mastering portrait photography

6 Top Tips on Shooting Bold Portraits with Gels

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Shot on Nikon D800, ISO 100, f5.6, 1/100sec

Working with Gels can be a little overwhelming when starting at first. 

Such is the process that everyone goes through regardless of what task or assignment they are working on. 

The setup for this gel shoot was a simple three light setup. The coloured gels were red on the left of Elina and orange on the right of her shoulder. 

A beauty dish was angled slightly to the right to create a perfect triangle on her left cheek with the shadow dropping off. 

With such dramatic portraits, there are plenty of things to keep in mind before you start shooting. 



6 Top Tips on Shooting Bold Portraits with Gels

Shot on Nikon D800, ISO 100, f5.6, 1/100sec

  1. Communicate with your subject - getting to know them in advance can create a more chilled atmosphere and thus more authentic portraits

  2. With your theme in mind have a selection of matching outfits ready 

  3. Carrying on from point 2 - have a colour scheme in mind as this will help you style as well as communicate what you want from your make up artist (MUA)

  4. Have an MUA on hand to make sure that the images you capture a picture perfect in camera, saving considerable time in post

  5. Setup your lights in advance, have a play with them before you start shooting

  6. Master photographers always use a dedicated light meter - so use one! While most digital camera have excellent light meters on board. A dedicated one will help you meter for the exact highlights and shadows that you want in your image. A Sekonic L-308X is a good starting point. 

Shot on Nikon D800, ISO 100, f5.6, 1/100sec

I love how these images came out from the moment I saw them on the back of my camera. Take the time to keep reviewing and tinkering with different poses and looks. 

All these images were shot on a Nikon D800, 85mm f/1.4 lens.

Sometimes you may get ‘the shot’ right away, sometimes it takes a few adjustments. Be patient, communicate with your subject continuously and enjoy the process!

You can learn more about shooting fashion and portraits on my YouTube Channel. See you on there!