1. Understanding Colored Gels:
* What are they? Thin sheets of colored plastic (usually made of polyester or polycarbonate) that you place in front of your light source. They filter the light, adding their color to the scene.
* Types of gels:
* Color Correction (CTO, CTB): These are subtle and primarily used to adjust the color temperature of light to match ambient light or other light sources. CTO (Color Temperature Orange) warms the light, CTB (Color Temperature Blue) cools it.
* Color Effect: Available in a wide spectrum of colors, these are used to create dramatic and artistic effects.
* Neutral Density (ND): Reduce the intensity of light without altering its color. Useful for balancing light ratios when using gels.
* Gel numbers/names: Gels are often identified by a number or a specific name. For example, a common CTO gel might be called "Full CTO" or have a number like "204." Check the manufacturer's guide for accurate color identification.
* Gel size: Gels come in sheets of various sizes. Choose a size appropriate for your flash or strobe.
* Heat: Be aware that some gels are more susceptible to heat damage than others. Avoid prolonged use with continuous lights, especially hot ones, and always use the proper gel holders/attachments.
2. Essential Equipment:
* Colored Gels: A variety pack is a great way to start experimenting. Consider starting with primary colors (red, blue, green) and some warmer tones.
* Speedlights (Flashes) or Strobes: Your primary light sources. Speedlights are more portable and affordable, while strobes offer more power and control.
* Light Stands: To position your flashes or strobes.
* Gel Holders/Attachments: These attach to your flash or strobe and hold the gel securely in place. Options include velcro, rubber bands, or dedicated gel holders designed for specific flash models.
* Diffusers (Optional): To soften the light from your flash and reduce harsh shadows. Diffusers can be combined with gels.
* Reflectors (Optional): To bounce light back onto your subject and fill in shadows.
* Background (Optional): Consider using a neutral or colored background to complement your gel choices.
* Light Meter (Optional): For precise control, especially when using multiple lights.
3. Planning Your Shoot:
* Concept & Mood: What feeling do you want to evoke? Decide on the overall look and feel of your portrait. Consider the subject's personality and the story you want to tell.
* Color Palette: Choose your gel colors. Consider:
* Complementary Colors: Colors opposite each other on the color wheel (e.g., red & green, blue & orange, yellow & purple) create contrast and visual excitement.
* Analogous Colors: Colors next to each other on the color wheel (e.g., blue, blue-green, green) create a harmonious and calming effect.
* Monochromatic: Using different shades and tones of a single color can create a sophisticated and subtle look.
* Lighting Setup: Sketch out your lighting setup. Where will you place each light source? What will be the power output of each light?
4. Basic Lighting Setups with Colored Gels:
* Single Light with Gel: The simplest setup. Place one light with a gel on your subject. This is a great starting point for experimenting with different colors and angles.
* Two Lights with Different Gels: Place one light with a gel on the subject and a second light with a different gel as a rim light or to light the background. This can create a dramatic and dynamic look.
* Key Light with Gel and Fill Light: Use one light with a gel as your key (main) light and a second light (without a gel or with a subtle CTO/CTB gel) to fill in the shadows.
* Background Light with Gel: Use a light with a gel to illuminate the background, creating a colorful backdrop for your subject. This allows you to separate the subject from the background.
* Gel on Hair Light (Rim Light): A colored gel placed on a light behind your subject to create a rim light effect. This is perfect for adding dimension and highlights.
5. Lighting Techniques and Color Combinations:
* Separation: Use different colors to separate your subject from the background.
* Color Blocking: Create distinct areas of color in your image.
* Subtle Hints: Use gels sparingly to add subtle color casts rather than overwhelming color washes.
* Vignetting: Use a snoot or grid on your gelled light to create a vignette effect, focusing the color on the subject and darkening the edges.
* Split Lighting with Color: Light half of the subject's face with one color and the other half with another color.
* Popular Color Combinations:
* Teal & Orange: A classic combination that creates a visually appealing contrast.
* Red & Blue: Bold and dramatic, perfect for creating a sense of energy.
* Pink & Purple: Dreamy and romantic, great for portraits with a softer feel.
* Green & Yellow: Vibrant and cheerful, ideal for portraits with a playful vibe.
6. Camera Settings:
* Shoot in RAW: This gives you the most flexibility in post-processing to adjust white balance and color.
* White Balance: Set your white balance to "flash" or "custom" and adjust it later in post-processing. If you're using color correction gels (CTO/CTB), you can adjust your white balance in-camera to compensate. If using creative gels, it's best to adjust in post.
* Aperture: Choose an aperture based on your desired depth of field. A wider aperture (e.g., f/2.8) will create a shallow depth of field and blur the background. A narrower aperture (e.g., f/8) will create a deeper depth of field and keep more of the scene in focus.
* ISO: Keep your ISO as low as possible to minimize noise.
* Shutter Speed: Set your shutter speed to sync with your flash. The maximum sync speed is usually around 1/200th of a second or 1/250th of a second. Consult your camera manual.
* Power Settings: Start with low power settings on your flash and gradually increase the power until you achieve the desired exposure. A light meter can help you set the proper levels.
7. Post-Processing:
* White Balance Adjustment: Fine-tune the white balance to achieve the desired color cast.
* Color Correction: Adjust the colors to ensure they are accurate and pleasing to the eye.
* Dodging and Burning: Use dodging and burning techniques to selectively lighten and darken areas of the image, enhancing the highlights and shadows.
* Color Grading: Use color grading tools to further refine the colors and create a unique look and feel. Programs like Lightroom and Capture One are very helpful for these adjustments.
8. Tips & Tricks:
* Experimentation is Key: Don't be afraid to experiment with different colors, lighting setups, and camera settings. The best way to learn is to try different things and see what works.
* Start Simple: Begin with a single light and gradually add more lights as you become more comfortable.
* Use a Light Meter: A light meter can help you accurately measure the light output of your flashes and ensure proper exposure.
* Use a Softbox or Umbrella: These modifiers soften the light and create more pleasing shadows.
* Consider Your Subject's Skin Tone: Some colors can be unflattering on certain skin tones. Experiment to find colors that complement your subject's complexion.
* Watch for Spill: Be mindful of color spill onto walls or other surfaces. Use flags or gobos to control the light.
* Take Test Shots: Before you start shooting, take some test shots to make sure your lighting is correct and that you are happy with the colors.
* Communicate with Your Model: Let your model know what you are trying to achieve and give them direction. Encourage them to express themselves and have fun.
* Stack Gels: Stacking multiple gels can create even more color variations. You can blend colors to get new hues.
9. Safety:
* Heat: As mentioned, some gels are heat-sensitive. Avoid using them with hot lights for extended periods.
* Gel Holders: Use proper gel holders designed for your lights to prevent gels from melting or catching fire.
* Electrical Safety: Always follow electrical safety guidelines when working with lights and power cords.
By following these guidelines and experimenting with different techniques, you can use colored gels to create unique and creative portraits that are full of personality and visual interest. Good luck and have fun!