Gaffer Tape for Photographers: A Studio Essential You Need

They don't call gaffer tape the most versatile and reliable tape for nothing. Its use cases and applications across a variety of professions are, quite frankly, mind-blowing. Filmmakers revere it, event planners salute it, and photographers? They treat and utilize it as the secret weapon it deservedly is.

In the studio, it's indispensable for concise, zero-residue marking and positioning.

For on-location shoots, its sheer strength and ease of use come in handy when faced with unpredictable conditions that call for quick problem-solving

In this guide, we'll tell you exactly why gaffer tape - otherwise known as gaff tape - is an underrated yet highly important addition to your toolkit.

Why Gaffer Tape is a Photographer's Best Friend

Between frequently changing sets and coordinating models, a photographer's job is already hard enough as it is. An average tape that takes away from your workday simply isn't worth it.

Gaffer tape is the furthest thing from average, and here's why it deserves to be your new BFF.

Non-Reflective Surface

One of the most popular talking points in the never-ending gaffer tape vs duct tape debate is their respective finishes. Gaffer tape has consistently edged duct tape on that front - the latter's shiny, glossy finish can create unwanted reflections in still photos.

Gaffer, on the other hand, stands out for its signature low-gloss, matte finish. The finish ensures no unwanted light will bounce off of it and ruin a carefully crafted lighting setup. From cables to props to equipment, there's nothing gaffer tape can't secure without the slightest hint of glare.

Residue-Free Removal

Every photographer has been there - scouring a piece of equipment with goo-remover after using tape that left behind a sticky, unsightly mess. Gaffer tape eliminates this problem once and for all. It utilizes a non-permanent adhesive that peels off easily without leaving behind a trace of residue. It's about time you stopped worrying about sticky residues messing up your expensive gear or ruining your delicate workspace.

Strong Yet Flexible Hold

Gaffer tape's true strength lies in its ability to secure items firmly while maintaining enough flexibility to adapt to a slew of surfaces. It doesn't have the brute force of duct tape, but that's precisely what makes it perfect for delicate setups. It holds gear in place, yet still allows for quick adjustments or seamless removal that won't leave marks behind.

Essential Uses of Gaffer Tape in Photography

With only a few rolls of Tape Jungle's gaffer tape, a photographer's set can remain at its meticulous best throughout an entire production. Read on to discover how the humble gaffer is indispensable across a multitude of photography roles.

Managing Cables & Safety

On a cramped set where models are constantly moving and cables overlap heavily, a potentially deadly accident is only a stray cable away. Tape Jungle offers gaffer tape that holds cables to the floor or binds tightly enough that everything stays in its intended position and away from heavy foot traffic. It's a reliable, temporary solution for fastening power cords, HDMI cables, and even mic tables, ensuring proper organization and keeping tripping hazards at bay.

Securing Equipment & Modifying Light

Photography is as much about precision as it is about improvisation. An average photoshoot sees a lot of on-the-fly lighting adjustments and customizations, and it is here that the gaffer from Tape Jungle truly thrives.

• Attaching gels to lights: Over the course of a photoshoot, color-correcting lights or softening a light's harshness happens quite often. Photographers can call on gaffer tape to attach gels securely to light fixtures while not having to contend with damage or rigidity.
• Flagging light spill: Controlling the direction of light or blocking unwanted reflections are inevitable needs in an average photo session. Gaffer tape makes accomplishing them straightforward and easy. You can use it to attach black wrap, flags, or even black foam core to direct the light precisely where you need it.
• Securing tripods: Tripods are consistently in motion during a shoot. Gaffer tape can stabilize their positioning for considerable lengths of time, preventing any sudden shifts that could throw off your composure or cause accidents.
• Creating quick DIY barn doors or snoots: Actual modifiers are quite costly. Gaffer tape provides a quick, cost-effective solution for controlling light while replicating the level of accuracy expensive modifiers are known for. Custom barn doors are easy to craft from scratch if you have gaffer tape to help with attaching black foam board or cardboard to a light source. The final product can help shape and direct the light from a softbox or other light source, preventing unwanted spill. Similarly, all it takes to recreate snoots - which focus light into a small, controlled beam - is a carefully shaped black wrap or cardboard secured in place with gaffer tape.

Marking Positions & Set Adjustments

It's hard to overstate just how crucial people and tool precision is in photography. One inch outside of the desired zone, and the whole shoot comes to a frustrating and potentially costly halt.

