Using gels

My teacher has talked a lot about using gels to cover your flash.  It is supposed to "set the mood" or change the effect of your photos.  There are also gel filters used to reduce shadows.

You can buy a 1.75 x 2.75" sample swatchbook of Roscolux Series gels.  You can cut them out and tape them to your flash or you can try out and determine which gels or sheets to purchase.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=45189&is=REG&addedTroughType=search

Locally, you can buy a small swatchbook at Theatricks in Grand Rapids, Michigan for $3.50 or a large swatchbook for $7.00.