Beyond the Shadows: The Gobo Projector
- Alex Katsi
- Mar 7
- 3 min read
Updated: 7 days ago
Have you ever wondered how photographers achieve that classic look of light streaming through a window or Venetian blinds so perfectly in a windowless studio? Maybe it’s the delicate pattern of lace or that dramatic, Film Noir cutout.
Well, so did I — until I discovered the world of gobo projectors! Prior to actually buying one of these I had experimented to try and achieve a similar look, but I couldn't ever get the shapes looking as crisp as I wanted. I used light sources of varying sizes to try and improve the clarity but still it never looked quite right. After a ton of research, I eventually discovered gobo projectors - these things basically have a lens inside them to allow you to focus your shape accurately onto your subject.
What a game-changer they are. As soon as I realised the potential, I grabbed the Godox SA-17 Bowens Mount adapter and the SA-P Projection attachment to pair with my Godox flashes and also constant LED light for video work. Developed in the world of theatre, you use a shape or gobo (GOes Before Optics) to shine your light source through creating a pattern, simple stuff but can be difficult to achieve.
So after picking one up, I was so excited to get started... and then, life happened. It actually sat in its box for about eight months! I was so pushed for time that the right opportunity just never seemed to arise.
That changed this week.
A little while back, I met the wonderful model Millie McFarlane. After sending her some reference shots I asked if she’d be keen to collaborate on a shoot incorporating the projector, and luckily for me, she agreed.
Armed with a Pinterest mood board and a single flash, we went to work. I’ll be honest: it was a bit of a challenge! It took some time to align the cutouts so the shadows complemented Millie’s facial features without losing too much important detail in the dark. After some experimentation I think we got there, I am really proud of the results. Hopefully, you’ll agree that we captured something pretty cool in the end!
If you’re in the market for something to freshen up your shoots, I can highly recommend a gobo projector. In fact, there are so many great applications for it—from product photography to videography work, the possibilities are pretty endless. I've really just scratched the surface. But I'm certainly looking forward to using it more... it's not for everything but I think its a good thing to have in your lighting bag for when you do need it.
I’ve picked up some custom-made gobos from Etsy to pair with the projector, and now I just can’t wait to try them all out!
The Godox projector is pretty budget friendly too so if you want to add instant interest and texture to your frame, give a gobo projector a go. You won’t regret it!
Ready to create something unique? If you’ve been looking for a photographer to help you build a visual identity that stands out, let’s talk. Whether it’s for a new EP cover or an updated acting portfolio, I’d love to bring these cinematic lighting techniques to your next session.
Check out the results of my shoot with Millie below.
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