Tag: lighting design South florida

Lighting Design Jobs

Posted on by J3551CA

The interplay of illumination in any production is a significant contributor to the mood, how it will appear on screens or in person, and the comfort of the people working under those lights. Lighting directors have a wide range of work options and they can choose to specialize in particular fields.

Establishing the correct lighting for any production includes working with a diverse range of industry professionals ranging from costume designers and sound designers to choreographers and set designers. They utilize their wealth of knowledge to ensure optimal visibility while maintaining safety and minimizing costs.

Illumination is a key element for any project and the venues are almost endless. Lighting directors can find themselves in studios, at the Olympics, under water, or in the jungle providing lighting for a documentary.

Lighting directors maximize the potential and power of light. Advances in technology, the digital age, and an increasing tendency for people to make every event an extravaganza has opened new possibilities and exciting opportunities for lighting directors that include the following.

  • Theater
  • TV
  • Concerts
  • Sports
  • Movies
  • Corporate events
  • Product launches
  • Fashion shows
  • Political rallies
  • Weddings
  • Cruise ships
  • Museum art exhibitions

In recent years, exterior lighting for an increasing number of structures and architectural features have become popular. The Empire State Building is a prime example and those types of projects require the expertise of a lighting director. As with any project, it requires efficient and cost-effective solutions, along with the coordination of colors and even images.

Those that aspire to the level of lighting director should be prepared for rising early, working late, and ending the day exhausted. There’s no “typical” day for a lighting director. The work can be physically and mentally taxing, but seeing the fruits of their labors and how it affects others can be one of the most rewarding experiences ever.

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.

      

Why LED Lighting is Cost Effective

Posted on by J3551CA

One of the primary reasons that stadiums and entertainment arenas are transitioning to LED lights for their illumination needs is the many ways in which they’re more economical. The lights are revolutionizing everything from the illumination of TV and film sets to concerts and sports extravaganzas.

LEDs are especially popular in the entertainment industry where every dollar counts and budgetary concerns are a daily issue. They use far less electricity than traditional lighting methods so they’re less expensive to operate. LEDs have a much longer lifespan than traditional illumination methods so they don’t have to be replaced as often.

The lights are more reliable and durable than traditional bulbs. They’re not as susceptible to being bumped and or jarred and can withstand impacts that would shatter older style bulbs. The fixtures also require less maintenance. If a single bulb went out in an old-style array, all the lights were affected – a situation that doesn’t happen with LEDs.

An LED array produces more illumination than its old-style bulb equivalent. Lighting specialists can use fewer lights to obtain the same effect. LEDs take less time to set up and are easier to move, which saves money on productions of all types. The lights can produce multiple colors which can eliminate the use of expensive filters and other techniques.

Another cost effective benefit to LEDs is that they can be safely recycled since they don’t contain the dangerous chemicals found in other types of bulbs. In this instance, the cost effectiveness is found through the use of fewer resources and damage to the planet.

LEDs aren’t as affected by colder temperatures as their traditional counterparts. They can be operated in environments without the need to carry as many replacements, thereby mitigating the cost of transporting equipment.

Frank Gatto Lighting was one of the first companies to understand the value and benefits of LED illumination within a myriad of settings, along with the ability to save money for clients. The company’s innovative LED techniques for lighting venues ranging from sports to nature filmography continue to propel the entertainment industry forward.

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 Lighting Offers a Team of Lighting Professionals

Posted on by J3551CA

Everyone has experienced an ill-lit venue where the light was in their eyes or it was so dark they couldn’t view the action. Correct illumination should be considered a guest at any event and Frank Gatto Lighting provides a team of lighting professionals for any event or production.

Frank Gatto pioneered a variety of techniques in the lighting industry and has won three Emmy Awards for his groundbreaking lighting design. The experts at Frank Gatto Lighting have worked around the world, bringing illumination to weddings, nature cinematography, major sporting events, concerts and award ceremonies.

