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zogg
Newbie
United Kingdom
2 Posts |
 Posted - 08/09/2005 : 13:30:08
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Hi,
Even though I have been doing photography for years, its always been outside (scenery, cars, portraits & aviation).
IC am keen to try studio photography but can only do it at home in the lounge for the moment because of financial constraints.
I have a Lastolite reversible backgound and train, Portaflash tripod studio 336VM flashes and digital light meter.
I realise there will be many questions on this bottomless pit of a subject, and I am borrowing books etc.
Just to get me started though, When I use the studio flash, is it best to leave the normal room lighting off?
Also, regards the meter, I cant see where you set the shutter speed being used or the film speed rating, is this not important?
Many thanks |
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rbarker
Moderator
USA
3295 Posts |
Posted - 08/09/2005 : 14:39:31
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With electronic flash, the duration of the exposure (effective shutter speed) is really determined by the duration of the flash. Flash duration can vary from around 1/300 sec to as little as 1/10,000 sec, depending on the flash unit. Shutter speed is a matter of making sure that the camera syncs properly (doesn't give a partial exposure if using a curtain shutter) and helps control the amount of ambient light contribution to the overall exposure. Thus, the aperture is the primary exposure control when using flash.
Depending on what you are shooting, you may find that minimizing the level of ambient light in the room gives you better control. Turning the lights off when shooting people doesn't work well, however.
Also, make sure that your meter actually reads electronic flash. Most will have a separate mode for this, and will measure both the flash and the ambient contribution.
(edited to correct fraction) |
Edited by - rbarker on 09/09/2005 13:21:15 |
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daveblaw
Needs a life...
184 Posts |
Posted - 09/09/2005 : 13:01:58
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You might want to get hold of a (paperbound) book put out by Kodak on portraiture (I think it's called "The Portrait.) There is much useful information on studio setup in there, including a chart which relates the depth of the camera room to the format of your camera and focal length of various lenses.
Good shooting.
/s/ David
Memories Preserved Photography, LLC
"making tomorrow's memories by capturing today's happiness" (R)
photo@worldnetoh.com |
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rbarker
Moderator
USA
3295 Posts |
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zogg
Newbie
United Kingdom
2 Posts |
Posted - 13/09/2005 : 11:41:43
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Thanks for the quick response guys, have taken the advice on board and trying to put into practice!
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Edited by - zogg on 13/09/2005 11:42:10 |
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Topic |
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Newbie home studio advice
