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DIY gobos can work for short-term or experimental setups, but metal gobos deliver sharper projections, higher durability, and professional results. This guide compares DIY gobos vs metal gobos so you can choose the right option for events, DJs, and photography.
A gobo is a stencil or glass pattern that goes inside a light to project logos, monograms, textures, or shapes. This 2026 guide explains gobo types, sizing, projectors, setup tips, and best use cases for events, DJs, and studio photography.
Gobos allow photographers to paint with light by projecting shapes, numbers and textures directly into a scene. In this post you’ll learn how to use gobos for studio portraits and product work, plus a step-by-step birthday setup using number projections. Why photographers love custom gobos Common Gobo projection tools In order to use a gobo,…
Quick Comparison Feature Metal (Steel) Glass Plastic / Acetate Detail & Resolution Good for bold designs; fine detail limited by bridges Excellent—razor-sharp detail, halftones, and full color is possible Low–medium; simple shapes only Color Single color (white/mono) Full color or grayscale Usually single color (mono) Heat Resistance High (great for high-watt fixtures) Medium (tempered/borosilicate); avoid…
What Are Custom Gobos? Getting started with the definition, custom gobos are specially designed templates or patterns used in lighting fixtures to project logos, names, designs, or decorative patterns using light. Whether made from metal, glass, or digital formats, gobos offer a unique way to personalize an event or promote a brand. From weddings to…
Gobos, or metal templates used to project patterns and images onto surfaces, are a popular and versatile lighting option for events. They can be used to add visual interest, create atmosphere, and highlight key areas or features of the event space. However, in order to achieve the desired effect, it’s important to pay careful attention…
Gobos can be used to create a range of ambiances, from elegant and romantic to fun and playful. One of the most popular ways to use gobos at weddings is to project the couple’s names or initials onto a wall or dance floor. This creates a personalized and memorable touch that guests are sure to…
As a DJ, it’s important to constantly look for ways to improve your events and stand out from the competition. One effective way to do this is by incorporating gobos into your lighting setup. Gobos are stencils or templates placed in front of a light source to control the shape of the emitted light. They…
One of the most common questions we get asked on a daily basis is: What gobo size should I select for my custom gobo? The answer is simple, it will depend on the gobo projector you are using. In our size options you will see the standard letter sizes and the option “Other”, the following…
This year has certainly not been easy for any of us, and it no longer seems like getting “back to normal” is happening anytime soon, if ever. The pandemic has affected just about every area of our lives, especially large events. Whether you’ve already been affected and had to reschedule your wedding, or you are…