The company has provided lighting for major networks around the globe, from HBO, Showtime and ESPN to Telemundo and Univsion, along with all the prime time TV networks. Frank Gatto’s work can be seen at venues that includes the World Series, NFL Countdown and Ultimate Fighting Championships. The company’s unique positioning in Florida enables it to provide services in South America and the Caribbean.

The multi-faceted company has also provided services for locations encompassing the STAPLES Center, the sports and entertainment center of the world, along with Madison Square Gardens and theatre productions. Turnkey lighting services and the use of efficient and cost effective LED technology has made them the No. 1 choice for any venue.

Frank Gatto Lighting also provides lighting evaluations and consultations for illuminating sets in the planning and preproduction phase. The company’s founder is also a highly in demand lighting master that conducts seminars on TV lighting, news sets, and sporting events.

With more than 30 years of experience in lighting venues around the globe, the name Frank Gatto Lighting has become synonymous for the highest level of professional lighting within a multitude of industries. He willingly shares his knowledge with others through his seminars to improve professional lighting opportunities for everyone.

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.

      

Filming in Nature

Posted on by J3551CA

There’s a reason that nature filmography, especially of animals, is so highly prized. The shots can be incredibly difficult to capture. Cinematographers must first scout a location and even be prepared for hours of waiting while battling all the variables that Mother Nature can throw at them.

Many cinematographers are turning to assistance from drones to capture animal subjects in their natural habitat and obtain aerial shots. Drones can be equipped with different types of cameras, provide unique angles, and allows video capture that minimizes the danger to humans. However, drones are subject to the same types of environmental problems as traditional equipment.

Filmography is a day and night time endeavor, depending upon the subject. When filming at night, cinematographers may need a combination of remote, light intensifying starlight, and infrared cameras, along with thermal imaging.

Extremes of cold are challenging for people and are particularly hard on film equipment. From lights to cameras and batteries, they can all fail at a critical juncture. Those filming in very cold climates will benefit from bringing additional parts, batteries, and taking precautions that provide ways to warm equipment. It can be as simple as warming batteries with body heat or filming in short bursts.

Heat extremes can be encountered in jungles, deserts and grasslands. Aside from taking additional parts that can be interchanged if one fails, a space blanket can be used to shade and reflect heat from delicate equipment. Coolers are effective when power is available to operate them. Equipment will require protection from blowing sand or moisture in jungle environments. Don’t charge batteries if they’re hot.

Some natural phenomena, such as fog, clouds, rain and sun, can actually be used to an advantage in filming. It’s imperative that cameras and any equipment be waterproof for filming in locations that are prone to fog and unexpected rain.

In fog and snow, different camera settings will be required to pick out details rather than showing a solid wall of gray or losing the subject in the “noise” that snow creates. Clouds can appear quickly and while they can be great to mask overly bright sunlight, always travel with appropriate illumination methods to counter their effects.

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.

      

Why Add Smoke to Enhance Lighting

Posted on by J3551CA

Smoke machines, are wonderfully versatile machines that can produce a variety of atmospheric effects, and it’s important to note that they’re not the same as a fog machine. The primary difference is that smoke rises, doesn’t take long to fill a room, and disperses quickly throughout an entire area whereas fog typically stays close to the ground.

A smoke machine will be the tool of choice for the spooky effects of TV and films in the horror genre, for concerts and theatre productions, and when shots require the entire room to be smoky. The smoke can be used for highlighting special lighting effects, especially for laser light shows, on dancefloors and concert venues.

The downside is that the smoke dissipates fairly quickly and can set off fire and smoke alarms. If not closely controlled, it can obscure images but it’s also one of the most cost effective special effects methods to use. Consumer models are available, in addition to fog machines, that are extremely popular as part of Halloween festivities.

