background for people with different skin colour?

[kevin_flossner]

<p>Here's my problem: I'd like to shoot portraits of two friends (as a couple). She has a dark complexion and very dark hair. He's Irish and therefore has light skin and light red hair. </p>

<p>A black background wouldn't work well for her due to insuficient separation. A light background is not that suitable for him for the same reason.</p>

<p>Should I just select a middle gray or are there better options?</p>

<p>Thanks,<br>

Kevin.</p>

[acedigital]

<p>I don't think the background color matters that much here - if you use a flash/light to backlight or rim light them, that will get you separation from the background. Also do not have them too close to the backdrop. Hope this helps.</p>

[Matt Laur]

<p>Yes - use hair/rim lighting to define their hair/skin against the background. Don't over-do it, because that will look cheesily theatrical.</p>

[taryn_truese]

<p>I agree, as long as you light them correctly, you won't have a problem with background color. But if you feel safer going with a neutral color, why not try a light grey as you said.</p>

[marlon]

<p>Hey Kevin, about 2 months ago I was shooting something for Canada Goose jackets and they wanted a white (reflective!) jacket on one model next to someone in a black jacket. I chose a grey background just to make things easier so neither jacket would appear too prominent. </p>

[976photo]

<p>Black or dark can work just fine. Like Mark mentioned, you just have to light it properly. Add a hair light to her (not him though) and that will help to seperate her from the background.</p>

[kamal_passi]

<p>the beauty ofnpic depends on background color.......so be careful to choose background clocr</p>