Reflectors are a practical tool used in photography and video shooting. It can help reflect light, reduce shadows, give more even light and increase color, and more. In this post, We explore how to select a reflector for photography and present five of the best reflectors, detailing their advantages, prices, and more. Read on if you're searching for it!
How to Choose A Reflector for Photography?
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Select the Right Size and Shape
Size and shape play an enormous role in how effectively reflectors function. Larger reflectors, such as 42-inch ones, produce soft light diffusion for full-body portraits or group shots, while 20-inch reflectors offer focused lighting to highlight facial features or product details.
In shape, a round reflector works well for headshots, while a rectangular one, like a 24x36-inch model, is perfect for evenly illuminating a model during a fashion shoot. Reflectors with handles can be handy for outdoor shoots where precise positioning is necessary.
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Choose the Reflector Surface Wisely
Reflector surfaces determine the quality and tone of the light. A silver reflector, for instance, enhances contrast and brightness, making it ideal for a dramatic studio portrait. Gold surfaces add warmth, perfect for outdoor shoots at golden hour.
Imagine a scenario where a translucent reflector diffuses harsh sunlight for a bridal photo in a sunny park, creating soft shadows on the bride's face. If you want multiple colors of light to create different effects, a versatile 5-in-1 reflector kit can offer white, silver, gold, translucent, and black surfaces, enabling photographers to adjust the light for various creative effects seamlessly.
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Consider Portability and Usability
Portability and ease of use are critical, especially for location shoots. Reflectors that fold into compact sizes, like collapsible 5-in-1 kits, are easy to carry. Lightweight models ensure convenience without compromising functionality.
For example, during an outdoor shoot on a windy day, a 32-inch reflector with a built-in handle provides better control and stability. If working alone, a reflector with a stand or clamp allows you to position it precisely without an assistant, making it invaluable for capturing dynamic outdoor scenes.
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Match Your Budget and Purpose
Investing in the right reflector ensures quality and versatility. A beginner might opt for an affordable 5-in-1 reflector kit to experiment with different lighting styles. Professionals may prefer durable models with premium fabrics for long-term use.
For instance, a photographer shooting an indoor product session might find a budget-friendly white and silver reflector set sufficient for soft, balanced lighting. On the other hand, wedding photographers often choose high-end kits with multiple surfaces to adapt quickly to changing lighting conditions throughout the day.
5 Best Reflectors for Photography in 2025
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NEEWER 155 x 61cm Clamshell Light Reflector
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Price |
Dimensions |
Color |
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From $125.99 |
61” x 24” / 155 x 61cm |
Black, Silver, Gold, White |
If you specialize in portrait photography, the NEEWER Clamshell Light Reflector is probably the best reflector for you. It mimics the curvature of the human eye and can reflect crescent-shaped eyelight to make your model's eyes sparkle. Whether you use flash, monolight or natural sunlight, it can be suitable.
The NEEWER Clamshell Light Reflector is available on two surfaces, including silver and black, which bounce high-contrast light and are also able to reduce over-reflections, in addition to being equipped with a gold and white double-sided cover for additional lighting effects. When using it, you can easily adjust the angle by tilting it up and down to get the reflection angle you need for photography.
Reason to buy:
- Make the Eyes Pop with Arc-Shaped Design
- Adjustable Angles
- Multiple Light Colors
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NEEWER RF-80II 5-in-1 Light Reflector with Handle Grip
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Price |
Dimensions |
Color |
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From $19.99 |
22''/56cm |
Translucent, white, black, gold, silver |
For a wider variety of lighting effects, the NEEWER RF-80II 5-in-1 Light Reflector with Hand Grip offers five shades: white, black, translucent gold, and silver. Compared with other 5-in-1 reflectors, its unique dual grip design makes it easier for users to position it when shooting photography thus creating the ideal light conditions for each photographic scene.
The NEEWER RF-80II 5-in-1 Light Reflector can be folded up into a compact size for easy storage and transportation, making outdoor photography much simpler. Plus, its sturdy steel frame bends repeatedly without becoming deformed!
Reason to buy:
- Achieve Five Light Effects
- Dual-Handle Grips
- Collapsible & Easy to Carry
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NEEWER SF7575F Collapsible Photography Reflector
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Price |
Dimensions |
Color |
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From $119.99 |
30"x30"/75x75cm |
Translucent, white, silver |
The NEEWER SF7575F Collapsible Photography Reflector is a square reflector that can be used for a wide range of applications such as product, portrait, and wedding photography. Made of aluminum alloy, it is lightweight and durable and can be folded to fit in a handbag. It also has a quick-release mechanism that allows it to be opened quickly, making it suitable for photographers and bloggers who need to shoot outdoors.
The NEEWER SF7575F Collapsible Photography Reflector includes a translucent soft panel and reversible reflector cover to help smooth out the light source and improve illumination. Many photographers have commented that when using the silver/white reversible sleeve, it retains the original color temperature for a more natural skin tone.
Reason to buy:
- Collapsible Metal Frame
- Translucent Soft Lighting Panel& Reversible Reflector Cover
- 5/8" Baby Pin Stud Handles
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NEEWER 5x7ft Pop-out Lighting Reflector
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Price |
Dimensions |
Color |
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From $40.99 |
5x7FT / 1.5x2M |
White |
The NEEWER 5x7ft Pop-out Lighting Reflector should be a good choice if you need to full body portrait. It is an oval-shaped reflector that provides a more light reflection area to evenly illuminate the whole body. In addition, it is also suitable for filling light at a longer distance, which can make the photo more natural.
Although the NEEWER 5x7ft Pop-out Lighting Reflector is oval and has a large spread, it is foldable and lightweight. Therefore, it can help you even if you are going for outdoor photography or traveling photography.
Reason to buy:
- Soften and Diffuse Light in AMore Balanced Way
- Oval Shape for Greater Coverage
- Collapsible & Portable
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NEEWER Aluminum Parabolic Reflector
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Price |
Dimensions |
Color |
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$69.99 |
16''/41cm(Exterior Diameter of Beauty Dish) |
Silver |
The NEEWER Aluminum Parabolic Reflector distributes light to the focal point, giving images a wraparound contrast effect. Furthermore, it features a silver-colored coating on the inside that produces more contrast and presents more details. So, purchase this reflector if you want to add a dramatic effect to your photos.
For portrait photography, the NEEWER Aluminum Parabolic Reflector is a practical tool. It helps to create beautiful shadows and capture light, which serves to shape facial features and give you a satisfying look for your shots.
Reason to buy:
- Distribute Light towards AFocal Point
- Bowen Mount Design
- Silver Coating Inside Can Create More Contrast
Quick Comparison Table
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Model |
Price |
Dimensions |
Color |
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NEEWER Clamshell Light Reflector |
From $125.99 |
61” x 24” / 155 x 61cm |
Black, Silver, Gold, White |
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NEEWER RF-80II |
From $19.99 |
22''/56cm |
Translucent, white, black, gold, silver |
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NEEWER SF7575F |
From $119.99 |
30"x30"/75x75cm |
Translucent, white, silver |
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NEEWER Pop-out Lighting Reflector |
From $40.99 |
5x7FT / 1.5x2M |
White |
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NEEWER Aluminum Parabolic Reflector |
$69.99 |
16''/41cm(Exterior Diameter of Beauty Dish) |
Silver |
