Opinions please: primer colors,which one to use?

[Chris Kelm]

I would like to know,what's the difference when using different color primers? I was told at my local show, that it doesn't really matter what color you use, white,gray or black.
I really need your opinions since I've been using white but been told that you shouldn't use that color.
Thank you,
Chris

 

[ghamilt1]

How about both? I shoot my figures with black, and then, after determining from which direction the light source is coming, I give it a shot of white from above.

 

[hypertex]

It's all a matter of personal preference. There is no universally accepted 'best' or 'correct' approach. For me, I avoid priming in black. But others will only prime in black. If you prime in white, keep priming in white. I usually white, but sometimes gray. No one can tell the difference.
Try this the next show you go to: look at all the models and see if you can determine which color of primer they used. I bet no one will be able to tell. We usually paint opaquely, so the primer coat is covered up regardless.
By the way, I avoid the advice of people who dogmatically say "never' this or 'always' that. It's a very narrow minded approach.

 

[Chris Kelm]

Thanks guys. I will stick to what works for me!
Chris

 

[harrytheheid]

How about both? I shoot my figures with black, and then, after determining from which direction the light source is coming, I give it a shot of white from above.

I've done this a couple of times and found it helpful, but mostly use whatever color of primer I lay my hands on first.
One exception is when I want a high gloss finish I use a black gloss primer. I'm probably fooling myself but it seems to make the gloss finish shine even more.

 

[harrytheheid]

It's all a matter of personal preference. There is no universally accepted 'best' or 'correct' approach. For me, I avoid priming in black. But others will only prime in black. If you prime in white, keep priming in white. I usually white, but sometimes gray. No one can tell the difference.
Try this the next show you go to: look at all the models and see if you can determine which color of primer they used. I bet no one will be able to tell. We usually paint opaquely, so the primer coat is covered up regardless.
By the way, I avoid the advice of people who dogmatically say "never' this or 'always' that. It's a very narrow minded approach.

I'm with you on that one, all the way....

 

[yellowcat]

This topic has been discussed before. Please check out this link:
https://www.planetfigure.com/threads/primer-color-why.132466/#post-967907

 

[harrytheheid]

Thanks guys. I will stick to what works for me!
Chris

It's just my opinion of course, but there's nothing wrong with trying out something new.
However, if you're happy priming with white and want to stick with it, then there's nothing wrong with that either.

 

[theBaron]

...I was told at my local show, that it doesn't really matter what color you use, white,gray or black...

Absolutely it can matter, depending on the technique you use to apply your color coats. The color of the primer can definitely impact the color of the coats applied over them. A light primer can lighten them, a dark primer can darken them. For example, If I have to paint white, yellow, or red, and I want the top color to be brighter, I'll prime with white or light gray.

Prost!
Brad

 

[BESPJL]

Hi Chris,

I use gray because I think is a more neutral color for the base colors.