For concerts, performances, television, film, and other events, a lighting director is in charge of designing and implementing theatrical lighting and special effects. This person is in charge of scheduling and supervising a crew of technicians and stagehands. He frequently establishes project budgets, purchases equipment, and handles other logistical details. This person is an important member of a production crew.
Various performances, such as concerts, plays, stage productions, and large-scale group functions, may benefit from extensive theatrical lighting packages. Lighting directors frequently collaborate with other designers to create luminary effects that enhance a scene or draw attention to specific areas of the stage for maximum visual impact. Concert promoters frequently hire these individuals to tour with a crew in order to perfectly coordinate the special effects of each show.
When the scene calls for it, lighting directors frequently use special effects to create a dramatic experience for the audience. For a thrilling effect, indoor pyrotechnics, for example, can be used at key points during a show. Fog machines and lasers can also help to create a more enticing atmosphere, especially during musical performances.
A lighting director may occasionally work for a local audiovisual or special event company. Rather than traveling with entertainers or planning large-scale productions, these experts handle the lighting needs of a number of smaller events, according to the needs of each client. For example, a general session, conference, or trade show may require audiovisual services. Props lit in coordinating colors can help make themed events more dramatic. Ambient lighting can be used to create a soft, romantic mood or an exciting, pulsating light show at weddings or social functions.
A lighting director’s job entails not only designing but also maintaining an inventory of equipment and purchasing replacements in the event of breakage or loss. This person, along with his crew, ensures that everything is in working order before a performance. Color gels, power cables, extension cords, and basic fixtures, for example, can all be restocked ahead of time to meet the demands of a specific job. Flying lights overhead may necessitate the use of additional equipment, such as trussing.
A lighting director is usually in charge of making sure that a venue has enough power to run the audiovisual equipment he supplies. He may be required to bring in industrial generators in some cases. This is common at outdoor events where power is scarce. This individual and his crew ensure that each performance is appropriately highlighted and intensified visual effects to complement a show, performance, or event through expert advanced planning.