Category: Network Television Lighting

Going Back in Time

Posted on by J3551CA

Modern lighting for TV sets has come a long way from the Golden Age of Television of the 1950s. Today’s lighting use innovative LED lighting, technologically advanced cameras, and almost everything is operated by highly advanced computer systems.

TVs of the1800s were rudimentary appliances that more closely resembled an overhead projector. The first electric TV wasn’t invented until 1927 and even as late as 1947, few households could afford one. The first TV station was W3XK and it aired its first broadcast on July 2, 1928, but it wouldn’t be until 1938 when TVs were produced for home use.

The lighting during early broadcasts was bulky and cumbersome to set up, extremely hot to work under, and resulted in images that looked dull, flat and grainy. Part of that appearance was due to the flat lighting system that was in use. It created illumination that required less lighting, fewer pieces of equipment, and was designed to save money.

Another element that affected lighting and image quality was the cameras used. The entire industry was breaking new ground and it was expensive to deliver a broadcast. Artificial lighting hadn’t been widely adopted as it had been in the cinema and still photography. Studios relied primarily on natural sunlight for illumination.

Arc lights and mercury vapor lights were the primary types of studio lighting that was used for indoor sets. Incandescent lights were later introduced in conjunction with the other two. The newsreels of the war in the 1940s broke new ground by using photofloods and it was adopted in studios.

The bright illumination of an entire set was still the preferred method. It was Desi Arnaz, husband of Lucille Ball, who helped change illumination methods. Arnaz had vision and understood the lighting techniques used in cinema. He pressured studio executives to bring Oscar-winning cinematographer, Karl Freund, on the set to create the illumination for the hit TV show “I Love Lucy.”

It wasn’t until broadcast studios began emulating the lighting and camera techniques used in cinema that images began to change for TV viewers. Broadcast TV was simply shades of black, white and gray, which further added to the flat, grainy look of early TV images.

The first color TV broadcast was aired by CBS on June 25, 1951. It required different lighting techniques and camera angles that eventually evolved into the LED illumination, advanced cameras, and computer-controlled lighting that results in images that makes viewers feel as if they’re in the studio.

Frank Gatto & Associates, Inc. are specialists in lighting for television events of all kinds.  If you have an event that needs expert lighting, please call us today to see how we can help.

Phone: 561-368-0101
Email: frank@frankgattolighting.com 
We can be found on Social Media at the following links.

            

Common Lighting Attachments

Posted on by J3551CA

Lighting professionals will encounter a variety of commonly used attachments during their work. The sooner that aspiring lighting specialists know what they are and how to use them, the better they can provide the type of specialized illumination they will be called on to perform during their careers. The following are some common attachments used in modern cinematography.

Barn Door

A barn door is a light modifier that’s affixed to the front of theater or studio lights. The hinged doors are similar to old-style barn doors, hence the name. They enable operators to change the shape of the light without affecting the softness or hardness of the light source. Available in a wide variety of sizes, the positioning of the doors will dictate the shape and nature of the illumination.

Flags

These are also utilized to block and control light. They’re used to protect a lens from flare, produce a shadow, control reflections, and reduce contrast. They’re offered in a variety of shapes and sizes ranging from a few inches to several square feet to minimize reflected light.

Filters

The translucent or transparent devices are affixed in front of a lens to modify and alter the characteristics of light. They’re also utilized to add colors and special effects. Filters are available as slot-ins and screw in types. They’re particularly effective when working with surfaces such as glass and water that are highly reflective, along with pollution or moisture in the air that can produce glare.

Gels

This is a colored and transparent sheet that changes the color of the light to create a specific mood or to correct for color. They became known as gels since gelatin was used for decades in the manufacturing process. Modern gels are actually a heat-resistant plastic, though colored glass filters are also used as the plastic-type has a limited life span.

Many Tools

The number of tools used to illuminate environments varies widely and any lighting professional will need to know how each can be used to obtain very specific effects. They can make the difference between an average project and an extraordinary one.

Frank Gatto & Associates, Inc. are specialists in lighting for television events of all kinds.  If you have an event that needs expert lighting, please call us today to see how we can help.

Phone: 561-368-0101
Email: frank@frankgattolighting.com 
We can be found on Social Media at the following links.

            

Changing Studio Lights from Fluorescent to LED

Posted on by J3551CA

People watch programs for story lines and to see their favorite celebrities, but the lighting of that environment is a primary element in all studio broadcasts. Without the proper lighting, the subjects appear too dark or washed out. Improper lighting can change the color spectrum that’s captured by the cameras.

The lighting needs of broadcasts vary widely. Some companies utilize traditional fluorescent light bulbs, while others have opted to use LEDs. There are multiple facets to consider before making any changes. It doesn’t matter whether individuals are working in a broadcast studio or still photographers taking wedding photos, making an informed decision is essential.