A smoke machine is ideal for recreating the smoke-filled atmosphere of a speakeasy and a gently blowing fan will create air currents for a misty feeling reminiscent of “dream sequences.” The machines are appropriate for producing theatrical smoke for TV and the cinema, along with still photos and the theatre stage to create a specific mood or atmosphere.

They have the advantage of containing control panels that allows special effects professionals to accurately control how much smoke is added, when, and from what direction. Smoke reflects and refracts light, making it particularly effective when a special effect is required, but audiences aren’t supposed to detect it.

Smoke machines can simulate smoke coming from a wrecked vehicle, used as a scene transition on the stage, and to facilitate dramatic entrances at concerts and sporting events. It’s equally effective for sci-fi type effects or to create an alien landscape. The uses of a theatrical smoke machine are many and varied, making the devices a favorite of special effects creators.

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.

            

How to Become a TV Lighting Designer

Posted on by J3551CA

If you’re one of the people that have a fascination for lighting and dream of a career in TV, be prepared to learn much more than techniques and methods. Your ultimate job will be to create and design lighting solutions that are innovative, cost-effective and energy-efficient for the production you’re working on. That may entail illuminating indoor and outdoor environments.

You’ll need a comprehensive education that encompasses topics ranging from architecture and theatre history to art and literature, along with industry-specific software. Education requirements can vary widely by employer and you may need a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, while other companies will want a master’s degree.

High school theatrical productions are a good place to begin learning and don’t forget to look for internship opportunities whether you’re in high school or college. Film and photography clubs at the high school level will assist in understanding the interplay of light in different atmospheres.

Many high schools perform stage productions that provide valuable experience. Even small communities often have theatre groups that would welcome assistance designing and creating sets. Lighting tradeshows are also an opportunity to learn about the newest techniques, technology, and methods. Manufacturers demonstrate their products and experienced design professionals are often in attendance to hold discussions.

Math is also an essential skill since one of your responsibilities as a lighting designer will be to create the most cost-efficient projects. The grounding in math will also be utilized to measure and calculate the illumination required and the positioning of different types of lights for each project.

The future illumination you’ll provide will incorporate multiple factors that include the size of the venue to whether it’s an event that takes place in the daylight or nighttime. You’ll also need to know how to perform lighting simulations and a myriad of other tasks.

A TV lighting designer has a wealth of opportunities for creativity and innovation within the industry. It’s also a profession that offers a high degree of satisfaction that will enable you to stretch your talent and skill to the limit.

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

Posted on by J3551CA

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.

            

Hiring the Right Lighting Designer

Posted on by J3551CA

Lighting is an essential element for videographers at weddings to sporting events for broadcast networks. It’s an art and a highly specialized field that requires extensive knowledge of how light works in different environments to the properties of the film being used. Hiring the right lighting director requires some research.

It may seem like a minor consideration, but choosing a lighting director familiar with LED lighting systems should be a priority. LED lighting is brighter, yet offers a softer illumination that will enhance the appearance of the subjects. Another benefit is that LED lights don’t produce as much heat as old-fashioned methods so people stay more comfortable and LED lights use less power, making them environmentally friendly.

A lighting professional will have the equipment needed to reflect light into dimly lit areas for a uniform appearance that prevents unwanted shadows and dark spots. The right illumination is essential for filming and it also ensures that still photos are perfect memory-makers or appropriate for promotional purposes.

A lighting designer shouldn’t be confused with the services of other electrical professionals. A lighting designer views environments with the eye of an artist and combines that with a variety of technical skills in multiple disciplines. They can provide spotlighting, colored illumination, strobes, lasers, and can time illumination to music and other cues. Lighting designers set moods, establish ambiance, and direct the focus of audiences or attendees.

The value, experience and knowledge the right lighting designer brings to any project will make the difference between a ho-hum event and one that’s an unmitigated success. A lighting designer understands the unique interplay of illumination in different environments and is experienced in lighting and filming techniques for occasions ranging from corporate events and professional films to sporting events and red carpet galas.

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.