Black vs. White Silks

[swiperstopswiping]

Outside during the daytime, which is recommended, Black silks or white silks. Typically, I'm figuring it's obviously a preference issue, but do the black silks give off a way different lighting color than the white ones? I just am trying to figure out which color is for me before I make a purchase. Thanks

 

[filmat11]

Black silks have there place, but if you don't have any overhead silks/butterflies at all., I would suggest you invest in the white version. This will provide you with more options and uses. If you only buy one size frame, don't get anything smaller than
an 8 x 8, especially if you are going overhead with it. If you want to cut the light going thru it, buy or rent a double net, to place over the silk.

 

[Michael Carter]

Black silks: they cut down the amount of light overall; they soften it *somewhat* but it generally looks pretty hard; they don't fill-in shadows or dark areas. To my eye, it's just like stopping down your iris, not much change to the image. Good for laying on top of a white butterfly to cut the soft-light intensity down.

White silks: they cut down amount of light overall; they soften the light very much; they fill in shadows, the extent of fill depending upon the angle of silk-sun-subject. You can also use them to re-direct light into a doorway or alcove.

White mesh: same as white silks above, but the light stays a bit harder, looks more natural, and will open up your shadows somewhat (depending upon how sheer the mesh actually is... wide open vs. very tight weave). (My personal favorite generally).

All have their places, but I have a lovely & pricey black net that I don't think I've EVER attached to a butterfly or frame; I usually fold it up in front of a light to kill a stop or two without dimming.

 

[swiperstopswiping]

White mesh: same as white silks above, but the light stays a bit harder, looks more natural, and will open up your shadows somewhat (depending upon how sheer the mesh actually is... wide open vs. very tight weave). (My personal favorite generally).

What is it that makes the white mesh look more natural than the white silks?? Obviously its the material, but is it a softer light that it reflects??