ESSENTIAL STUDIO EQUIPMENT
These are some items of gear that few pro studios should be without
STROBES the cornerstone of most studios, these powerful flashes offer the spread and intensity of light needed for high-end or large-scale shoots. the standard layout is two lights either side of the subject, but a third unit is often used as a hair or rim light.
SOFTBOXES undiffused strobe light is harsh and unflattering, so a softbox will spread this further for a softer look. softboxes are often preferred over umbrellas, as the light is more directional. the larger the softbox, the softer the lighting.
SEAMLESS BACKGROUNDS the default background of choice, seamless white, black or coloured paper provides distraction-free backdrops and also allows easy selections and extractions in photoshop.
REFLECTORS the light from strobes often requires further shaping. For many portraits, adding a reflector under the subject’s face will lift shadows and complement complexion. A gold reflector will provide warmer light, better matching skin tone.
NEUTRAL EDITING LOCATION Accurate post-processing is important if image quality consistency is to be maintained. Many studioshot subjects greatly exhibit colour control errors, so editing in a non colour-biased area is key.
CALIBRATED MONITORS standardisation using monitor calibrators is a must in a professional working environment, as is regular re-calibration, to account for colour drift through time. once per month is an effective strategy.