PROJECT 3
Using gels with flash
Natasha J Bella gives a masterclass in gel lighting for colourful portraits
THE MISSION
Use colour gels on studio lights for vibrant portraits
Time needed
One hour
Skill leve
l Intermediate
Kit needed
• 3x flashes
• 3x silver umbrellas
• Colour gels
A dding colour with gels is a great way to bring some extra flair to portraits. Gels are pieces of coloured plastic that you can place over your light source to change the colour of the light.
They come in different shapes and sizes and can also be cut to size. You will see the effects of gels being used regularly in movies, theatre, TV and photography for colour correcting, to emphasize a particular mood, or enhance the scene. In portraiture, you can use acetate gels to change the colour of the backdrop giving you a wide choice of background colours; and you can also light your subject with them for creative and dramatic effects. Gels come in many colours so that you can find the perfect combination.