What size Reflector is better 60 cm or 80 cm or even larger?

[KWM]

Hi,
After reading the initial few lessons of School of portraiture thread, I want to buy a reflector and grey card.
My question is which one is better in terms of function the 60 cm size (diameter) or 80 cm or even larger? There are also some oval shape available.

Thanks

[Dave Humphries]

Whatever size you get, you'll find it is too big sometimes and too small others, I suspect most folks have a range of sizes.
If we're talking about the fold up sort, they're not that expensive.

What size you need depends on many factors;
single subject?
couple?
group?
headshot?
torso?
full length?

The further it is from the subject, the larger it will likely need to be, it'll have to be further back for full length than a headshot.

Shape?
If used in front of a back sun lit subject (and no flash), I'd suggest round - to give circular catch lights.
If trying to throw light back toward a group of people or a couple for full length, then a larger oval might be better.

Hope that rushed reply is helpful Tayyeb.
I think I have: a 1.8 m oval, a 80 cm circular, plus a 30 cm circular.
They are all the '5 in 1' variety; so I can use black, white, silver or gold, plus the inner white surface as a diffuser when needed.

White is perhaps generically most suited to female subjects, silver for male.
If you're reflecting sunlight back towards your subjects, only white is wise and even that may be too bright where you are!
In a studio, you have the other options.

Cheers, Dave

[KWM]

Hi Dave
Thanks for the feedback and it looks like the circular one is what I need.

[Manfred M]

Tayyeb - I own a couple of circular reflectors as well as a rectangular one with rounded corners.

The size is quite dependent on your subject; I think my smallest one is about 80cm. As a general rule, you need ensure it is large enough to cast light on your subject. Reflectors are often positioned just out of frame, so need to be large enough to illuminate your subject. A 80cm reflector is probably file for a head and chest shot.