Last Updated 2 months ago
Definition
A board with a reflective surface used to bounce light onto a subject or object. Commonly used with exterior shoots to bounce the light coming from the sun. You can purchase 5-in-1 bounce boards or make them from materials such as styrofoam. You can also use 6×6, 8×8, 12×12 & 20×20 bounces.
In filmmaking and photography, bounce boards are commonly employed outdoors to reflect sunlight or indoors to bounce artificial lighting creating a soft source. They are a versatile, low-cost tool for shaping light, ranging from small handheld discs to large professional frames.
How Bounce Boards Work
- Reflection: Light strikes the board and bounces onto the subject, creating a softer, more flattering source than direct light.
- Fill Light: Often used to reduce shadows on faces during interviews or exterior shoots.
- Diffusion (in multi-surface boards): Some bounce boards include translucent fabric to soften light instead of reflecting it.
Types of Bounce Boards
- 5-in-1 Reflectors: Collapsible discs with multiple surfaces (white, silver, gold, black, and diffusion).
- Foam Core / Styrofoam: Inexpensive DIY option, often white or black for bounce or negative fill.
- Professional Frames: Large bounces (6×6, 8×8, 12×12, 20×20) with fabric stretched over frames, used by grip and electric crews.
- Surface Variations:
- White: Soft, neutral reflection.
- Silver: Bright, sharp reflection with higher contrast.
- Gold: Warmer tones, mimicking sunset light.
- Black (negative fill): Absorbs light, adding contrast.
Common Uses
- Exterior Shoots: Redirecting sunlight to fill shadows on talent.
- Interviews: Providing soft fill light without additional fixtures.
- Product Photography: Enhancing highlights and reducing harsh contrast.
- Narrative Film: Large bounce frames mimic soft daylight through windows or skylights.
Advantages
- Lightweight, portable, and affordable.
- Doesn’t require power—ideal for remote or outdoor locations.
- Provides natural-looking fill that integrates seamlessly with existing light.
Why It Matters
Bounce boards are one of the most fundamental lighting tools in film and photography. From DIY foam core sheets to massive grip department frames, they give filmmakers precise control over shadows, tone, and atmosphere—without expensive gear or heavy power requirements.
Related Terms
- [Bounce Light] Light redirected off a surface to create a softer quality.
- [Diffusion] Material that scatters light, softening shadows.
- [Negative Fill] Using black surfaces to subtract light and increase contrast.