A really dumb question on umbrellas at DVinfo.net

Brian Andrews · October 26th, 2005, 02:24 PM

I have an umbrella that can go in front of a 300W Britek. When using umbrellas are you supposed to point the light at the actor, so that the light is diffused thru the umbrella? Or do you point the light the opposite direction, away from the actor, so that the light is bounced off the umbrella back towards the actor?

Thanks.

Jean-Francois Robichaud · October 26th, 2005, 02:55 PM

Well, generally, an umbrella is used as a reflector. The one I use is double layered; the opaque, outer layer can be removed and the umbrella becomes a diffuser instead.

Marco Leavitt · October 26th, 2005, 04:37 PM

I use the diffused method. It seems to be a little softer than reflecting. They're designed to be used either way though, so pick your poison.

October 26th, 2005, 02:24 PM	#1
Brian Andrews Regular Crew Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: New Jersey Posts: 69	A really dumb question on umbrellas I have an umbrella that can go in front of a 300W Britek. When using umbrellas are you supposed to point the light at the actor, so that the light is diffused thru the umbrella? Or do you point the light the opposite direction, away from the actor, so that the light is bounced off the umbrella back towards the actor? Thanks.

October 26th, 2005, 02:55 PM	#2
Jean-Francois Robichaud Regular Crew Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Montreal, Canada Posts: 142	Well, generally, an umbrella is used as a reflector. The one I use is double layered; the opaque, outer layer can be removed and the umbrella becomes a diffuser instead.

October 26th, 2005, 04:37 PM	#3
Marco Leavitt Inner Circle Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: Albany, NY 12210 Posts: 2,652	I use the diffused method. It seems to be a little softer than reflecting. They're designed to be used either way though, so pick your poison.