What does a Lighting Designer do?

A Lighting Designer will work with all members of the production team, particularly the Director, Designer and Lighting Technicians. They will design the look and feel of the lighting, lasers, strobes, spots and sometimes video for a performance. Lighting Designers play a crucial role in enhancing the storytelling visually.

What are the main responsibilities of a Lighting Designer?

Collaborating with the creative team to come up with ideas
Creatively design the lighting while also lighting the stage practically
Be aware of health and safety aspects
Write a lighting plot/script by using computer-aided design (CAD) software or hand-drawn diagrams to plot the lighting design
Note where there are any lighting changes to the design
Attend some initial meetings and rehearsals
Attend technical rehearsals to ensure your lighting plan is cohesive and operable
Be aware of budgets and energy use

Find opportunities in lighting design from across the theatre industry here

What qualifications do I need to be a Lighting Designer?

While you do not need a degree for this role, here are some useful subjects and courses that you can study to gain knowledge and experience.

School subjects that are relevant for lighting design are:

Drama and Theatre Studies
Art and Design
Electronics
Physics
Photography
Media Studies

Further education at colleges or universities:

Lighting Design and Technology
Technical Theatre
Theatre Lighting Design
Electrical Engineering

Find training opportunities in lighting design to help you get into theatre here

What skills do I need to be a Lighting Designer?

Technical skills and knowledge
Programming skills
Ability to work under pressure to tight deadlines
Good communicator
Excellent colour vision
Creativity
Theatre knowledge

What does a career in lighting design look like?

You could start as Crew or a Lighting Technician/Theatre Technician and then, once you have more experience, move into a Lighting Designer role. With all of your work, it is best to keep production images and a portfolio. Find out how to make a portfolio here.

How much can a Lighting Designer earn?

Most Lighting Designers are employed on a freelance basis, meaning that you are self-employed. In bigger theatres, some employ a resident Lighting Designer which pays an annual salary, however this is rare. Your fee as a freelance Lighting Designer can vary from a daily rate to a larger fee for the completion of the whole show.

The above is a guide. Pay, salary or fee can vary depending on the theatre or company, as well as your personal experience. National institutions or commercial productions can pay in excess of the above, with profit-share or community theatre paying less.

You can find theatre jobs via The Stage Jobs here