Gel Filters

Gel filters are pieces of transparent colored paper used to filter light. Gel filters range in color, depending on what kind of filtering the photographer is going for, and they are heat resistant so that the photographer does not have to worry about if they are out in the sun, or heat, too long or not. Depending on the dye color and how much is used in the manufacturing process will determine how heat resistant the gel filter actually is. And, depending on the vendor, depends how each of the gel filters are manufactured. There are a few different ways including deep dying of the clear plastic film, dye mixed in with the plastic during the mixing process and surface coating of the plastic. There are many different sizes of gel filters that photographers can purchase for their lenses. Many of them are rather large and allow the photographer to cut the filter to size to fit the lens appropriately.

There are many advantages to using gel filters including their flexibility for easy storage and the large array of colors that is offered. Along with these things, other advantages are you can use many different colors to find the color you want, if they do not make it already, the gel filters are soft enough to cut with scissors and they can function in a very hostile lighting environment. Although there are several advantages of gel filters, there are also disadvantages including the size. If you only need a small amount, you still have to buy a large sheet and there are not many places where you can find them easily. Many times you may have to make a trip to a place that does theatre lighting. However, if you can find manufacturers who carry sample books, it might be a good option to see if they will sell it to you. That way you will have smaller pieces and you can experiment with different colors. Be careful that when you are using gel filters that you leave room between the filter and the lens for air to get to. Even though the gel filter may be heat resistant, your lens isn’t, so make sure you protect it to continue getting the quality pictures you are producing.

Infrared Wratten Gel Filter

Wratten numbers are given to optical filters. This system has been around for several years and has operated with flaws. However, it is still a way to identify types of filters

Lee Gel Filters

One of the most makers of gel filters is Lee. Lee sells gel filters for under $50 and they offer a wide range of them. There are many places to purchase the lee gel filters including camera stores and the Internet.