Heat

Illumination isn’t the only thing that lights emit. Depending on the number of bulbs, the heat can be intense. Those working under the fluorescent lights can be extremely uncomfortable. Subjects sweat and makeup is ruined. Approximately 90 percent of the energy used by fluorescent lights produces heat. The other 10 percent produces illumination. Fluorescent lights are hot when in operation. LEDs remain cool to the touch through heat dissipation management and fewer lights are required to light the same area.

Eco-Friendly

Fluorescent lights contain toxic chemicals, such as mercury. They’re typically thrown in the trash when they’re no longer operational and that poses a hazard to the environment. LEDs don’t contain those elements and are 100 percent recyclable. An LED has a longer life span than a fluorescent and provides savings of approximately 25 percent through the use of less material and production costs.

Durability and Versatility

LED lights are stable and able to withstand vibrations, shocks and impacts. They perform in wind, rain and snow. Fluorescents can easily be damaged when bumped and are limited to indoor usage. LED lights can be used even in low voltage situations to produce the requisite amount of illumination, thereby preventing broadcast interruptions.

Informed Decisions

Studio work is comprised of closer range shots whether it’s in a photographic or broadcast studio. Making informed decisions about the type of illumination is essential. Companies must weigh the pros and cons of cost, heat management, and the impact on the environment.

Frank Gatto & Associates, Inc. are specialists in lighting for television events of all kinds.  If you have an event that needs expert lighting, please call us today to see how we can help.

Phone: 561-368-0101

Email: frank@frankgattolighting.com 

We can be found on Social Media at the following links.

            

Makeup and Set Lighting

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The right makeup techniques combined with set lighting can make all the difference in the world in how someone on camera is perceived. It’s one of the reasons why certain makeup artists are in such high demand. They have the knowledge, experience and expertise to know the type of makeup techniques that will best fit their subject in conjunction with the lighting being used.

Makeup professionals for TV and film do far more than enhance a celebrity’s appearance. They have a unique understanding of how different skin colors will look under specific types of lighting. The type of illumination that will be used on a set helps determine the colors and amount of makeup that will be used on each individual actor. Makeup artists work closely with directors, production designers and lighting specialists to achieve the desired look for everyone in front of the camera.

Many celebrities would be unrecognizable on the street. The appearance they present on camera is due to skillful lighting and talented makeup artists. All illumination methods aren’t created equal and neither are cameras. Certain types of lighting can make flaws more apparent or create unwanted skin coloration. Cameras can experience difficulty in detecting colors accurately.

As new lighting options have improved, the role of a makeup artist on-set or in the studio has become even more critical. The advent of high-definition TV has further increased the need for highly-talented makeup artists, since the skin’s every pore has the potential to be on display. The makeup used must make the subject look natural and enhance their physical attributes within the framework of the lights and camera.

Lighting specialists and makeup artists are two of the unsung heroes of TV and film production. They have the same goal, to show subjects in the best possible way. One accomplishes that through their lighting techniques, the other through the application of complementary makeup.

Frank Gatto & Associates, Inc. are specialists in lighting for television events of all kinds.  If you have an event that needs expert lighting, please call us today to see how we can help.

Phone: 561-368-0101

Email: frank@frankgattolighting.com 

We can be found on Social Media at the following links.

            

Lighting Should be Left to the Pros

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There are some tasks that are better left to professionals and one of those is illumination for theatrical productions, political rallies, trade shows, major sports competitions, and even high-profile weddings. It’s particularly essential when illuminating international events that can present unique challenges.

A professional lighting company has experts experienced in every aspect of illumination, technology and rigging to light every facet of an event to the best advantage while maintaining the highest level of safety for everyone involved. Lighting designers have the artistic eye and advanced technology for optimal placement of essential equipment for overall lighting, spotlighting and special effects.

Illuminating international events has its own set of challenges, some of which are cultural while others are physical. Residents of some countries prefer specific lighting types and brightness levels over others. Equipment in the U.S won’t work in Europe, and vice-versa, without the use of adapters or converters since the two electrical systems aren’t compatible.

Lighting for arenas and events that will be broadcast requires specialized knowledge that only lighting professionals can comprehend. A lighting designer will develop a plan for illumination and a lighting director will utilize his/her technical knowledge to implement that plan.

Professional lighting companies employ a highly skilled team of individuals that take on the practical tasks and solutions of lighting, along with technicians that position lights, securely rig equipment, and coordinate audio and visual components.

To ensure the best illumination options and safety solutions for any event, a professional lighting company is essential. Lighting is much more than simply a way to “light things up” so everyone can see. It’s an art form that requires skill, specialized knowledge, and an understanding of cultural differences wherever they may be working. They use innovative techniques that are cost-effective and environmentally-friendly while maintaining the highest level of safety at all times.

Frank Gatto & Associates, Inc. are specialists in lighting for television events of all kinds.  If you have an event that needs expert lighting, please call us today to see how we can help.

Phone: 561-368-0101

Email: frank@frankgattolighting.com 

We can be found on Social Media at the following links.

