Lighting directors use light to enhance film and theatre productions.
Lighting directors are in charge of all aspects of lighting film, television or stage sets. The term is often used interchangeably with lighting designer, but a lighting director's job may encompass more administrative or managerial aspects of the work, such as supervising other lighting designers and technicians on films with multiple crews. The job requires creative, mathematical, technical and analytical skills.
Function
The primary function of lighting in theatre, television and film is to allow the audience to see what is going on. Secondary functions include creating or enhancing the mood, indicating time of day or passage of time, improving the look of actors and sets and maintaining a cohesive look throughout a project. The lighting director is in charge of all of these aspects, and may also be in charge of "practicals," the industry term for functional elements of lighting that are visible to an audience, such as a floor lamp or chandelier.
Skills
Lighting directors must possess a technical understanding of the way lighting instruments function, including the advanced and constantly developing technology required to operate the instruments. Mathematical skills are used to calculate the amounts of energy needed to power the lights and calculate how much area each light will cover. The initial concept for a lighting design requires the ability to analyze a script for lighting needs, while addressing these needs calls for creativity. The ability to work well with others is also required, as lighting directors must answer to the production's director and collaborate with set and costume designers.
Role
With the exception of the smallest theatre companies or film productions, the lighting director will not be working alone. As the highest position in the lighting department, the lighting director delegates tasks to members of the electrical crew such as production electricians (theatre) or gaffers (film and television). These crew members are responsible for setting up lighting instruments and control boards. Depending on the production, the lighting director may work alongside the rest of the lighting crew or may be occupied with other aspects of the job, such as meeting with the director and coordinating with other departments.
Training
Lighting directors are not required to have any specific training for some productions, but larger production companies may require applicants to have a bachelor of arts degree in theatre or film studies, or even a master of fine arts degree in one of those fields. These degree programs teach lighting theories along with drafting skills necessary for designing lighting plots. Hands-on experience with lighting equipment is essential for lighting directors, who frequently begin as production electricians or gaffers and work as interns for little or no pay, then work their way up.
Working Conditions
Unusual hours, such as long shifts and late nights, are common in the film and television industries, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The industry is made up of a young work force, employing more people under the age of 34 than the average for U.S. industries. On outdoor film shoots, the job may require being exposed to adverse weather. Both film and theatre lighting directors often lift heavy equipment.
