Tag: set lighting experts

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.

      

Lighting Technician are Essential

Posted on by J3551CA

Lighting is a fundamental element in any production, whether it’s film, television, theater, or live events. The way light interacts with a scene or performance can dramatically alter the audience’s perception and mood, making it a crucial tool in storytelling. Once a lighting plan has been developed by the lighting director, the next step is to ensure the plan is executed to perfection. This is where the expertise of a lighting technician becomes indispensable.

A lighting technician plays a vital role in any production crew. From positioning light sources to ensuring equipment safety, their responsibilities extend far beyond flipping switches or setting up stands. They must have technical expertise, creative problem-solving abilities, and an extensive understanding of safety protocols—especially when working with heavy and potentially hazardous equipment. In modern production environments, the role of lighting technicians has evolved, requiring a unique blend of technical know-how and artistry.

The Importance of Lighting Technicians in Production

Once the lighting director has established the technical set-up and design plan, it’s up to the lighting technician to bring that plan to life. Lighting technicians are responsible for ensuring that lights are positioned correctly, managing any technical equipment, and adjusting setups based on changing needs during the production. They are not only expected to be skilled in handling complex lighting rigs, but they must also have a strong understanding of how lighting interacts with the camera or audience’s viewpoint.

Lighting technicians work closely with a wide range of professionals in the production, from directors and cinematographers to set designers and actors. Their ability to collaborate and adapt to the needs of various team members is crucial to the success of a production. If something goes wrong or adjustments are needed on the fly, lighting technicians are the first to jump in with solutions.

Essential Skills for Lighting Technicians

Being a lighting technician isn’t just about technical expertise. It’s a physically demanding job that also requires creativity, quick thinking, and collaboration. Here are some of the most critical skills lighting technicians need to succeed:

  • Ability to Work Under Pressure: Productions are fast-paced environments where things can change in an instant. Lighting technicians must remain calm under pressure and be prepared to address challenges on the spot.
  • Ability to Meet Deadlines: Productions often operate on tight schedules, and delays in lighting setup can throw off an entire shoot or performance. Technicians need to manage their time effectively to meet strict deadlines.
  • Teamwork: A lighting technician works closely with other crew members, including lighting directors, camera operators, and set designers. Being able to collaborate and communicate effectively is essential to ensure a seamless production.
  • Attention to Detail: Lighting requires precision, as even slight adjustments to the position, angle, or intensity of a light can alter the scene dramatically. Attention to detail is crucial for ensuring the desired visual effect is achieved.
  • Creativity: While the lighting director provides the overall plan, lighting technicians often need to think on their feet and come up with creative solutions to problems that arise during setup or production.
  • Excellent Communication Skills: Whether it’s conveying ideas to the lighting director or coordinating with other crew members, strong communication skills are a must for lighting technicians.
  • High Level of Physical Fitness: The role of a lighting technician can be physically demanding. Technicians often work long hours, carrying heavy equipment, climbing ladders, or working in challenging environments. Physical fitness is important for maintaining the stamina required on set.
  • Manual Dexterity: Handling lighting equipment requires precise physical movements, from connecting cables to adjusting lights by hand. Technicians need to be skilled in working with their hands to ensure everything is positioned correctly.
  • Organizational Skills: With multiple lighting setups, cables, and equipment to manage, organizational skills are essential for ensuring that everything is in place and ready for use when needed.
  • Technical Knowledge of Lighting: A thorough understanding of different types of lighting, filters, rigs, and consoles is fundamental for a lighting technician. This technical expertise allows them to execute the lighting director’s plan with precision.
  • Time Management Skills: Production schedules are tight, and delays in lighting setups can have a ripple effect across the entire crew. Technicians must prioritize tasks effectively to ensure all lighting needs are met within the required timeframe.
  • Understanding and Familiarity with Equipment: From traditional tungsten lights to advanced LED setups, lighting technicians must be familiar with a wide range of lighting equipment, including their proper use and maintenance.

The Evolution of the Lighting Technician Role

In the past, many lighting technicians began their careers in entry-level positions, such as transporting equipment or assisting with basic tasks on set. Over time, they would work their way up the ranks, gaining experience and learning the trade hands-on. While this still holds true in some cases, the lighting industry has evolved significantly. Today’s production environments are much more complex, with advancements in lighting technology and production techniques requiring specialized knowledge and training.

For many lighting technicians, a formal education in theatrical production arts or a related field is now a common requirement. A bachelor’s degree provides the foundational knowledge and technical expertise necessary to work in modern, high-tech environments. Understanding computer-controlled lighting systems, digital consoles, and advanced lighting techniques is often a must in today’s industry.

