By now people have realized the Platypod Max is a very "on the go" versatile tool. Attaching a ball head and camera makes it as rock solid as a tripod. But did you know, it's just as great in the studio? I've shown in a previous post how to attach an Avenger 5/8-Inch Stud so you can mount a large studio light and hide it in a small space behind your subject without getting it in the shot. This time I used the 3" spigot adapter from Platypod's Multi Accessory kit to attach the light to the Platypod; it's a standard lighting tool size and works … [Read more...] about Studio Tip: Use a Platypod to Hang a Hair Light
Studio Gear
How to Construct the Most Versatile Studio Gear: V-Flats
Flats are large rectangles of lightweight foam core. Theater set designers use them to create background scenery. Their lightweight design makes them easy to move around sets to be used as backgrounds, flagging light and as reflectors. Hinging two flats together—creating a letter V—creates what is know as a V-flat. Here’s how to construct your own V-flat. Different Size V-Flats You can build any size V-flat to meet your needs. A product photographer may not need an eight foot tall V-flat as much as a portrait photographer would. Building a … [Read more...] about How to Construct the Most Versatile Studio Gear: V-Flats
Studio Tip: The Benefits of an Extension Arm
An extension arm is a versatile piece of studio gear. You can use it to hold a studio strobe, clip a flag or hang a background. Connecting the Pieces The extension arm comes with a knuckle or grip head attached to one end. Slide the extension arm rod through a grip head that’s attached to a light or C-Stand.Tighten the grip head. Using a pin, attach the studio strobe to the extension arm. Make sure you mount the light on the right side of the knuckle, then if the knuckle becomes loose, the weight of the strobe should … [Read more...] about Studio Tip: The Benefits of an Extension Arm
Studio Tips: Gaffers Tape is the Photographer’s Duct Tape
Gaffers tape—also known as gaff tape—is a heavy cotton cloth, pressure-sensitive tape with strong adhesive properties. Sounds a lot like Duct Tape, but the two are different—especially when it comes to photography. Main differences between Gaffers Tape and Duct Tape Gaffers Tape is designed to be removable—especially important when you can’t damage the surface beneath the tape. It can easily be torn by hand, it’s water resistant and able to resist high heat temperatures—making it ideal for securing cables and props that are exposed to the … [Read more...] about Studio Tips: Gaffers Tape is the Photographer’s Duct Tape
In The Photography Studio – Securing a Radio Trigger
Radio triggers—like a Pocket Wizard or Yongnuo—wirelessly fires a studio strobe or a speedlight off camera. Here’s how to secure the trigger so it won’t come crashing down when you move the light. Wrapping the Trigger Instead of letting the trigger dangle from a knuckle or from a knob, wrap the lanyard around the arm and slip the trigger through. This will secure the trigger and it won’t fall if you need to move the light. Think Tank Red Whips If your radio triggers don’t have a lanyard, use Think Tank’s Red Whips. They will secure … [Read more...] about In The Photography Studio – Securing a Radio Trigger
