The Simplest Trick for Great Lighting — Bounce Boards Explained

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DIY Bounce Board — We take a look at one of the easiest ways to create professional and deliberate lighting in your cinematography or photography.

What is Bounce Light? ►►
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Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction to Bounce Boards
00:42 - What is a Bounce Board?
01:21 - Using Bounce as Fill
02:49 - Types of Bounce Boards
04:43 - DIY Bounce Boards
06:23 - Takeaways

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CINEMATIC LIGHTING TECHNIQUES

When we think of great, cinematic lighting, we often think of elaborate set ups with massive lights and a huge crew. Some great lighting requires a lot of equipment, but not all. With a bounce board, you can use existing light to your advantage at a minuscule cost. In this video, we look at what a bounce board is, why it's used, and how you can use it on your next set.

WHAT IS A BOUNCE BOARD IN FILM

A bounce board, also known as a reflector, is a flat, firm surface used to redirect light. By bouncing and diffusing existing light, it provides control without the need for additional sources. This makes it an invaluable tool for enhancing natural light and creating balanced visuals.

WHY TO USE A BOUNCE BOARD ON SET

Bounce boards are extremely effective at producing soft, even lighting. The larger the board, the softer the effect, making it ideal for reducing harsh contrasts and lightening shadows on a subject. They're especially valuable in outdoor settings, where sunlight can be unpredictable, and in tight spaces where additional lighting equipment might be impractical.

A common application is in booklighting, a technique where light is bounced off a surface and then diffused further, creating a soft glow.

TYPES OF REFLECTORS OR BOUNCE BOARDS

Different types of bounce boards offer varied effects, each suited to specific needs. White bounce boards are the most common, providing soft, neutral light that doesn’t alter the color temperature. Silver bounce boards are more reflective, creating brighter, cooler light that works well in low-light conditions. Gold bounce boards add a warm tone, which is ideal for matching tungsten lights or enhancing golden-hour scenes.

Sunlight reflectors, which combine silver and gold, balance brightness and warmth. Black bounce boards serve as “negative fill,” removing light to create deeper shadows and stronger contrast. In a pinch, walls, ceilings, or foam boards can act as bounce surfaces, while collapsible reflectors offer a portable alternative, though they are less durable in windy conditions.

HOW TO USE A BOUNCE BOARD

To use a bounce board effectively, start with a simple setup, such as foam core or rigid insulation board reinforced with tape for durability. Typically, 4'x4' boards are mounted on C-stands with duckbill clamps or held by a crew member.

Proper placement is key: test by moving the board in and out of the light, adjusting the angle to maximize reflection. Whether handheld or mounted, maintaining consistent positioning ensures your subject is evenly lit. With practice, a bounce board can transform your lighting setup, providing high-quality results at minimal cost.


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