Sometimes the simplest solutions give the best result. After all, finding simple and cheap solutions is one of the main reasons why we turn to the DIY approach. Canada-based photographer Rafal Wegiel made his own bokeh wall using nothing but tin foil. With color gels and the right lighting, he shot amazing, colorful portraits in his own home. We chatted with Rafal about how he did it, so you can try this neat idea in your studio or even at home.
Let’s start with this awesome background. It’s pretty simple to make. Rafal used tin foil and had it very crumpled to get this interesting effect. The background was 2m (6.5 feet) wide and 1.5m (5 feet) high. To get the bokeh effect, Rafal fired a flash at the tinfoil backdrop. And to get the color tone of the background, he used Rogue color gels (orange, yellow and purple).
Using a two-light setup and a reflector, Rafal photographed his model Sabrina in front of the tin foil background.
Here’s the complete setup, as well as the gear and the settings Rafal used:
And these are the results he got. Beautiful, isn’t it?
Tin foil is a photographer’s friend when it comes to making bokeh, no matter if you shoot portraits, toy photography, or macro. So, if you want to add a bit of color and lots of bokeh to your background, make sure to try out this technique.
About Rafal
About Rafal
Rafal Wegiel is a portrait and commercial photographer born in Poland, and since 2001 based in Calgary, Canada. Creating images of beauty and trying to capture the nature of people, his work allows him to constantly explore the diversity of humans, inviting the viewers to see people’s inner beauty through the camera lens. Traveling a lot, Rafal had a chance to provide photography coverage at various fashion and beauty shows and events in North America and Europe; and he had his work published in many magazines and newspapers. Rafal also actively participates in Alberta’s photographic community by sharing his experience with those who are open to share their passion and learn more about photography. You can check out his work on his website, and give him a follow on Facebook, Instagram, 500px, Flickr, YouTube, and Twitter.
