DIY Reflector - Super Cheap Method

[Daylon]

Okay, finally put it together.

Here's what I used:

Duct tape: $2
Foam Core: Free (thanks to David Whatley!)
Dura Spray Adhesive: $4
Space Blanket: $2 (an excellent suggestion by dquarles - thanks Donna!)
Screen Frame: Free

Okay, here was my thinking. Foam core is pretty flimsy and I wanted something I could put in my car fairly easily and take to location shoots. I was worried about snapping or bending the foam core in a moderate wind, so was thinking about doubling it up or putting some sort of stiffener in the back. Well, poking around the garage I came across an old screen that the dog had torn, and had an idea.

I cut out the screen, keeping the aluminum frame. It's roughly 36x36. I then cut a piece of foam core to go inside the frame, and the convenient thing about using a screen frame is that it already has a little "lip" you can seat the foam core on. I taped it in with duct tape around the edges, and then liberally applied the spray adhesive. Gave it about 5 min to dry, then set the crinkled up space blanket on top, smoothing it out as best I could. The space blanket is much tougher than aluminum (tear resistant). Just be sure to wad it up, smooth it out, wad it up, etc several times for maximum "crinkly-ness". After laying on the space blanket I trimmed the edges leaving about a half-inch. Then one more strip of duct tape along the edge to lock down the space blanket. I also added some extra duct tape at the corners to protect the space blanket from rubbing a hole from use and starting a tear.

I'm satisfied with the results, I now have a 3x3 reflector with conveniently located duct tape handles. The aluminum frame gives it a LOT more stability while keeping it lightweight. Another added benefit is that you an use fairly heavy clamps on the aluminum to keep it in place without damaging it.

I have a shoot this weekend (lil kid in the bluebonnets) that I plan to use it with, so I'll post the results afterwards.

Next step is probably one or two 3x4's for use indoors

It looks a little ghetto fabulous, but it's sturdy and stiff, and should be able to take some punishment out in the field. Plus if it gets destroyed I'm only out about $2 (the cost of the space blanket. I've got enough duct tape, foam core, and adhesive to put together 3-4 more...)

[Breezy]

what a neat idea.
You can do anything with ducttape :D

[Wes]

MacGyver ain't got nuttin' on a photographer who's determined to save money.

Pretty cool setup!

[engstrom]

Daylon, I love it. Be sure to let us know how it works in your shoot! I may have to get a space blanket and do the same thing.

[David Whatley]

Daylon, you will be amazed at the strength of the foam fore. Try to bend a piece. I like th ewindo screen frame idea

[Davidtxs]

nice idea, so theres a window somewhere without a screen lol

[Arnor]

You can buy the screen frame stuff from any hardware store to make up any shape/size you want. Use glue for the corners to add strength if needed:)

Best regards,

[Wendyp]

I have a friend who uses foam board for reflectors. He buys the large pieces at office stores than uses regular aluminum foil for one side, held in place around the edges with black tape. The other side remains white for the times that white is needed. He probably shoots half of his stuff this way, clamping them to stands when needed, laying them on the ground in front of a seated subject, et.