3 min read

The Magic of Coloured Gels in Photography

Ever wondered how to add that extra pop of colour and mood to your photos? Coloured gels might just be the magic ingredient you need. In this post, we'll dive into the world of coloured gels, explore their creative potential, and show you some stunning examples shot at the Parker and Stone Studio in Perth, Western Australia. Ready to get inspired and take your photos to the next level? Let’s dive in!

The Magic of Coloured Gels in Photography

Coloured gels are transparent, coloured sheets that you place over your lights to cast vibrant hues onto your subject or background. These gels can dramatically change the mood of your photos, adding a layer of creativity and emotion that standard lighting can't achieve.

1. Set the Mood: Different colours evoke different emotions. Warm tones like reds and oranges can create a sense of passion or urgency, while cooler tones like blues and greens can evoke calmness or mystery.

2. Add Depth: Coloured gels can create a sense of depth and dimension, making your photos more dynamic and interesting.

3. Highlight Subjects: Use gels to highlight certain aspects of your photo, drawing the viewer's eye exactly where you want it.

Techniques for Using Coloured Gels

1. Background Wash:

- Cover your background light with a coloured gel to create a vibrant backdrop. This technique is perfect for fashion shoots, portraits, and any scenario where you want the background to play a crucial role.

2. Rim Lighting:

- Use coloured gels on rim lights to outline your subject with a coloured glow. This adds depth and helps separate the subject from the background.

3. Split Lighting

- Apply different coloured gels on each side of your subject to create a dramatic, two-tone effect. This technique is great for editorial and artistic photoshoots.

Examples from Parker and Stone Studio

Let's take a look at some fantastic examples of coloured gel photography, all shot at the Parker and Stone Studio in Perth.

Barbie Dreamland:

- This photo showcases a model in a vibrant pink dress surrounded by Barbie dolls. The use of pink and purple gels creates a playful, nostalgic atmosphere that’s perfect for themed shoots.

Creative Director: @ballerinska

Photographer: @chephotog

Makeup Artist: @facesbymaysun

Studio: @parkerandstone

Futuristic Vibes:

- Here, a model with space buns and braided hair is captured with a blue gel background, creating a cool, futuristic look. The blue tones highlight her makeup and outfit, adding to the sci-fi feel.

Creative Director: The Antistudio

Model: Jemma Morgan

Hair: Braids and Waves

Photographer: Jana Johnston

Studio: @parkerandstone

Mystery and Elegance:

A stunning shot of a model behind a water-streaked glass. The combination of blue and red gels adds a sense of mystery and elegance, making the photo feel cinematic and intriguing.

Photographer: Chelsea Bradley

Model: Mawúena Ama Arkutu

MUA: Ruby Darge Artistry

Studio: @parkerandstone

Bold and Intense:

- A powerful image of a man sitting in a dramatic blue light. The gel adds intensity to his expression and tattoos, creating a strong, impactful portrait.

Photographer: Jakobb Thompson

DJ: Joel Giura

Creating Emotion Through Colour

Colour theory plays a significant role in how we perceive and react to images. By understanding the emotional impact of colours, you can make more informed choices in your photoshoots.

- Red: Passion, energy, danger

- Blue: Calm, trust, sadness

- Green: Growth, harmony, freshness

- Yellow: Happiness, warmth, caution

- Purple: Luxury, creativity, mystery

Ready to Transform Your Photoshoots?

Excited to experiment with coloured gels and take your photography to the next level? Parker and Stone Studio in Perth is the perfect place to bring your creative vision to life. With state-of-the-art facilities and a variety of coloured gels at your disposal, you can create stunning, professional-quality photos.

Don’t wait to unleash your creativity! Book your session at Parker and Stone Studio today and start creating eye-catching, emotionally powerful photos. Visit [Parker and Stone Studio https://www.parkerandstone.com.au/studio-hire to book your session now.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are coloured gels in photography?

A: Coloured gels are transparent sheets that you place over lights to cast different colours on your subject or background, enhancing the mood and creativity of your photos.

Q: How do coloured gels affect the mood of a photo?

A: Different colours evoke different emotions. For example, red can signify passion or danger, while blue can create a calming or mysterious effect.

Q: Can I use coloured gels for both indoor and outdoor shoots?

A: Yes, coloured gels can be used in any setting where you have control over the lighting, though they are most commonly used in studio settings for best results.

Coloured gels are an incredible tool for any photographer looking to add depth, emotion, and creativity to their work. Whether you're shooting fashion, portraits, or artistic projects, experimenting with coloured gels can help you achieve stunning, unique images.