In the world of photography, art, and live events, lighting plays a crucial role. But what if a regular light source isn’t enough? That’s where an optical snoot steps in — a tool that opens up entirely new creative possibilities. Especially when combined with Gobo filters, it allows you to create stunning visual effects that can transform a photo, a space, or an art installation. In this guide, we’ll show you how to harness the full potential of a snoot — both technically and creatively.
What is an optical snoot, and how does it work?
A snoot is a type of light projector — typically LED-based — that lets you precisely shape a beam of light and overlay it with patterns. Using interchangeable Gobo filters, you can project geometric shapes, textures (like leaves, bricks, or rain), or even logos onto surfaces. Additional modifiers like barn doors, focusing lenses, and color gels give you even more control over the beam’s shape and intensity.
This hybrid of precise studio lighting and artistic projection makes the snoot a powerful tool for visual storytellers and creators.
How to work with a snoot: technical tips
While a snoot offers plenty of room for creativity, it also requires precision. One key factor is the distance between the snoot and the projection surface — the farther away it is, the larger and softer the pattern becomes. Start by testing in a small room to get a feel for the scale. Adjust focus using the lens ring, and if you’re using Gobo filters, make sure they’re inserted straight and centered — even a slight misalignment can distort the projection.
Pay attention to your light angle as well — aim from the side or slightly above, avoiding direct beams toward the camera or viewer. Power supply matters too: for outdoor or mobile setups, ensure the battery is charged or have a power bank ready. For best results, mount your snoot on a tripod with a ball head, giving you the freedom to experiment with light direction and composition.
A cinematic background for your content? Let the snoot do the magic
Creating content for TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube? A snoot can dramatically upgrade your visual style. Simply place it behind or beside you and aim it at the background — with a Gobo filter, you can instantly project textured patterns that catch the eye, elevate your setup, and give your videos a polished, professional look. Patterns like blinds, foliage, or geometric grids work particularly well, especially when paired with colored filters. It’s a fast, stylish way to customize your background — no need for wall décor or green screens.
Character-filled photography: texture and light-play
In a photography studio, a snoot acts like a painter’s brush — but with light. Gobo filters allow you to turn a plain backdrop into an illusion of sunlight through blinds, leafy trees, or stained glass — all in seconds. The result? Rich, dramatic, and visually engaging portraits — no post-production needed. Here are five ways to use Gobo filters creatively:
- Botanical patterns (like fern or monstera leaves): great for beauty or lifestyle portraits. Tilt the snoot at an angle to cast leaf shadows across the model for a jungle-like, dappled light effect.
- Window frames: classic Gobo patterns mimicking window panes create cozy, nostalgic light — perfect for minimalist portraits or “morning light” themed shoots.
- Striped shadows: Gobo filters with parallel lines (like blinds) add contrast and mood — ideal for black-and-white portraits or fashion shoots with a noir edge.
- Precision light slices with barn doors: skip the Gobo and use the built-in barn doors to create a narrow beam of light. For example, a sliver of light across the eyes while the rest of the face remains in shadow — a favorite in dramatic and psychological portraiture.
- Grids and mesh patterns: industrial-style Gobo filters can create structured backdrops for sports, fashion, or branding photography — evoking strength, discipline, or repetition.
These techniques turn light from a basic necessity into the star of your composition — no elaborate setup is required.
Event design and lighting with impact
A snoot with Gobo filters also makes an excellent tool for event lighting — at weddings, gallery openings, concerts, or conferences. Use it to cast ambient patterns on walls or integrate it into a show to transform the atmosphere.
Example: At a wedding, use a custom Gobo with the couple’s initials projected onto the dance floor. Or at a themed party, apply a “waves” filter with a rotating motion to create the illusion of drifting water — perfect for a nautical ambiance.
DIY Snoot Projects: Ideas for Creative Makers
For DIY enthusiasts, a snoot offers endless possibilities. Here are a few easy-to-try projects:
- Shadow puppet theater: place cutouts or figurines between the snoot and a screen to create a home shadow show — for kids or adults alike.
- Custom light branding for social media: make your logo as a Gobo (cut from thin metal) and project it onto your video background — a unique way to strengthen your visual identity.
- Seasonal light décor: design themed filters for Halloween, Christmas, or Valentine’s Day, and project them onto walls or windows — affordable, stylish, and full of charm.
Which Newell snoot should you choose?
Newell offers two distinct snoot models, each designed to meet different creative needs — from mobile content creators to studio professionals and live event designers. Both the Perseo Mini and the Perseo-33 let you work with Gobo filters and shape light with precision, but they differ in construction, usage scenarios, and power options. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Newell Perseo Mini
If you need a compact, all-in-one solution for vlogging, remote shoots, or social media content, the Newell Perseo Mini is your go-to. This lightweight optical snoot features a built-in 20 W LED light with a 16x brightness boost, color temperature adjustment, and 12 preset light effects. It runs up to 1.5 hours on a built-in battery and can also be powered via USB-C from a power bank. The set includes 15 Gobo filters, 5 color filters, integrated barn doors, and two focus rings. Weighing just 545 g, it’s perfect for creators looking for professional lighting in a mobile, easy-to-use package.
Newell Perseo-33
For creators working in professional studios with full-sized lighting setups, the Newell Perseo-33 offers maximum flexibility. It doesn’t include a built-in light but connects via Bowens mount to a wide range of LED lamps (like the Newell Pravaha or Mitra series). Its magnetic Gobo holder and precision optics allow for clean, sharp light projections. The set includes 20 Gobo filters and 5 colored gels, enabling a wide range of visual effects for photo shoots, film sets, or stage productions. It’s a high-performance tool for those who need absolute control over lighting design.
Don’t just light the scene — shape it
A snoot isn’t just another lighting accessory — it’s a game-changer for how you design with light. Whether you’re in a studio, on stage, or filming from your bedroom, it gives you full creative control to shape ambiance, mood, and narrative through light.
Not sure which snoot is right for your work? Reach out to us! We’ll help you choose the perfect model and share expert tips to bring your vision to life.
Looking for even more inspiration? Follow us on Instagram, where we regularly post quick tutorials, lighting setups, and effect demos that you can easily recreate in your projects.
