In this blog we’re going to explore an essential element of the entertainment industry that sets the tone for any event or performance - Automated Fixtures. Automated, moving head fixtures, or "movers" as they're commonly known, are a type of fixture that create dynamic lighting effects that can transform any space. In this blog, we'll be discussing the different types of moving head fixtures available, their specific functions and purposes, along with the best places to use them. We'll also discuss some of the possible drawbacks and limitations of each fixture.

Lighting dimmer racks are the unsung heroes of the entertainment industry, playing a crucial role in controlling and regulating the intensity of stage lighting. While routine maintenance is essential for their optimal performance, attempting to clean dimmer racks on your own could lead to more harm than good. In this blog, we'll shed light on why enlisting professional expertise for dimmer rack maintenance is a wise decision.

When it comes to creating a memorable event, every detail matters. One element that can make a significant impact on the ambiance and visual appeal is the use of gobos! These customizable lighting accessories have the power to transform any space into a captivating and enchanting environment. Let’s explore how you can use gobos to elevate your event and leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Event lighting is an essential aspect of any wedding. Lighting not only sets the mood and ambiance of the event but also serves a functional purpose in illuminating the space. A well-designed lighting plan can create a magical atmosphere and transform a wedding venue into a dreamy and romantic space. In this blog post, we will discuss how event lighting can be used in a wedding to create a memorable experience for the couple and their guests.

Lekolite, most commonly known as a Leko, is light that uses an ellipsoidal reflector to reflect light through a lens that then focuses the light. They are used heavily in theatre and are great for precision lighting. This light looks complex, but once we break it down it is very simple. We’ll be using a SourceFour Leko as our example, but the parts are generally consistent with all Lekos.

I thought it might be helpful to share some of the tidbits of information I’ve learned over the past 18 years as an installer and Master Electrician with the State of Washington. Lots of venues, especially non-profits, have been trying to figure out more cost-effective ways to get their installations done, and I’ve had to do huge amounts of research into this subject as a qualified installer helping them figure it out.

You just spent thousands on new stage production equipment and anticipate long-lasting uninterrupted service, right? Well, that only happens in a perfect world, and let's face it, we are far from that. However, there are things you can do to minimize your downtime and optimize the life of your equipment. One of the most important, yet overlooked steps you can take is implementing a regular maintenance program. In other words, CLEAN YOUR GEAR!!! When your equipment is hung overhead, tucked in a back closet, or inside of an equipment rack, it’s easy to fall into the “out of sight, out of mind” mentality, but it is crucial for the longevity and reliability of your stage gear to keep it clean.

Let’s start with the basics: What is uplighting?

For some of you, this may be obvious, and the title itself may be pretty straightforward, but to those who have never used the technique, I’ll give you a textbook definition. Uplighting is when you use lighting from below to illuminate upwards on a surface, or something that might be a point of interest that you want people to see. Most often the fixtures are placed on the ground, but not always.

In the past few years, production technologies have made a strong move toward IP (Internet Protocol) networks as a transport for audio, video and lighting signals and controls. Audinate’s Dante has emerged as the standard for transmitting audio over standard IP networks, video isn’t far behind, and we’ve been doing remote controls for consoles over wireless networks for years now. Knowing something about networking is essential to keeping up with the progress in today’s connected production systems. Unfortunately, the bits and bytes we use to make networks work are confusing if you have no experience with them. This article is my attempt to get you the basics that you’ll need to navigate an IP connected world.

Gobos are used with ellipsoidal or spot theatrical fixtures to create lighting scenes on stage. Simple gobos, incorporated into automated lighting systems, are also popular especially at nightclubs and other musical venues to create moving shapes. They may also be used for architectural lighting, as well as in interior design, as in projecting a company logo or message on a wall.