Photography without an assistant

[runnah]

Gaffer tape and zip ties.

 

[kundalini]

Sometimes you have to make your own lemonade from a dry packet.
Sometimes you get to add a little sweetner.
Sometimes you get fresh squeezed.
Sometimes you build your own stand.
Sometimes you get serviced properly.

At the end of the day, you just have to learn to adapt.

 

[2WheelPhoto]

At the end of the day, you just have to learn to adapt.

^^^at the "end of the day" you found TWO assistants

 

[Tee]

I find it easier to take a monolight, softbox, and battery pack with me. I carry the monolight with softbox attached and battery in a bag over my shoulder and my subjects carry the stand and sandbag. Then I set up in 2 seconds. I don't have to worry about fiddling the reflector for the right angle or if the reflector will give me enough fill, etc.

I did this on the fly for a co-worker down the street at the park. 500ws monolight powered down, 24X35 softbox, and Vagabond mini pack. Sun setting behind them. Easy-peasy.

 

[CallibCarver]

You an buy a reflector stand, or arm. Whatever they are called. I've never bought one, but I've seen the stands with arms on them holding reflectors. I've seen people turn those gorilla into a fairly nice and cool reflector or accessory holder for under $30.

 

[owlxxx]

I've used a monopod with a speedlight and diffuser. Only need one hand on the camera and one hand holding the monopod. I'm 6'3" so the flash can be about 14' up in the air depending on what I want I have 14' range of motion. I also have used handheld reflectors... There is always a way, wear a white shirt. change your shooting angles... etc.

 

[kanuski]

I have set the camera on a tripod with a remote shutter release and the delay set to 2 seconds. Then I hold a reflector or flash myself.