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How do you make the edges like this in a picture?

How do I brighten the center of the backdrop to make it look like a spot light?

  • I know when you are shooting a studio picture you need the studio lights to light the background and you spot meter to make sure it is the same aperture so the background will come out even. I also know if you do not want the center to be lit evenly and to look brighter or darker, the center of the backdrop has to be one full f-stop higher or lower than the edges. What I want to know is, how do you position the lights to achieve that, like what angles, distances, and wattage do they have to be?

  • Answer:

    Typically a backlight stand is used behind the subject. The light mounts on the stand aimed directly up onto the background. A relatively low power light can be used. The subject blocks the actual light from view and / or the light is mounted low enough that if shooting a head and shoulder shot, the low stand and light will not be in the photo. This is the simplest, most effective way to light the background behind your model. Here is an example of a backlight stand: http://www.paulcbuff.com/ls1100.php steve

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Use a focusing spot attachment... At a pinch you could use a snoot close to the backdrop behind the model.

bluespeedbird

Snoot is your best answer. I occasionally use a home made one (rolled up blackout paper). There is no set wattage, rather use whatever wattage you have and base your distance on that. While you can pull out a slide rule and calculate the actual numbers, it's much quicker and easier with today's digital cameras to just do some test shots and move the snoot around to get the effect you want. As for angle, that depends on the look you want, how much room you have to work around the model, and the shape of the snoot. By the way, I use 'snoot' as an example. You may want to use barn doors or other means. But honestly, this is one area where playing with test shots will teach you a lot. Good luck.

VrodKaraf

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