08/20/2026
The Breakdown Series Pt.8 ๐ Gobos, cookie cutouts, flags, or whatever else you may call them ๐
๐ Gobo is short for โGo between opticsโ and theyโre used to create shadows, textures, and additional depth in your compositions.
๐ Gobos can be made (like the one in this set), bought, or you could find natural options like tree branches, windows, or any other object with interesting shapes or patterns ๐โโ๏ธ
So letโs talk about it!
THE SETUP ๐กconsisted of two continuous lights. Yes you can use flashes, but itโs easier/faster to see how your gobo looks on the background when adjusting.
1๏ธโฃ My key light was an Amaran Ray 660c from amaran with a 60in soft box, placed camera right.
2๏ธโฃ My gobo light was an Amaran 300c with a fresnel attachment, the gobo was placed about 4-5 ft in front of the light to help create the distinct patterns on the backdrop.
Gear used:
Sony a7V Sony | Alpha
Sigma 24-70mm f2.8 SIGMA America
Lights from amaran
Gobo was premade
The Grade ๐๏ธ
Color grading your images helps create a distinct look to your composition and ultimately helps you discover your own personalized style to your work.
I do 90% of my color grading in Capture One | Photo Software , utilizing the levels tool and the color grading tool in the color tab.
Let me know if you want a more in depth tutorial on Color Grading ๐โโ๏ธ
The Details MATTER!!
ALWAYS pay attention to the unique textures in your composition, understanding how light interacts with different textures will make you much more intentional with your creative decisions and how you choose to light them!
S/o to the team that made this possible, now enjoy the final results with a new perspective!
Model ๐๐พ: k_yhanna_
Stylist ๐: Jairus C. Midget
Makeup ๐: Maya Hernandez
Photography: Anthony Ferrell
[LOOK 1]
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[LOOK 2] Gobo light has now become a kicker light to backlight the hair.
๐จ The floor shadow gives away the light placement
[LOOK 2]
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[LOOK 2] fin.
