Problems with white backdrops

[FlyTVR]

Hi all.

I'm using 3 flash heads, main, filler and one dedicated to over exposing the background. Background is just a simple cloth with wrinkles.

I've not had loads of time to try and sort out the problem e.g iron the backdrop etc, but I was wondering if I simply need to buy a better quality backdrop. Using the 3rd light on the backdrop, the resultant shot does have a white (and not grey) appearance but some of the wrinkles are still visible.

I don't want the hassle of having to remove in photoshop. Any advice please?

 

[wack61]

try moving the model further from the background, 5 or 6 feet if possible

 

[FlyTVR]

try moving the model further from the background, 5 or 6 feet if possible

I've tried that. I've even opened up the aperture as far as I can before over exposing the subject. Still picks up small creases

 

[BigGreenMonster]

Last time i tried this, I needed two flashes on the background, so only having three heads, used the reflector for the filler.

 

[FlyTVR]

Last time i tried this, I needed two flashes on the background, so only having three heads, used the reflector for the filler.

Hmmmm - now that makes sense. Will try that - in addition to getting the iron out! I will try that thanks.

 

[Merovingian]

I was wondering if I simply need to buy a better quality backdrop.

Unlikely. I've tried allsorts from cloth to vinyl to paper, all with the same crease bane afflicting you.
I've heard spraying it with water moist could help.
Try all of the above combined - it might solve it.

 

[paul_g]

I find a good quality paper roll works pretty well with only one light so long as you stick to a 1/2 width roll but, in my experience it becomes a trade off between the cost of another light or photoshopping time if you use a full width backdrop.

 

[EdBray]

If you are in a position where you can leave it up overnight (or longer) the best thing to use to get rid of the creases is a wallpaper steamer. Use the steamer over the full background a bit at a time and then just let it hang to dry.

Lighting will be better balanced if directed from both side as each will cancel out the shadows created by the other, although if you have to use only one try to light the background from overhead (on a boom) or below (behind the model).

 

[philthejuggler]

I think a quality background which is crease-free is helpful, but I have two flashes on the background to get enough light to completely make it white-out.

You want your background 1.5 to 2 stops brighter than the foreground & when you meter off the back of the subjects head you should get a reading the same as the main exposure.

Example, main exposure f8, background reading f13, reading off back of subject's head f8.

Too high on the back of the subjects head will ruin the shots with too much 'wrap' - light leaking around the edge of the subject from the background.

It's explained clearly (although I don't like his writing style) here: http://www.zarias.com/?p=77

Hope this helps,

Phil