This evolution in the role has also expanded the career opportunities available to lighting technicians. They’re no longer confined to working solely in traditional settings like theater stages or film sets. Today, lighting technicians find employment across a range of industries, including live concerts, corporate events, and even theme parks. Anywhere lighting is needed to enhance a performance, event, or experience, skilled lighting technicians are in demand.

Responsibilities Beyond Setup

The role of a lighting technician doesn’t end once the lights are set up. Depending on the production and budget, lighting technicians may also be responsible for operating the lights during the performance. This can involve manual operation of spotlights, adjusting lighting levels, or programming and operating lighting cues through computer consoles.

In many cases, lighting technicians are also responsible for the ongoing maintenance of lighting equipment. Ensuring that lights are functioning correctly, repairing any damaged equipment, and conducting regular inspections to prevent malfunctions is all part of the job. This adds an extra layer of responsibility, as any issues with lighting during a performance or shoot can be detrimental to the production.

Working on Location vs. Studio Setups

Lighting technicians may find themselves working in a variety of different environments. Studio sets offer a controlled space where lighting setups can be carefully planned and executed. These environments allow for the use of complex rigs and precise adjustments.

However, many productions take place on location, which presents its own set of challenges. When working on location, lighting technicians need to be adaptable and resourceful, often working in less-than-ideal conditions. Weather, time of day, and other environmental factors can all affect how lighting is set up and maintained. Regardless of the setting, the lighting technician’s role remains the same: ensuring that the lighting is executed safely and effectively, enhancing the overall production quality.

The Future of Lighting Technicians and Lighting Directors

As technology continues to advance, the role of lighting technicians and lighting directors will likely continue to evolve. The introduction of LED lighting, automated systems, and computer-controlled consoles has already transformed the industry, and future innovations will bring even more changes. Those who stay ahead of the curve by continually learning new techniques and technologies will find themselves in high demand.

Whether working in film, theater, or live events, lighting technicians and lighting directors play an essential role in the success of any production. Their ability to transform a set or stage with light is a unique skill that requires a blend of technical expertise, creativity, and adaptability. For those who love the challenge of creating visually stunning environments, a career as a lighting technician offers both professional fulfillment and exciting opportunities.

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.

      

Renting Lighting Equipment can Save you Money

Posted on by J3551CA

It can be far more economical to rent lighting equipment than to purchase it, especially for companies just starting out in the industry. It’s especially beneficial when a job calls for specialty lighting equipment that can be particularly expensive. An added bonus is that lighting rental companies often have a crew that will perform the heavy lifting and work of setting up and dismantling the equipment.

Renting lighting equipment is especially advantageous if a highly specific specialty lighting array is required and it’s something unique or unusual to the lighting expert’s typical work. It’s convenient to own a wide range of equipment and have it on hand, but if it’s something that may only be used once a year or even less, renting can be much more cost effective.

Automated systems are real time savers. They’re also efficient and cost effective. It can be expensive to hire a crew to man the lighting. Automated equipment can require more up-front monetary outlay even when renting, but they save on labor costs.

Less is sometimes more and those responsible for lighting venues must use their knowledge and be creative. There’s a tendency toward pomp and circumstance in everything, but not every event has to be a multi-colored spectacular. Strategic placement of lighting equipment is essential. There are multiple types of less expensive lighting options that can be rented that use state-of-the-art technology.

Another way to save money is by renting wireless lighting technology. It has the potential of reducing costs by as much as 50 percent, but can be pricy to purchase outright. The same can be true of LED lighting, though pricing is coming down. LED lighting arrays use less energy, are easier to set up, and enables lighting professionals to do more with less.

Renting lighting equipment of any kind can be an economical solution for a wide range of lighting situations and requirements. Specialty illumination and technology can be expensive to purchase. Renting can soften the cost.

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 On-Camera Lighting Mistakes

Posted on by J3551CA

There are no do-overs in live broadcasts making proper illumination critical. It enables audiences to see the action and is used to focus attention. It also enhances the mood. Illumination quality is important for a variety of factors ranging from the type of camera being utilized to the intensity of the image being broadcast.

Appropriate on-camera illumination is an art form that requires extensive education and can require years to master. Lighting is an element that’s always present in broadcasts. The trick is to create illumination set-ups that are “invisible” to viewers.

Under Lighting

Insufficient lighting is the most common problem seen in on-camera broadcasts. Typically a mistake made by the inexperienced, it occurs when a light meter isn’t utilized. The problem is that cameras don’t “see” light the same way as the human eye. Trying to correct for insufficient light with the camera increases the noise and graininess of the images and affects the focus.

Harsh Light

Also known as hard light, many novices confuse harsh with bright. Hard light casts unwanted shadows and will make the entire broadcast appear like an amateur production. Bright lighting can be achieved with softer lighting that also works to make subjects look friendlier and approachable. It’s infinitely more flattering to subjects.

