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Group Shots Question On Backlighting

rollsman44

Well-known member
When going to peoples homes what is the Best way to give good separation when shooting groups say from 5-12 people.
Q #1- If there is not enough room behind them, say 3-4 feet from the wall what the best way to use back light or aim the light at the back of the group and High up ???
Q # 2- If there is more than 5 feet from the wall whats the best way to show good separation without causing any shadows or any other problems that can occur.

Thank you
 

Frankly

New member
Best option is to use color ~ pick the wall to contrast their clothes, ask them to wear all warm colors with simple patterns (or solids) that will contrast the cool backgrounds (remember warm colors come forward and cools recede).

Rather than using hair lights (that you can’t aim) and corny 50s techniques just put a light on the floor behind the people and light the wall with a wash, use a gobo to control it and do a lot of test shots.

Put the pale blondes furthest from the main light and put the dark complexions closest.

Avoid bricks and dark wood unless you have time and money to test.
 
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