Which outdoor lighting tool is commonly used to bounce sunlight onto a subject?

• A. Flag
• B. Reflector
• C. Scrim
• D. Diffuser

Answer: (B)

When working with natural sunlight, redirecting light toward the subject is a common technique to soften shadows and add fill. A reflector is a versatile surface that catches sunlight and bounces it back onto the subject, creating a more even, flattering light. By choosing different finishes, you can adjust the feel: white for a gentle fill, silver for a brighter, crisper bounce, or gold to add a warm undertone. To use it effectively, place the reflector near the subject at about a 45-degree angle to bounce sunlight into the face, which helps reveal more detail and produce natural-looking catchlights. Larger reflectors give a softer, more diffuse fill, while smaller ones produce stronger, more directional light.

A flag is used to block or shape light, not bounce it. A scrim or diffuser sits between the sun and subject to reduce intensity and soften the light by spreading it, rather than redirecting it.