The study of how light behaves and interacts with surfaces and objects. Covers concepts such as color theory, optics, and the emotional effect of lighting on performers and audiences.
Color Theory: Color theory refers to the study of how colors blend and how they affect each other in the presence of light.
The Properties of Light: The properties of light refer to a number of different factors that govern how it behaves, including wavelength, intensity, polarization, and more.
Characteristics and Types of Light Sources: This topic provides an understanding of the different characteristics and types of light sources such as incandescent, fluorescent, LED, arc lamps, and more.
Lighting Fixtures: It's important to know about the different lighting fixtures to be able to create the desired effect, understand the strength of a fixture, and determine how much power you need for the specific scene.
Position and Angles of Fixtures: Shadows, angles, and positions of lights should be considered when designing the blocking of the stage to ensure that the actor is well lit in the given situation.
Light Plot Design: This topic refers to creating a design plan for various light fixtures that will be used in a performance.
Composition: Composition techniques such as contrast, texture, and balance aid in creating a lighting design that enhances the performance.
Lighting Consoles and Equipment: In order to operate various lighting fixtures, it’s important to understand the equipment and consoles that are used.
Lighting Design Software: There is software used in order to aid in the creation of the lighting design plan.
Safety Precautions: Proper safety measures should be taken to ensure that the people and equipment are properly protected.
Intensity: The amount of light that is emitted or reflected from a source. This principle determines the brightness or darkness of a scene.
Color: The hue or saturation of light that a source emits or reflects. The color temperature and gel filters used in lighting design can influence the emotions and mood of an audience.
Direction: The angle at which the light source is projected or reflected. The direction can reveal or hide objects, create shadows, and convey depth and texture to the stage.
Distribution: The uniformity or disparity of light that spans an area. Distribution enhances the visual appeal and focus of a scene, creates contrast, and establishes hierarchy.
Movement: The way light sources or components change in position, shape, or color. Movement can signify action, time, setting, and mood.
Contrast: The difference in the levels of lighting intensity, color, or direction. Contrast can separate objects, highlight features, or create visual tension.
Composition: The arrangement or placement of light sources in a scene. Composition creates balance, rhythm, and aesthetics that coincide with the script, message, or design concept.
Timing: The synchronization and scheduling of lighting cues with the performer's actions or the narrative. Timing creates rhythm, pacing, and emotional impact.
Atmosphere: The ambiance or environment that lighting creates. It sets the mood, tone, and atmosphere of the performance, making it more immersive and engaging.