What is a Gobo??
A Gobo is a physical template, most commonly on steel or glass, which is placed in front of a light source to alter the shape of the light onto a surface. Deriving its name from “Go Between” or “Goes Before Optics”, this piece of metal or glass is used to block portions of the light source. Custom gobos allow you to display words, logos, shapes, and patterns on a wall, floor, ceiling, or any other large flat space in your venue. They are usually used in front of a static light source such as a leko and are placed in a gobo holder to hold the gobo in place within the light.
A good example of this type of light projection is the bat-signal shown in the Batman films and comic books. The bat-signal has a circular light shining in the sky with an opaque Batman logo preventing light from shining through it, resulting in a circular light in the sky with the Batman logo cut out of it.
Ways to Use Gobos
There are plenty of ways to utilize gobos to enhance your event! You can display the name of the event or the names of people. Displaying the name of the bride and groom using a gobo is a cool addition to weddings and gives it a personalized, upscale vibe. They can also be used at conferences and conventions to display company logos or the convention name all over the venue. Gobos with shape or textured designs can also be used to provide unique ambient and textured lighting along the walls, ceilings, or floors of your venue. Gobos can also be placed inside intelligent moving lighting to have the displayed design move on the surfaces of your venue.