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Educational Programs in Lighting |
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There are many trade schools throughout the U.S. that provide educational programs in lighting. In addition, there are lighting companies themselves who teach classes on various topics in the stage lighting industry. Such topics as "LED's: The Future of Light", "Lighting Design for Dance", and "The Seven Controllable Properties of Light." These classes are usually taught by top industry professionals who have years of experience and are familiar with the very latest technology. One thing that is definitely true is that educational programs for lighting design need to be improved across the board. Plus, there needs to be more educational opportunities available. Lighting design education should also cross departmental lines and be an ongoing thing - you can never know too much. So, what are the specific areas of study? Lighting design encompasses esthetics, illumination, perception, and specific technical expertise. These are used to reinforce project goals. Lighting design education must serve the needs of the designer keeping two goals in mind: acquisition of a greater skill set and the quest to heighten the audience experience. But, there should also be educational opportunities in the areas of cross training among other related disciplines - if you are preparing for stage lighting certification, learn basic stage production techniques. If you are going for a lighting position in feature films, learn some aspects of film direction. Armed with this knowledge, you'll understand how your role integrates with the total project. In addition, you must have an understanding for and appreciation of the psychological aspects, the emotional connection and the physical aspects of lighting. So what is lighting design and the
goal of design education? It is the process of employing technical
ability and creativity, using the qualities and functions of light
to affect people, objects and space. The qualities of lighting are
intensity, form, color and movement. The functions of lighting are
visibility, mood, composition and motivation. When you engage in
a study program, be sure to learn as much as you can on these subjects:
Of course, at the end of the day, the designer needs to have a thorough understanding of their equipment and on-the job experience. This cant be stressed enough. In fact, if you're just starting out, working in a small community theatre with typical fixture types may be the perfect idea. The fixtures should be in typical positions, (front, back, side, down) at a typical distance (12-30'). Start with the four basic fixture types: 6" ellipsoidal reflector, 6" fresnel, 10" Par64MFL , and a 24" Flood. You'll learn more in a week doing this than you will during an entire semester at a school. Better yet, if you can learn along side a veteran, taking on the role of apprentice, you'll benefit that much more. Each fixture should be used to light a small scene, against a black backdrop and floor and then against a white backdrop and floor. Through this process, you'll learn reflection, absorption, intensity, color and other important attributes. You should also do this again by changing the distance, and then try it again by working with an actor. Eventually, you'll master the basics, move on to the tougher challenges and in time, become a lighting design pro. About Angstrom Lighting Angstrom Lighting offers the best stage lighting, theater or theatrical lighting, concert lighting, dj lighting, video lighting, party lighting, event lighting and lighting rental fixtures, lighting supplies, lighting equipment, lighting design and lighting education in the industry. Angstrom Lighting is located in Hollywood, California; additional information can be found at http://www.angstromlighting.com Click Here to see Additional Angstrom Lighting Articles Click
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