What Are Polyboards And Why Are They Useful In Photography?
June 5, 2023We recently added some black and white polyboards to our photography studio in Hemel Hempstead so we thought we would create a blog post explaining what poly boards are, why they are so useful for photographers and how they can elevate the quality of your images.
What are polyboards?
Polyboards are lightweight, rigid panels typically made of foam or polystyrene used in photography as light modifiers to reflect light and/ or create shadows. These boards come in various sizes, offering photographers a wide range of options to manipulate light during a photoshoot. Most photography studios use black and white poly boards to block light and bounce light. (Black side to block and white side to reflect or bounce light back onto the subject.)
Harnessing Light:
Controlling and manipulating light is crucial in photography. Polyboards can bounce natural or artificial light onto the subject, reducing harsh shadows and creating a flattering, well-lit image.
Cheap:
Polyboards are relatively cheap to buy/make and are a great option if you’re looking for an inexpensive light modifier. When you buy them, they normally arrive bright white on both sides so the first step is to paint one side black.
Portability and Convenience:
Polyboards are really portable and lightweight, making them ideal to easily move around a photography studio. The lightweight design allows for quick and efficient adjustments during a shoot, enabling photographers to achieve precise lighting control without being weighed down by heavy equipment.
Conclusion:
Polyboards have emerged as an essential tool for photographers, allowing them to control and shape light to their creative advantage. Whether it’s reducing shadows or softening light, polyboards offer endless possibilities for enhancing photos. By understanding the power of polyboards, photographers can unlock their full creative potential and capture stunning images that leave a lasting impression.