Copyright Tamara Lackey

Guest Post by Tamara Lackey

In my last post, I explained why using a fill light, or a reflective light source, is so important for my style of photography. I find that, most of the time, a reflector will often do the trick for me when Im shooting on-location.

But the whole game can change if Im hit with a triple whammy of …

a) multiple fast-moving subjects especially when theyre moving in different directions

b) a trek-out-to location (not just a nature reserve – but sometimes the ten or so blocks away from where you barely found parking downtown!)

and

c) the Great Reflector Enemy we all know and struggle with: Wind.

In cases like these, I suggest you use your surroundings to your advantage.

  1. If Im in an urban setting, Ill shoot near light concrete vs. dark asphalt, bring my subjects low and let the light surface bounce light back up into my subjects faces.

  2. If Im at the beach, Ill bring my subjects to the shoreline and use the additional reflection from the light water pooling on the edge of the waves.

  3. If Im shooting a single subject, Ill use a standard white piece of heartier artboard.

  4. And, if all else fails, Ill wear white: a white shirt or even a pair of white pants.

Ill stand close, Ill shoot wide, and Ill so totally be the best fill I can be.