Frequently Asked Questions
Find quick, direct answers to our most frequently asked questions. This directory addresses common installation inquiries, hardware standards, and product performance details. Use the categorized sections below to get immediate solutions and keep your project execution moving smoothly.
FAQ
Aluminum vs. Steel Gobos?
It all comes down to detail and longevity! Aluminum gobos are lightweight and work beautifully for simpler geometric designs or shorter temporary installations. However, because aluminum is thin, it can...
Can I customize Apollo Wedding Standards?
If you see a typography style you like on Template A, but prefer the structural layout of Template B, yes, those styles can absolutely be combined. As long as we...
Can I project gobos at an angle?
Yes, but expect keystone distortion. Some projectors have correction; otherwise, pre-distort artwork or adjust fixture angle.
Can I reuse my custom gobo for a future event?
Absolutely. As long as they are stored and handled correctly, both glass and metal gobos can be archived and projected indefinitely.
Can gobos enhance branding or corporate events?
Absolutely—project logos, taglines, or custom patterns for powerful visual impact. Apollo’s custom service and stock catalog make it fast and effective.
How Do I Get Color on My Metal Gobo?
Because a metal gobo functions like a stencil—either completely blocking light or letting it pass through the cutouts—the metal itself cannot project color. To add color to a metal gobo...
How can Apollo help with large-scale or complex...
Apollo’s experienced team and dealer network provide end-to-end support: artwork assistance, fixture matching (conventional or High End moving lights), bulk production, and technical guidance for events, installs, or tours.
How do Apollo gobos compare to ROSCO in terms o...
Both are excellent. Apollo’s laser precision often delivers superior fine detail and consistency in metal and glass. ROSCO is strong in projector hardware and broad distribution.
How do Apollo metal gobos compare to glass gobos?
Metal gobos are durable, affordable, and great for patterns/text (add a color filter for tint). Glass gobos offer superior detail and color but require more careful handling and heat management.
How do I protect intellectual property when cre...
Ensure you have rights to the artwork. Apollo produces to your specifications but does not provide legal advice—consult your legal team for trademarks or copyrights.
How do color temperature and CRI affect colored...
Higher CRI sources render colors more accurately. Warm or cool LED/lamp temperatures shift perceived hues—test with your specific fixture for best color fidelity with Apollo’s full-color glass gobos.
How do pastel colors turn out?
Soft, subtle shades require incredibly precise handling and come with an important technical disclaimer: pastel hues are harder to replicate perfectly in projection, so the final result on the wall...
How does Apollo’s technology differ from ROSCO?
Both are leaders, but Apollo emphasizes precision laser cutting and a massive in-house catalog of over 3,300 patterns
How does humidity or condensation affect gobos ...
Moisture can cause spotting or damage coatings. Use IP-rated fixtures for humid/outdoor environments and allow fixtures to acclimate before powering on.
What are emerging trends in gobo projection tec...
LED efficiency, smarter DMX/RDM control, higher-resolution glass printing, and integration with video mapping or projection mapping are growing. Apollo continues innovating with laser tech to stay ahead.
What are the cost considerations when choosing ...
Metal gobos are generally more affordable and rugged. Glass (especially ColourScenic®) costs more but offers unmatched detail and color—ideal for high-impact or permanent installs.
What artwork guidelines should I follow for cus...
Submit clean black & white line art or full-color files at 100% size. ROSCO’s standards (vector preferred, high contrast) are excellent references—Apollo follows similar best practices for sharp reproduction.
What is the difference between a white field an...
Gobos with a white field will project a white circle behind the design. A black field gobo will project the image as if the logo or text is “floating” on...
What resources does The Light Network offer for...
It’s a vibrant forum where pros discuss real setups, troubleshooting moving light gobos (including High End), fixture hacks, and creative applications—highly recommended for hands-on insights.
What software is best for designing custom gobo...
Vector programs like Adobe Illustrator work best for metal gobos. Photoshop or highresolution editors suit glass. Apollo’s art team can refine or create designs from sketches or photos.
What types of gobos does Apollo MFG offer?
Apollo specializes in metal gobos (laser-cut stainless steel or aluminum), SuperResolution® glass gobos (black & white/grayscale with intricate detail), and ColourScenic® glass gobos (full color with gradients and high resolution). We also...
Why are the colors in my gobo slightly differen...
When the gobo is printed on glass vs. paper The medium the design is printed on has an effect on color. There are many types of paper but all paper...
Will My Artwork Fit on a Metal Gobo?
It depends entirely on the design's structural elements. Because metal gobos are physically cut out of steel, any freestanding interior shapes (like the center of an "O", "D", or "A")...