How do I reduce blown highlights on a glossy mannequin in product photography?
Asked 3/16/2016
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I'm new to product photography and seeing a bright blown highlight on one hand of a mannequin. My setup uses two softboxes. What causes this kind of hotspot, and how can I reduce it without ruining the overall lighting?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
10y ago
2 Answers
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As can be seen, this is a direct reflection of the flash, it basically renders the image of the softbox distorted by the surface of the mannequin on the hand.
- First of all you have to think about whether this is something bad or not. It might give shape to the mannequin if applied correctly.
- You can get the softboxes closer. This will make the light softer but spread out the direct reflection. Take care that due to the 1/r^2 the light on tha background will dramatically decrease. This can be overcome by a third light for example.
- You could tilt the hand so that there is no direct reflection anymore if you do not want to change the lighting setup.
- Diffuse the light on the mannequin on the spot of interest by adding a light diffusing coating, i.e. something that creates a rough surface. Try things you have around, hairspray might help, but might make things worse.
I am not a product photographer, though, these are just some ideas that came to mind.
Originally by user45637. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user45637
10y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
The hotspot is most likely a specular reflection: the glossy mannequin is reflecting the softbox directly into the camera, so you’re effectively seeing a distorted image of the light source on the hand.
This is normal with shiny plastic surfaces. Whether it’s a problem depends on the look you want—some highlight can help define shape.
To reduce it, try:
- moving the softboxes closer so the light becomes softer and the reflection spreads out more
- changing the mannequin hand angle or your light position so the reflection no longer bounces straight at the camera
- adding diffusion or a dulling coating to make the surface less glossy
- if needed, retouching the hotspot afterward
Be aware that moving lights closer can darken the background relative to the subject, so you may need separate background lighting.
If you want a truly matte look, the mannequin surface itself may need to be repainted or otherwise made less reflective.
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