Using a speed light for backdrop lighting

Andy W

Senior Member
The rectangular pattern of a speedlight when used for a backdrop light doesn't look good, and the edges with the AD200 and a round reflector were too sharp. I got a 7" reflector with 20, 40 & 60 degree honeycomb grids to fit the Bowens type S mount. The V860ii was set to 24mm to avoid the rectangular shape. The light was up on a stand for these test shots about 8' from the backdrop.

20 degree:

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40 degree:

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60 degree:

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A board to set on the floor behind the subject:

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With 40 degree grid:

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Dangerspouse

Senior Member
That looks GREAT, Andy.

Just out of curiosity, could you post a pic of the light pattern your speedlight gives? I'd be very curious to see the contrast. And if you have any modifiers that you attach, it would be neat to see what difference they make, if any.

Either way, have fun with the new gear. That portrait really looks stunning!
 

Andy W

Senior Member
That looks GREAT, Andy.

Just out of curiosity, could you post a pic of the light pattern your speedlight gives? I'd be very curious to see the contrast. And if you have any modifiers that you attach, it would be neat to see what difference they make, if any.

Either way, have fun with the new gear. That portrait really looks stunning!

Thanks! So far the only modifier for the speedlights is the 7" reflector and grids. Below are samples of the V860ii at 1/2 power taken about 8" from the backdrop.


Speedlight set to 24mm

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80mm

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105mm

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200mm

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Dangerspouse

Senior Member
Man, that really is some kinda different, isn't it. Pretty amazing. Hey Andy, thanks for doing that for me. It was very nice of you. Or maybe very evil of you, as I can't afford one but now I'm thinking about it....

Seriously though, thanks very much :encouragement:

edit: I assume you meant 8 feet, not 8 inches, right? Or were you shooting through a fish-eye?
 
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