Overpowering the sun with strobe light: The Doorhof way!
Models : Nadine and Anastasia
Styling : Nadine and Anastasia
Photographer : Frank Doorhof
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Frank Dorhoof Overpowering the sun
I think it's worthwhile looking at exactly how this picture was made despite the power of full sun. One of Frank's obsessions is to shoot with the effect he wants and simply under any conditions. He's a great teacher. Let's look at the gear. It's really modest. He uses an Elinchrom Ranger. Here's the portable battery unit kit from B&H. The preferable version is asymmetric so one is not forced to divide the power between the two lights, (just one is provide in this kit).
Here's the Maxispot reflector. The kit comes with the especially efficient reflecting surface and the 3 grids. It's a bargain at ~ $174 if you can afford the Ranger itself, LOL!
The nice thing about these units is that they are very well made and reliable. The limitation is that, unlike Profoto, at least in the USA, extra ones aren't always available for rent.
I love the mood this methodology gives and especially the great rendering of the clouds without resorting to bracketed exposures. The Maxispot appears to be coming from the camera left at above head level. I'd guess about 4 meters away.
Now questions for you Frank.
- What grid if any did you use?
- How far away is the light and what's it's height and angle?
- Roughly how many what seconds are needed?
- Do you use a second light or any reflectors, barn doors or flags?
- Could you do this with a beauty dish with a grid?
Asher