Lighting Plot Symbols

Understanding lighting plot symbols is key to effective stage lighting design. Each symbol represents different fixtures and their functions, helping designers create the right atmosphere, focus attention, and enhance storytelling in performances. Here’s a breakdown of essential lighting fixtures.

1. Ellipsoidal Reflector Spotlight (ERS)

   • Provides a sharp, focused beam of light ideal for highlighting specific areas or performers.
   • Features adjustable lens options for varying beam angles and focus.
   • Commonly used for front lighting, creating strong, defined shadows.

2. Fresnel

   • Produces a soft, diffused light with a wide beam spread, suitable for general lighting.
   • Adjustable lens allows for control over the beam's focus and intensity.
   • Often used for wash lighting and creating a warm ambiance on stage.

3. PAR (Parabolic Aluminized Reflector)

   • Delivers a strong, intense beam with a fixed focus, often used for color washes and effects.
   • Available in various beam spreads, from narrow to wide, depending on the lens used.
   • Commonly used in concerts and theatrical productions for dynamic lighting effects.

4. Moving Light

   • Capable of pan, tilt, and color changes, allowing for dynamic and versatile lighting designs.
   • Often includes features like gobo projection and strobe effects for added creativity.
   • Essential for modern productions, providing flexibility in lighting cues and effects.

5. LED Fixture

   • Energy-efficient lighting option with a long lifespan and low heat output.
   • Capable of producing a wide range of colors and effects, often programmable.
   • Increasingly popular for both stage and architectural lighting due to versatility.

6. Followspot

   • A specialized spotlight designed to track and illuminate a specific performer or area on stage.
   • Operated manually, allowing for precise control over focus, intensity, and color.
   • Essential for highlighting soloists or key moments in a performance.

7. Cyclorama Light

   • Used to illuminate a cyclorama (cyc) backdrop, creating a smooth wash of color.
   • Typically mounted above the stage to provide even lighting across the backdrop.
   • Useful for setting the mood or atmosphere of a scene through color changes.

8. Strip Light

   • A linear lighting fixture that provides a wash of light across a wide area.
   • Often used for border lighting or to create a gradient effect on stage.
   • Can be equipped with color gels or LED technology for varied color options.

9. Practical

   • Any light source that is part of the set design and visible to the audience, such as lamps or candles.
   • Adds realism to the scene and can be used to enhance the overall lighting design.
   • Often used in conjunction with other lighting fixtures to create a cohesive look.

10. Gobo

    • A stencil or template placed in front of a light source to project patterns or images.
    • Used to create textures, shapes, or thematic elements in a lighting design.
    • Can be combined with color filters for added visual effects.

11. Color Scroller

    • A device that allows for the quick change of colors in a lighting fixture.
    • Typically used with conventional lights to create dynamic color effects during a performance.
    • Enhances the versatility of lighting designs by allowing for rapid transitions.

12. Dimmer

    • Controls the intensity of the light output from a fixture, allowing for smooth transitions and effects.
    • Essential for creating mood and atmosphere through varying light levels.
    • Can be controlled manually or through a lighting console for precise adjustments.

13. Circuit Number

    • Identifies the specific electrical circuit to which a lighting fixture is connected.
    • Important for troubleshooting and ensuring proper power distribution in a lighting system.
    • Helps in organizing and managing the lighting setup during production.

14. Channel Number

    • Refers to the control channel assigned to a lighting fixture in a lighting console.
    • Allows for individual control of each fixture's intensity, color, and effects.
    • Essential for programming cues and managing complex lighting designs.

15. Focus Point

    • The specific area or object that a lighting fixture is aimed at to create emphasis.
    • Critical for directing the audience's attention and enhancing storytelling.
    • Involves careful planning and adjustment to achieve the desired visual impact.