            

Set Lighting Techniques

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At some point, everyone has viewed a film and talked about certain scenes, how they especially liked a romantic interlude or how sinister the villain looked. While the actors’ portrayal of the characters is extremely important, lighting plays a significant role in the way audiences view the characters and scenes.

The illumination of sets, scenes and even special events is the result of careful planning and a working knowledge of how lights and cameras work in harmony. It’s a task that relies on equal parts of creativity, artistic flair, and technical knowledge. Professionals work with a myriad of techniques to ensure every seen is picture perfect.

A three-point lighting set-up is comprised of key lighting, fill lighting, and backlighting – and fulfills a variety of essential functions. It illuminates subjects from three directions and focuses attention on the actors. The technique is used to control shadowing. It can also be combined with backlighting for a four-point system.

Key lighting will be most prominent and will be focused on the area or individual that is to be emphasized. Fill lighting penetrates the dark corners and shadows, while backlighting is used to the rear of the subject and typically from a higher angle to add depth.

Two types of illumination utilized by filmmakers are soft lighting and hard lighting. This lighting is emotional in nature and contributes to how audiences perceive a scene. Soft lighting makes use of increased key lighting to balance the light ratio, thereby creating a scene that has virtually no shadows at all. Diffused overhead lighting is also soft and is especially effective for close-ups and conversations between actors.

In contrast, hard lighting utilizes bright sunlight or smaller light sources to create and heighten shadows. It’s used to great effect for heightening scary and dramatic scenes, along with volatile, suspicious and dangerous situations in filming.

Motivated lighting is a technique that enables shooting in an enclosed studio while imitating other types of existing lights that might be experienced in everyday life situations. This type of lighting can emulate everything from an 18th-century lamp to sunlight from a window.

Last but not least is natural lighting that’s especially effective when shooting on location. Mother Nature creates some stunning effects, but they can be enhanced with carefully placed lights and illumination techniques that are benchmarks of a professional.

Frank Gatto & Associates, Inc. are specialists in lighting for television events of all kinds.  If you have an event that needs expert lighting, please call us today to see how we can help.

Phone: 561-368-0101

Email: frank@frankgattolighting.com 

We can be found on Social Media at the following links.

            

Frank Gatto – A Reputation for Excellence

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When you are planning your next awesome event, stage show or studio production, you need to be sure that only the best professionals are working on your team.  When it comes to your lighting, Frank Gatto and his crew have a reputation for excellence that is virtually unsurpassed.

With over 30 year’s experience of designing television and special event lighting, Frank Gatto & Associates have worked with some of the biggest names in the business, including HBO, ABC, ESPN, CBS, NBC, Fox, Showtime, Telemundo and Univision. From sports telecasts, to live shows and everything in between, the expertise and skill of Frank and his team can be seen on the set of College Gameday, NFL Countdown, World Series, Ultimate Fighting Championships and many more.

Offering the highest quality of service in the lighting industry, the team at Frank Gatto & Associates have worked nationwide and even internationally to provide lighting for large scale events.  They also regularly undertake work close to their base in Miami and are the #1 choice for lighting events in the Caribbean and into South America.

Excellence Across All Disciplines

While Frank Gatto may be a big name in the lighting world, he ensures that everyone who works for and with him is versed in the same high standards of service as he is. From Lighting Directors to stagehands, every member of the team at are seasoned professionals, who can transform any kind of event or production using seamless, professional lighting techniques.

With so many years of experience, they understand the importance of effective lighting for every kind of event, and they only use the very best lighting equipment to ensure complete success every time. As a team, they have been on hand to provide award-winning lighting in a wide variety of venues and locations including Madison Square Gardens, the Home Depot Center, Staples Center and large Sports Arenas.  They have also worked in a plethora of smaller venues including Convention Centers and Theaters, to ensure that every event is perfectly illuminated, regardless of its grandeur.

Bringing Lighting Excellence Direct to You

Being able to travel to your location or venue adds an extra dimension to the services they offer.  Their tractor trailers are able to bring their first-class lighting rigs from the east coast to the west coast of the U.S. and Canada and are all fully equipped with the most up to date lighting equipment required to make your production a success.

The crew will transport everything you need and ensure it is set-up on time and in full working order, in readiness for your event.  This hassle-free turnkey lighting service is tailor-made to suit your requirements.

Leading the way in lighting

Because lighting is their life, Frank and his team only work with the very best lighting equipment on the market.  Their ability to provide and operate cutting edge LED lighting technology makes them a leader in the televised sports lighting arena.

Choose Frank Gatto & Associates for All Your Lighting Needs

Here at Frank Gatto & Associates, we can offer free lighting evaluations for your production. We are also available for consultation on lighting jobs as well as lighting sets still in the planning and pre-production stages. Call us today at 561-368-0101 to find out more.

Frank Gatto & Associates, Inc. are specialists in lighting for television events of all kinds.  If you have an event that needs expert lighting, please call us today to see how we can help.

Phone: 561-368-0101

Email: frank@frankgattolighting.com 

We can be found on Social Media at the following links.