1. Understanding the Basics
* What are gels? Thin sheets of colored plastic (usually polycarbonate or polyester) designed to be placed over light sources. They filter out certain wavelengths of light, changing the color output.
* Types of Gels:
* Color Correction Gels: Used to adjust the color temperature of lights to match each other or the ambient light (e.g., CTO [Color Temperature Orange] to warm up a strobe to match tungsten).
* Color Effects Gels: Used for creative color effects, like blues, reds, greens, etc.
* Neutral Density (ND) Gels: Reduce light output without altering color.
* Gel Numbers: Gels often have numbers associated with them (e.g., Rosco #27, Lee #204). These numbers are industry standards that allow you to consistently recreate a specific color effect. Rosco and Lee are common brands.
* Gel Holders: Necessary for attaching gels securely to your light sources. These vary depending on the type of light you're using. Common types:
* Gel Frames: Slide into slots on studio strobes.
* Gel Bands/Straps: Elastic bands to secure gels to speedlights.
* Clips: Used to attach gels to reflectors or other light modifiers.
* Light Sources: Colored gels can be used with speedlights (hot shoe flashes), studio strobes, and even continuous lights (though continuous lights may require heat-resistant gels). LED lights are generally safer with gels than halogen, as they produce less heat. Be cautious about overheating gels with strong continuous lights.
2. Essential Gear
* Colored Gels: Start with a basic set of primary colors (red, blue, green) and some variations (orange, yellow, magenta). Sampler packs are a good way to experiment.
* Gel Holders: Matching the size and attachment type for your light source(s).
* Light Stands: To position your lights precisely.
* Light Modifiers: (Optional but highly recommended) Softboxes, umbrellas, grids, snoots, barn doors. These help shape and control the light, making the gel effect more refined.
* Light Meter (Optional): Useful for precise exposure when using multiple lights and gels.
* Camera: With manual mode control.
3. Planning Your Shoot
* Concept: What mood or story do you want to convey? This will guide your color choices.
* Color Theory:
* Complementary Colors: Colors opposite each other on the color wheel (e.g., red and green, blue and orange, yellow and violet). Using these together can create high contrast and visual interest.
* Analogous Colors: Colors next to each other on the color wheel (e.g., blue, blue-green, green). Using these together creates a harmonious and balanced look.
* Monochromatic: Using variations of a single color. Can create a very stylized and unified look.
* Background: Consider the background color. A neutral background (white, gray, black) will allow the gel colors to really pop. Colored backgrounds can be used to create more complex color combinations.
* Wardrobe: Choose clothing that complements or contrasts with your chosen gel colors. Avoid colors that clash horribly.
* Model's Skin Tone: Some colors look better on certain skin tones than others. Experiment to see what works best.
4. Setting Up Your Lights and Gels
* Single Light Setup:
* Placement: Place your light to create a dramatic side light, a rim light from behind, or a direct key light.
* Gel Application: Attach the gel securely to the light.
* Modifier: Use a modifier (softbox, umbrella) to soften the light and avoid harsh shadows. Without a modifier, the effect will be more dramatic and harder to control.
* Two Light Setup: This is a common and versatile setup.
* Key Light: The main light source, usually placed to the side of the subject.
* Fill Light: A second light, often weaker and placed on the opposite side, to fill in the shadows created by the key light. You can use a reflector instead of a second light.
* Gel Combinations:
* Key Light with Gel, Fill Light Neutral: Adds a color cast to one side of the subject while keeping the other side natural.
* Two Different Gels: Creates a split-tone effect. For example, blue on one side, red on the other. This can create very striking images.
* Complementary Colors: Use complementary colors for key and fill to create high contrast.
* Three or More Lights: Adds more complexity and control. You might use one light for the background, one for the key, and one for a rim light.
5. Camera Settings and Exposure
* Manual Mode: Essential for consistent results.
* White Balance:
* Custom White Balance: Take a reading from a gray card in the gelled light to ensure accurate color rendering (if accuracy is desired).
* Creative White Balance: Experiment with different white balance settings to enhance or alter the gel colors.
* Aperture: Controls depth of field. A wider aperture (smaller f-number) will create a shallow depth of field and blur the background.
* Shutter Speed: Controls the amount of ambient light that enters the camera. Typically set at or below the sync speed of your flash (e.g., 1/200s or 1/250s).
* ISO: Keep as low as possible (typically ISO 100) to minimize noise.
* Flash Power: Adjust the flash power to achieve the desired exposure. Use a light meter for precise measurements.
* Metering: Use spot metering and meter off the subject's face to ensure proper exposure.
6. Tips and Techniques
* Start Simple: Begin with a single gel on a single light to understand how it affects the image.
* Experiment: Don't be afraid to try different color combinations, light placements, and modifiers.
* Diffusion: Use diffusion material (e.g., tracing paper, diffusion gel) to soften the light and reduce harsh shadows.
* Distance: The closer the light is to the subject, the softer the light and the more intense the color cast.
* Power Output: The higher the power of the light, the more saturated the color will be.
* Gel Strength: Some gels are more saturated than others. Start with less saturated gels and gradually increase the saturation until you achieve the desired effect.
* Skin Tones: Be mindful of how the gel colors affect skin tones. Some colors can make skin look unnatural or sickly.
* Mixing Gels: You can layer gels to create unique color combinations. Be careful not to overheat the gels.
* Color Separation: If using multiple lights, position them carefully to avoid unwanted color spill. Use grids or barn doors to control the light.
* Post-Processing: You can further refine the colors and tones in post-processing software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom.
* Safety: Use heat-resistant gels with hot lights. Replace gels when they begin to fade or melt.
Examples of Creative Portrait Uses
* Dramatic Silhouettes: Place a gelled light behind the subject to create a colorful silhouette against a dark background.
* Split-Toning: Use two different gel colors on opposite sides of the subject to create a unique and eye-catching effect.
* Themed Portraits: Use colors that match the theme of your portrait (e.g., blue for a winter scene, orange for autumn).
* Abstract Portraits: Experiment with unusual color combinations and light placements to create abstract and artistic portraits.
* Fashion Portraits: Bold and vibrant colors can add a modern and edgy look to fashion photography.
* Fantasy Portraits: Use dreamy and ethereal colors to create a magical and otherworldly atmosphere.
Troubleshooting
* Uneven Color Cast: Ensure the gel is properly attached to the light and covers the entire light source.
* Overheating Gels: Use heat-resistant gels with hot lights and avoid placing gels too close to the bulb.
* Color Distortion: Use a custom white balance to correct for color distortion.
* Harsh Shadows: Use diffusion to soften the light and reduce harsh shadows.
* Unnatural Skin Tones: Adjust the color balance or use a less saturated gel.
By understanding these principles and experimenting with different techniques, you can use colored gels to create truly unique and creative portraits that stand out from the crowd. Practice, experiment, and find your own style!