We set up our fill reflector to catch the light from our main light and give us a nice smooth reflection on the front of the breadbox (figure 1).

Because our reflector was twisted like a potato chip, our reflection was light in some areas and dark in others. The dark areas are due to the areas in the reflector bouncing light away from the subject instead of toward it (figure 2).

We set up another reflector that is curved and took another shot (figure 3).

As you can see in the results, this does not work either. There are still both light and dark areas in the reflection on the breadbox (figure 4).

Lastly, we set up a reflector that was flat, positioned it to catch and reflect light from our main light onto the front of the breadbox (figures 5 and 6).

Finally. A nice even, smooth reflection that complements our subject (figure 7).

As you can see, a twisted reflector won't give you the results that you want when filling in the shadows on your subject. This holds true whether you are shooting a portrait or a product shot.

A twisted reflector is something a professional photographer should never consider using. At Photoflex, we instituted our "Flat Guarantee" over 15 years ago.

If you purchase a Photoflex LiteDisc, MultiDisc, or Oval LiteDisc reflector and it is not flat, we will replace it at no charge, guaranteed. After 15 years, we are still the only company that offers this guarantee.