A further workshop as part of the course was an introduction to the studios and lighting systems. This was carried out by Mark, the ever-helpful and knowledgable Photography Head Technician. As I was already familiar with studio photography, it was great to get a detailed overview of what was available.
The University of Brighton’s School of Media has three studios within the Photography and Moving Image department. These are situated in the Edward Street Building. There are two large studios ideal for shoots involving people or large sets. Both of these studios have black and white background rolls and a frame that can be used for your own backdrops. Also available are a selection of plinths and a red sofa.
With regards to lighting, one has lights set on tripods and the other has pentagraphs that can be used in a classic four-light formation. Also available is a selection of studio lighting accessories such as softboxes, reflectors, umbrellas, bouncers and coloured gels.
There is a further small studio with a plinth featuring an infinity curve, which makes it ideal for smaller, still-life shoots. Each studio features a Hasselblad digital camera on a fixed studio mono stand. Also in each studio, there is a large screen Mac, which can be tethered to the camera for instant results. Quite handy for test shots when shooting on film. Also, this could be used if I didn’t have access to my DSLR or if I had a double-aspect shoot planned.
I wasn’t sure at this stage whether I would be using these facilities, but it was reassuring they are there if needed. Also, there are technicians on hand if any additional help is required with regards to setting up and using the studios and associated equipment.
The workshop also prompted me to revisit my notes on studio lighting made during my HNC module focusing on portrait photography.
Introduction to Studio Lighting
Studio Practice Session Notes
These will be extremely useful if I decide to use any of the three studios during the course.
Jennie Meadows MA Photography 