Flat Image

A flat image occurs when there’s not enough demarcation between the background and foreground. It’s a snafu that can be extremely difficult for beginners to discern and happens when the subject is too close to the background and there’s no sense of depth. Viewers don’t know where to focus their attention. It can be remedied in a variety of ways using light, color and distance.

Light Temperatures

Balancing warm and cold illumination is important and desirable, but not when it’s casting harsh shadows on one side of the subject. The balancing act is especially difficult in live shots that are taken near windows with sunlight. Viewers will be able to tell there’s something “off,” even if they’re not able to tell exactly why.

Know the Basics

Individuals can alleviate the most common on-camera lighting problems by thoroughly understanding the basics, using a good light meter and practice. Lighting difficulties can be easy to rectify by recognizing their potential before they occur. “Mistakes” can also be used to create special effects for certain types of productions. Practice makes perfect.

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 Lighting Attracts Bugs

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Whether it’s a campfire or a JumboTron, light sources attract insects. Traditional incandescent bulbs emit light in the color spectrum that’s particularly attractive to bugs. Bulbs that produce a yellow or orange-colored hue are less attractive to insects and it’s the primary reason that yellow “bug lights” were created.

Navigational Aid

The question of why insects are drawn to light sources is multi-faceted. Bugs use light to navigate their surroundings whether they’re apparent during the day or only come out at night. Nocturnal insects use any available light source as a navigational beacon. The larger the illumination source, the more forcefully they’re drawn to it.

Insects that are attracted to light are known as positively phototactic, a term used to describe bugs that are drawn to light. Insects navigate by keeping the moon or sun on a constant angle in relation to themselves. When confronted with the bright lights used by humans that emit in all directions, it confuses them and interferes with their inborn navigational abilities.

Food and Mates

Additionally, many insects utilize certain types of plants, along with evening-blooming flowers, as part of mating rituals and a food source. Many of those plants reflect a small amount of UV rays and traditional lights also emit small amounts of ultraviolet light, which further leads to the attraction.

Bright Solutions

Any light source will attract bugs, but switching to LED lights is one remedy that’s been successfully utilized in-home lighting arrangements. LEDs emit light in the yellow/orange spectrum that’s less attractive to the unwanted pests. The light difference is generally invisible to the average eye, since humans aren’t equipped to see in the same wavelengths and frequencies.

The downside to traditional bug lights is that they tend to attract insects that are larger. LEDs with a yellow hue are far better at not attracting insects than any other, though if individuals haven’t switched to a more energy-efficient LED, a yellow bug light is the second-best option. The yellow color in LEDs isn’t noticeable to humans, but makes a difference to bugs.

LED lights are eco-friendly, less expensive to operate, and emit illumination in the spectrum that’s least attractive to insects. That means fewer bugs at any gathering and more enjoyment for everyone involved.

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.

            

LED’s Offer so Much Versatility

Posted on by J3551CA

LED lighting for any type of production offers versatility with which other types of illumination can’t compete. They’re extremely cost-effective and energy-efficient, two primary considerations when working on projects where time and money are at a premium.

LED bulbs emit more light per watt than other types, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor projects. They heat up quicker, but remain cool to the touch. It mitigates the potential for painful accidents by lighting handlers, while providing more comfortable conditions for subjects. LEDs don’t contain mercury, making them an eco-friendly solution.

Their small size also enables the illumination of smaller spaces where traditional lighting wouldn’t fit. Conversely, their higher output means fewer lights can be used to illuminate larger sites. They can be controlled from a master board or with new apps that are available.

Lighting specialists can utilize fewer LEDs to get the same effect as old-fashioned units. That translates into savings on any project. An added benefit is that LEDs with RBG capabilities are able to produce colored lighting effects without the need for filters in exact hues, for quickly and precisely transitioning from scene to scene. The better CRI of LEDs renders more accurate and vibrant color.

LEDs have a much longer life than traditional bulbs that burn out quickly and have a relatively short life span. LED lights feature longevity and are highly durable. Bumping them or simply moving them around for positioning won’t result in the need for expensive replacements. They also perform much better in adverse climate conditions.

With so many LED options from which to choose, illumination professionals would do well to experiment to discover which units they prefer. It’s fun to do, provide hands-on practice and familiarity, and is an excellent way to prepare for upcoming projects.

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 can Make or Break Your Event

Posted on by J3551CA

Everyone has experienced the disappointment and frustration of viewing a special event, only to discover upon playback that the once-in-a-lifetime event is too dark, there are distracting shadows, or glare. Proper lighting techniques and a thorough understanding of how illumination works is essential.

You want lighting that warms the environment and emulates natural illumination. The lighting sets the tone and mood for any event, whether it’s a wedding, seminar, trade show, or political rally. Always do a visual sweep of the venue you’ll be lighting. That examination will tell you where dark corners and shaded areas will occur and the type of lighting that’s already available.

