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How do you make a reflector for photography?

Could you also explain how to use and what type to use? I am taking a photography class right now and the instructor well is not that great. He showed us a demonstration about taking a portrait with and without a reflector . . .but never really explained how to use it. Also we have an assignment due next week where we have to demonstrate this. Since i have already spent a fortune on this class I am not buying a reflector, so I would like to make one. Help please!!

Do not fear!!! So much of what we use as photographers can be homemade without losing any overall quality in the image. Reflectors are really easy too, so you will be fine by next week for class with little out of pocket expense-or time to put it together. Ok, here's what I say about reflectors: The overall purpose of the reflector is to reflect light back onto your subject, usually to fill the shadows of the subject with light, especially if shooting outdoors. It can also be the main light if the subject is in a complete shadow. Reflectors can be any size from a small hand-held size to large panels > 6ft each-it just all depends on what you need. The most important thing to consider when using a reflector is the quality of light you want to reflect back onto subject. If you want hard light reflected, use a smooth, shiny surface and likewise if you want to reflect a softer light onto the subject, go with a dull or matte surface for the reflector, for example aluminum foil or white poster board. It will also help if the reflector's surface is not smooth, like crumpled foil, to disperse more of the reflected light. All the reflector is doing is reflecting light waves, so it will bend them and shoot them back towards the subject, this is why the material of the reflector is important. So remember that the less shiny and smooth the reflector's surface is, the softer and more diffused the reflected light will be. Can use different reflectors to cast different colors of light. For example, one of my favorites is the shiny gold reflector that makes any image look like it was taken during sunset. It reflects a beautiful golden tone. You can make a reflector from cardboard cut into shape and covered with the appropriate type of surface, example aluminum foil. Can also use those car dashboard covers that you stick in windshield to protect your car from sun damage as a reflector. Those sturdy, thick pieces of white, black, really any color poster board make for good reflectors to. For intense light reflection that is bright, use a mirror in any shape or size. You can also purchase a double-sided reflector that can be folded up and stored in carrying case for not too much-check amazon. These are nice because they usually have different colors on each side so it's like two for the price of one. Hope this helps and good luck!

How to Make a Cheap Light Reflector

Ex-Pro 5 -in- 1 Photographic Light Reflector - 32 (80cm) Silver, Gold, Black, White & Translucent, Collapsible. £13.97 Whatever your needs, the reflector will add vibrant colour a clarity to your subject with the Ex-Pro 5 - in - 1 Package including 5 different side reflectors, Silver, Gold, Black, White & Translucent plus a pouch for storage, the unit collapses away to less than 50% of the diameter for easy storage or portability. Silver increases the spectacular highlights and yields a high-contrast image. It's p...

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