Lighting / Learn by doing
Bounce Light explained simply
What is โBounce Lightโ?
Light redirected from a wall, ceiling or another surface before reaching the subject.
- 01Flash
- 02Neutral surface
- 03Subject
How do you use Bounce Light practically?
A small exercise
Bounce a suitable flash from a neutral wall and compare it with direct flash. Check shadow edges and colour.
- Make a starting version and keep it so you can compare fairly.
- Try the change in the exercise. Keep unrelated choices steady where the exercise allows.
- Compare the result at the size your viewer will actually see. Write down what changed and whether it helped.
How does Bounce Light solve a problem?
It can make a small flash behave like a larger source for a softer-looking result.
What can go wrong?
Coloured surfaces can add a cast. Dark or very high surfaces may absorb too much light.
How do you turn the idea into a useful solution?
Start with the specific problem in your image or brief, try the exercise, and keep the version that meets that need. If the result is worse, return to the starting version and change one choice at a time.
Quick check: can you explain the three ideas in the diagram?
Flash โ Neutral surface โ Subject. Explain how each relates to the exercise. Then compare the starting version with your result and choose the one that meets your brief.
Related video lesson
Portrait lighting โ Adorama
This related lesson gives wider context for the topic. Camera menus and software versions may differ from yours.
Loading the player connects to YouTube. You can also watch the lesson on YouTube.Keep exploring
Try the idea in a studio shoot
Planning a portrait or product session? Use the glossary with our practical shoot guides, then check the studio facilities and send your confirmed requirements with an availability enquiry.