It’s also essential as a lighting director to know if existing lights can be lowered or if any special illuminating features are already in place. That walk-through will also provide you with the lay of the land in regard to where the subjects and/or guests will be.

It’s important to talk with the company that will be doing the filming. The type of film and equipment used will have a bearing on the lighting and layout. Depending on the event, you may need spotlights or lower level illumination at various points throughout to create the correct ambiance.

Illumination has the power to reinforce décor, theme and mood whether you’re lighting a sporting event, a podcast, product launch, or a corporate gathering. While it’s important to highlight the principals of the event, you also need to plan for audience comfort. Illumination that blinds viewers won’t be appreciated.

Ultimately, no one will remember the lighting after the event – unless it was done poorly. What they will recall is how beautiful the bride looked or how the event made them feel. In many instances, the audience won’t even be able to put their finger on exactly what it was about an event that stood out for them because everything was perfect – but the lighting director will know.

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.

            

Fans Mad About Game of Thrones Lighting

Posted on by J3551CA

Game of Thrones fans took to social media after the Battle of Winterfell episode to voice their displeasure about the series’ lighting – or lack thereof. Lighting is an essential element for any scene, but recent lighting decisions by the show’s cinematographer made it extremely difficult for home viewers to see much of the action that was taking place.

Lighting delivers an emotional impact for every scene and the show’s cinematographer placed the blame not on the lighting, but the way that audiences were viewing it. He noted that Game of Thrones is lighted in the same way as a feature film and that home viewers didn’t know how to adjust their TVs properly.

He also sited watching on mobile devices that aren’t appropriate for cinematic filming techniques, watching in a brightly lit room, and compression of the episode by HBO that affected visual quality. The cinematographer also said the lighting was designed to give the impression of disorientation as it would be if the battle was real. The battle did take place at night so it was a low light environment, making the lighting decisions even more critical.

It’s a perfect example of how lighting decisions can make or break an episode or an entire film. It’s also an illustration of how light can be used to represent the clash between good and evil. The points made by fans and the cinematographer were all valid. Compression does degrade quality and mobile devices are not ideal for viewing TV or films shot in certain ways.

Conversely, today’s TVs have multiple settings. Any program or movie typically displays well enough for audiences to catch all the action. Home viewers have no way of knowing ahead of time that they’ll need to adjust their TV settings. It’s entirely possible to light scenes that establish mood while utilizing shadows to demonstrate the same effect that the Game of Thrones cinematographer was trying to accomplish.

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

Posted on by J3551CA

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.

            

Top Jobs Behind the Camera

Posted on by J3551CA

Frank Gatto & Associates, Inc. considers lighting and angles every day in the production of TV programs, sporting events, award ceremonies, and the corporate world. The lighting professionals are essential to every on-camera production. To assist those contemplating a career in the industry, the Emmy award-winning company has released its list of top jobs behind the camera.

Lighting Director

A lighting director has extensive experience and technical knowledge. They share the director’s vision for each scene and are responsible for creating the lighting that demonstrates what the director is trying to convey. These are the professionals tasked with determining where lighting will be placed, what type of lighting will be utilized, and if the use of colored lights and combinations will add or detract from the actors and specific scenes. It requires the creation of highly complex and complicated plans for execution.

Best Boy

The chief lighting technician, a.k.a., best boy, is responsible for coordinating all the lighting for every shot and scene. They’re responsible for liaising with production teams and provide assistance to gaffers.

Gaffer

The practicality of lighting tasks is the job of the gaffer. They aid in making innovative, creative and technical lighting solutions to make actors look good on camera and set the ambiance of scenes. They oversee and monitor the work of the lighting technicians.

Lighting Technicians

These are the individuals that handle the actual positioning and rigging of equipment. They conduct lighting tests to ensure the desired effect is achieved and manage the extensive array of equipment, filters, bulbs and accessories required. They also run the cable needed for operating all the lights.

Light Board Operator

A significant portion of lighting in today’s productions derives from the efforts of the light board operator. They’re highly skilled technicians that operate and/or program lighting effects to synchronize with visual and audio components.

Grip

The grips work with electricians and lighting technician to set up the rigging that will secure all types of production equipment. A grip helps “shape,” refine and control the light being used for spotlighting, diffusing, or creating shadows within scenes.

Making Magic with Light

There’s a wealth of opportunities behind the camera for anyone that has a passion for illumination and the interplay of light and shadows. Lighting jobs aren’t reserved for TV shows, movies and videos. Weddings, sporting spectaculars, corporate events, and high-profile celebrities and politicians also rely on specialized lighting expertise that can be found behind the camera.

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.