How to Make a Flash Reflector for Macro Photography

Re-appropriate a 1⁄2 gallon (1.9 L) jug from the recycle bin., Cut a side from the jug., Trim it down to the size that you want it., Apply some type of glue or double-sided tape to the inside of the jug., Apply your reflective surface., Smooth the...

9 Steps 1 min read Medium

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Step 1: Re-appropriate a 1⁄2 gallon (1.9 L) jug from the recycle bin.

    Be sure that it has been rinsed out pretty well.
  2. Step 2: Cut a side from the jug.

    You want it to be bigger than its final shape so that you can trim it down.

    Be sure that the corners are included in the cut. , You want it to be able to be fastened to your flash and extend well past it.

    The actual length of a milk jug is about right. , (What would be the inside of the container.) , This can be:
    Mylar from wrapping paper Mylar gift balloons Inside of a dry food bag Aluminum foil , You can use pretty much whatever type of tape you have that you believe is sturdy enough.

    Chrome tape is recommended.

    Any kind of colored tape can reflect in shiny objects that are photographed. , A rubber band would probably work best, but use what you have. , This can be adapted for your purposes. ,
  3. Step 3: Trim it down to the size that you want it.

  4. Step 4: Apply some type of glue or double-sided tape to the inside of the jug.

  5. Step 5: Apply your reflective surface.

  6. Step 6: Smooth the edges with tape.

  7. Step 7: Fasten it to your flash.

  8. Step 8: Fasten the flash to your camera and have it bent to 90 degrees.

  9. Step 9: Finished.

Detailed Guide

Be sure that it has been rinsed out pretty well.

You want it to be bigger than its final shape so that you can trim it down.

Be sure that the corners are included in the cut. , You want it to be able to be fastened to your flash and extend well past it.

The actual length of a milk jug is about right. , (What would be the inside of the container.) , This can be:
Mylar from wrapping paper Mylar gift balloons Inside of a dry food bag Aluminum foil , You can use pretty much whatever type of tape you have that you believe is sturdy enough.

Chrome tape is recommended.

Any kind of colored tape can reflect in shiny objects that are photographed. , A rubber band would probably work best, but use what you have. , This can be adapted for your purposes. ,

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C

Catherine James

Dedicated to helping readers learn new skills in organization and beyond.

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