• Marking talent or camera positioning: Aligning the camera for a precise shot or photographing models isn't a cakewalk, but gaffer tape can help combat the challenges these activities pose. The fact that it's discreet, easy to remove, and residue-free makes it a fantastic tool for marking standing spots.
• Holding backdrops, diffusers, and seamless paper in place: Backdrops, especially fabric ones, often require careful handling and precise positioning. So do large rolls of seamless paper and heavy-duty diffusers. Gaffer tape's strong adhesive makes holding these tools in place painless, no matter how frantic the shoot is.

Emergency Fixes & Quick Solutions

In the hectic world of photography, things don't always go according to plan. Gear might inadvertently break, backdrops might tear, or last-minute wardrobe adjustments may come up. Gaffer tape can be a literal life-saver in these situations.

• Temporary fix: Should a piece of equipment break during a shoot, gaffer tape's adhesive qualities will come in handy. Whether it's a broken light modifier or a malfunctioning stand, gaffer tape can hold things together long enough to get the shoot over the line.
• Securing wardrobe in fashion photography: Wardrobe malfunctions are nothing new for those constantly working with clothes and costumes. Gaffer tape provides a swift, discreet solution for securing garments in place without visible marks or damage.

Choosing the Right Gaffer Tape for Photography

Of course, no matter how or where you choose to use gaffer tape within the vast world of photography, it's important to remember that not all gaffer tapes are created equal. While it is very versatile functionality-wise, there are a few basic factors to keep in mind if you want to achieve the best results for your specific application.

Different Widths and Colors

Just as with duct tape, gaffer tape comes in various widths and colors to suit different needs.

For example:

• Premium cloth gaffer tape (67665): Available in widths of 12mm to 72mm, this premium Tape Jungle tape is perfect for flash photography.
• Premium cloth fluorescent gaffers tape (67665F): Ideal for joining background props, this premium Tape Jungle product comes in four standard bright colors and won't glare on set whatsoever. As such, it's the perfect accompaniment for any form of photography, indoors or otherwise.
• Standard grade fluorescent gaffers tape (67680F): Tape Jungle's fluorescent tapes are usually available in 10 different widths, and no matter which width you choose, they're sure to perform impeccably. This is especially true for low-light environments that require high visibility or important areas that could use careful marking.

Black vs. White vs. Colored Gaffer Tape

Your set is only as visually stunning, organized, and productive as the color you choose to use.

• Black gaffer tape: This is the most common type and is perfect for blending into dark backgrounds without drawing attention to itself. You can use it to secure cables, modify lights, and complete general studio tasks.
• White gaffer tape: A certified classic, Tape Jungle's white tape is what you call upon when you need to mark talent or camera positions on set.
• Colored gaffer tape: For those who like to add a little flair or organize gear visually, colored tape from Tape Jungle won't disappoint. Color-coding cables and highlighting specific areas on set is what it does best.

Tips for Storing and Maintaining Gaffer Tape Rolls

Gaffer tape, like most other tapes, is only as durable and high-performing as how and where it's kept. You can't afford to neglect storage if you want to keep your tape budget at a minimum.

First, ensure you keep your roll in a safe, dry place. Direct sunlight, excessive humidity, and heat sources can interfere with the adhesive, causing it to break down. Worse, the tape might become more difficult to peel off when you need it to.

Second, be careful not to keep Tape Jungle's gaffer tapes in alternative packaging. Original containers were meant for that specific roll, meaning they'll help effectively protect it from dirt, dust, and everything in between. Besides, the right packaging makes for easy transportation and accessibility even in the busiest of environments.

Finally, remember that while gaffer tape is long-lasting, nothing lasts forever. Before utilizing a roll that's been sitting around for months unused, test it out first to see if its adhesive has waned. Use older rolls if you have a large stock to ensure no product goes to waste.

Final Words on Gaffer Tape for Photographers

With so many use cases and niche applications, it should come as no surprise that gaffer tape is slowly finding its way into every photographer's toolkit. It's durable, it's remarkably versatile, it's enviably reliable - all traits that shouldn't be ignored by a photographer who's trying to move to the next level of productivity. Who's to say what the next generation of gaffer tape rolls have up their sleeves?

At Tape Jungle, we live and breathe gaffer tapes, and nothing excites us more than helping you choose the perfect roll for your specific application. Get in touch today.