Cinematographer
From a DoP's perspective, this element is essential for the visual design. It allows me to consistently implement the desired color mood and aesthetic image.
Weak green correction filter that adds 1/3 stop of green to daylight and 3200K sources to match fluorescent and HID lamp color temperatures.
Overview
"1/8 Plus Green" (also "1/8 Plusgreen") is not a piece of equipment, but a color correction light filter (gel) for film lighting. The filter is stretched or placed in front of a light source and imparts a weak, defined green tint to the transmitted light – the weakest grade within the "Plus Green" series (typical gradations: 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, Full).
The term does not refer to a single manufacturer's product, but to a standardized correction density that several manufacturers (Rosco, Lee, GAM) carry. At Rosco, the filter appears, among others, as Cinegel 3317 ("Tough 1/8 Plusgreen"), as Roscolux 1/8 Plus Green, and in the E-Colour+ series as #278.
Purpose and Function
Plus Green filters add green to approximate artificial or natural light sources to the green/magenta characteristic of fluorescent and discharge lamps (fluorescent, HMI residual, discharge). They are the counterpart to "Minus Green" filters, which remove a green cast (magenta).
The 1/8 grade is the finest correction and is used when only a slight green shift is necessary – for example, to minimally match a tinted or daylight lamp to existing fluorescent light in the room without visibly tinting the image green.
Technical Data
Values vary slightly depending on the product line. Manufacturer specifications for the mentioned Rosco products:
| Product | CC Equivalent | Transmission | Light Loss |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rosco Cinegel 3317 (Tough 1/8 Plusgreen) | approx. CC 03.5 Green | 93 % | approx. 0.1 f-stop |
| Rosco Roscolux / E-Colour+ #278 (1/8 Plus Green) | approx. CC035 Green | high transmission (manufacturer specification) | low |
Standard sheet size at Rosco is 20" x 24" (approx. 51 x 61 cm); the filters are also available as rolls (e.g., 48" width). Exact sheet/roll dimensions vary depending on the line and should be checked on the specific product.
On-Set Use
- Matching Practical Lights: existing fluorescent tubes in the scene (office, kitchen, subway) often have a green cast; a slight Plus Green component on the film light balances the sources in terms of color.
- Fine Dosing: The 1/8 grade is chosen when 1/4 or 1/2 would already add too much green. Multiple grades cannot be arbitrarily combined without increasing light loss and inherent color.
- Counterpart Minus Green: Conversely, if a green cast needs to be removed, the corresponding "1/8 Minus Green" filter is used.
- "Tough" Variants: The Cinegel "Tough" filters are more temperature-stable and designed for use close to hot tungsten/HMI sources.
From the crafts
Perspectives
Producer
This professional solution increases production efficiency and reduces post-production requirements. It allows for flexible, quick adjustments during the shoot.
Gaffer
As a gaffer, this is an indispensable tool in my daily toolkit. It allows me professional light control and quick adjustments on set, which saves time and ensures quality.
More in the lexikon
Related terms
Test your knowledge
Quiz
1. Zu welchem Department gehört „1/8 Plus Green"?
2. Wie viele verschiedene Fachperspektiven bietet dieser Eintrag?