Photography umbrellas
are very portable.
Lighting umbrellas are a relatively inexpensive, portable way for photographers to control the lighting in their photographs. They come in several types, and are commonly used in portrait photography.
Types
The classic lighting umbrella is constructed like an ordinary umbrella, but has a reflective inner lining--usually silver-colored--to diffuse a light source. Translucent white umbrellas are also available--these can either reflect the light source or allow some of the light to pass through them.
Uses
Umbrellas are normally used to soften the light from an off-camera flash, reducing its harshness. Moving the umbrella closer to the source can amplify the source and narrow its focus, while moving the away decreases light intensity and widens focus.
Cost
Photography umbrellas can be used for many of the same purposes as photography light boxes, but cost significantly less. A light box can be several times more costly than a similar-sized umbrella. Umbrellas are often less durable than light boxes, however.
Tags: light boxes, light source, Photography umbrellas
