How to Use Color Lights for Photography

In photography, colors can be used to create certain atmospheres, convey messages and invoke certain feelings in the viewer. Depending on the colors you use, you can make a photo look happy, calming, romantic, etc.

Two main ways to use color lights for photography are RGB LED lights and colored gels. They both can help you create some amazing and unique photos. In this article, we will introduce RGB LED light and colored gels in photography and show you how to use them in your photography. Let's get started!

RGB LED Light

RGB LED lights are one of the most popular ways to use color lights for photography. These lights have three different color LEDs (red, green, and blue) that can be controlled independently. This means that you can create any color you want by mixing the three colors together in different proportions.

Photo by Jose G Ortega Castro on unsplash

One of the advantages of using RGB LED lights is that they are very versatile. You can use them to create all sorts of different looks, from a natural-looking sunset to a psychedelic disco scene.

Another advantage of RGB LED lights is that they are very energy-efficient. This means you can run them for long periods without having to worry about them overheating or using too much power.

Colored Gels

Using gels is a great option if you're looking to add a little color to your photographs. Gels are thin, colored sheets of plastic that are placed over the lens or light source to change the color of the light. They're inexpensive, easy to use, and can be a great way to add some creative flair to your images.

Gels are available in a wide range of colors, so you can use them to create all sorts of different looks. For example, you could use a blue gel to create a cool, night-time look or a yellow gel to create a warm, sunny look.

Photo by Dan Cristian Padure on unsplash

One of the advantages of using gels is that they are very easy to use. You simply place them over the light source, and they will change the color of the light.

Another advantage of using gels is that they are very cheap. You can buy a pack of gels for a few dollars, which means they are a great way to experiment with color lighting without breaking the bank.

How to Use RGB LED Light in Photography?

If you want to use RGB LED lights in your photography, there are a few things you need to know. First, you need to choose a light source. RGB LED lights are available in a wide range of sizes, from small units that can fit in your pocket to large units that need to be mounted on a stand.

The size of the light source will depend on the type of photography you want to do. For example, if you want to use RGB LED lights to create a natural-looking sunset, you will need a larger light source to spread the light out over a wider area.

Photo by Elena Mozhvilo on unsplash

Next, you need to choose the colors you want to use. As we mentioned, RGB LED lights can create any color you want by mixing the three colors together in different proportions.

To help you choose the right colors, creating a mood board is a good idea. This is a board where you collect images with the colors and style you want to achieve in your photography.

Once you have chosen the colors you want to use, you need to set up the lights. RGB LED lights can be controlled by a remote, so you will need to position the lights in the room and then use the remote to change the colors.

Experimenting with the lights before you start taking photos is a good idea. This will help you get a feel for how the lights work and how the different colors look when they are mixed together.

Once you are happy with how the lights look, you can start taking photos. Remember to experiment with different lighting setups to see what works best for your photography type.

Photo by Joe Yates on unsplash

Tips on How to Use RGB LED Light in Photography?

1. Use a diffuser: When using RGB LED lights in color lights for photography, it is important to use a diffuser to soften the light and reduce any harsh shadows.
2. Experiment with different colors: RGB LED lights come in various colors, so don't be afraid to experiment to see what looks best with your subject matter.
3. Use multiple lights: You can create different lighting effects and add depth to your photos by using multiple RGB LED lights.
4. Be creative: There are no rules when it comes to using RGB LED lights in photography, so let your creativity shine through!

Photo by Libre Leung on unsplash

How to Use Colored Gels in Photography?

When using gels, it's important to keep a few things in mind. First, gels will change the color of everything in your frame, so you'll need to be careful when using them if you don't want your whole image to be tinted. Second, gels will also affect the exposure of your image, so you'll need to compensate for that when you're shooting.

To use gels, simply place them over your lens or light source. If you're using them over your lens, you'll need to hold them in place or tape them down, so they don't move. If you're using them with a flash, you can either attach them with velcro or tape or place them in front of the flash.

Once your gels are in place, take a few test shots to see how the color affects your image. You may need to adjust your aperture or shutter speed to compensate for the change in light.

Gels are a great way to add some color to your images. By using them over your lens or light source, you can easily change the color of the light in your frame. Just be sure to compensate for the change in light when you're shooting.

Photo by Libre Leung on unsplash

Tips on How to Use Colored Gels in Photography?:

1. Choose a gel color that will complement your subject matter and overall color scheme.
2. Place the gel sheet over your light source, and experiment with different positions to see how the light changes.
3. Try using multiple gels of different colors to create interesting effects.
4. Be sure to experiment with different shutter speeds, apertures, and ISO settings to see how they affect the final image.

Conclusion

Color lights for photography can be used for various applications and add a unique element to your photos. When using color lights, be sure to experiment with different settings and configurations to find what works best for you and your subject. With a little practice, you can create stunning photos that are full of color and life.

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