High key question for the Master (Steve that is of course)

[MJS]

I have a dance studio recital and will be setting up for individual and group portraits. High key on a white vinyl sweep. I'm lighting the BG with two in white umbrellas, and a two light set up for the subject, I usually go with a 3-1 ratio key to fill. Was thinking f/11 on the BG and f/8 on the key. Does a 3-1 work on High key, or is 2 or even 1-1 a better option. This will be a typical line em up and shoot em type setup, all different costumes, just trying to keep a good consistent look to the set up. We're going with 60 " white umbrellas in bounce for the key and fill since I can't afford a bigger softbox. I have a 48" octobox but have to back it up a bit for full length and lose some of the softness, so will stick with the 60's and keep it simple. Is a two stop difference between subject and BG too much?

[Asylum Steve]

Is a two stop difference between subject and BG too much?...

Michael, I'm sure you realize that a lot of these decisions are not about right or wrong (or too much or too little), but what effect you want.

With a white bg, a one stop over-exposure should give you white. Two stops will still give you white.

The only potential problem depends on how close your subjects are to the bg. Too close with a two stop difference, and you're likely to get a backlit effect with possibly some flair. Now, if that's ok with you, then it's ok...

[MJS]

Thanks Steve, I'm going to do some test shots after I finish giving exams this week. The shoot is over three days, January 11 - 13 at the Dade co. Auditorium. I've got a three camera video shoot going on inside and will set up for the shots upstairs in the balcony waiting area. I was worrying about the back light on the BG and didn't want a blow out hassle. Nice shots from Chicago gig by the way. Coming down this way during the Holidays at all?