DIY Umbrella Light
An umbrella light is commonly used in photography to create soft light on subjects. This lighting device diffuses light by bouncing the main light source off the reflective surface on the inside of the umbrella. This allows the subject to be illuminated without harsh lighting effects or dramatic shadows. Making your own umbrella light can be easily done with a standard umbrella and inexpensive materials.
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Instructions
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Purchase two small collapsible umbrellas. The size of the umbrella is not of great importance; however, larger umbrellas can be difficult to transport. Buy one can of gold spray paint and one can of silver spray paint. Make sure you purchase paint that has been designed to be used on fabrics to prevent cracking.
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Move this equipment outside and place several sheets of newspaper on the ground to prevent staining the grass or pavement. Open the first umbrella and place it upside down on the ground (so the underside of the umbrella is facing toward the sky).
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Spray the gold paint onto the underside of the umbrella. After you have covered the umbrella with an even coating wait 10 minutes before spraying another coating. Repeat this process until you have five coats of paint on the umbrella.
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Place the second umbrella on the ground in the same position as the first and spray the underside with the silver paint. Wait 10 minutes before applying a second coating and continue until the second umbrella has five coats of paint.
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Allow the paint to dry for three hours before testing the reflective quality of the umbrella. Have a friend hold the umbrella and point a photography-grade light at the painted side of the umbrella. The gold umbrella should reflect a warm glow while the silver umbrella should reflect cooler (or whiter) light. If you find the reflection is not strong enough apply two more coats of paint and repeat the testing process.
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Tips & Warnings
Use a metallic based paint for best results.
Never spray paint indoors as the fumes from the paint are toxic and can cause respiratory complications if inhaled.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit strobe umbrella image by jimcox40 from Fotolia.com
