How Do Modifiers Work? 4 Light Accessories For Your Studio Photos

If photography is synonymous with painting, consider light as your brush. Depending on the artistic vision, environmental, and available light, one might use modifiers to add or shape light or reduce glare."

As a professional photographer, my work dramatically improved once I understood the value of 'modifiers.' Now it's your turn. Below I break down my favorite tools to help you take your photography to the next level.

The right gear can help expand your mind and get those artistic juices flowing. If you're interested in effectively using modifiers and discovering other ways to elevate your work, check out my Moment class, Intro to Studio Photography.

Umbrellas

Have you ever taken a strobe or continuous light and just placed it on a subject? Close up, you gain an intense light, but you get the shape of the orb on the subject's face. It achieves a more professional, flattering look.

Enter the umbrella.

With an umbrella, we can illuminate the surface to the distance of the shine and spread it more evenly across your subject's face.

I recommend the Profoto deep white umbrella.

When choosing the right umbrella, remember that the more profound the shape, the bigger the light source. I love the depth of this product in particular because it guarantees softer vibrancy with its wider distance. It's the perfect addition to your toolbox.

Reflectors

Reflectors are the best method to acquire the strength of a naked bulb without conveying its aggressive outer shape. These are what you'll have to shape your light.

I can't recommend the Profoto OCF Magnum Reflector enough.

You can raise the OCF magnum high to create a fun spotlight effect or use it to slide in grids or gels (more on that soon).

After the umbrella, it's the essential piece of a studio photo set if you're curious about why I talk a bit more about this in my Moment class - Intro to Studio Photography.

Gels and Grids

You got into photography to have fun and to express yourself. So let's talk about color.

Color holds immense power; it entirely alters the feeling of an image from cheery to dreary to intense.

The Profoto Clic Grid & Gel Kit is lovely because it allows you to add the feeling of summer to any photograph you have. (I know we all love editing, but adding a gel to your photos while taking them can help you make decisions and ensure you're making the best images possible.)

Relatedly, grids like the Profoto Clic Grid are all about adding drama. By controlling light spills on the edges, you get a directed light that is a touch less intense than a naked bulb. Creating a monologue or soliloquy effect, use this when drama is welcome.

Every recommendation is essential to my work, and I hope you'll consider my guidance when deciding what to buy for your next photoshoot.

If you're interested in learning more about lights, color, and the use of modifiers to elevate your work, check out my Moment class, Intro to Studio Photography.