What is the purpose of a reflector in digital video production?

• A. To bounce light onto the subject for fill lighting
• B. To diffuse light with fabric
• C. To measure light levels on set
• D. To block sunlight

Answer: (A)

A reflector is used to bounce existing light onto the subject, creating fill lighting that softens shadows and reduces contrast. By catching light from a key light or the sun and redirecting it toward the subject, you can brighten the shadowed side without adding another light or more power. Surface color matters: white gives neutral fill, silver increases brightness with a cooler highlight, and gold adds a warm glow. This makes reflectors a portable, quick way to shape a scene, especially outdoors or in tight spaces. Diffusers spread or soften light by transmission, rather than bouncing it, so they serve a different purpose; a light meter is used to measure light levels, and blocking light is done with flags or black materials, not with a reflective surface.