A person cannot call themselves a DJ without lighting. Once these individuals have the basics, they immediately pick up a light or two. While they know music is the basis of their performance, lighting is the icing. However, a person can quickly become confused by the many options available today. What are some basic types of DJ lighting, and what should a person consider when picking up new lights?
The Most Important Rule
When purchasing lighting for a DJ, never buy based on looks alone. Many people do so only to regret the purchase. Each light has a specific purpose that must be considered when purchasing.
Wash lighting sends a broad, diffuse light beam over a large expanse. People often refer to this as a flood light, and it is an essential component of any DJ’s work toolbox. The goal is to fill an area with light without overhead lighting. Wash lighting encourages socializing and partying. Every DJ needs a good set of wash lights before their first event.
Moving heads or scanners are connected to a motor that sends light beams around the space. Scanners are lights with movable mirrors tasked with directing these light beams. The beams move through color filters and shape lenses to create different patterns. In the past, most DJs could not afford moving heads. Thankfully, the price has decreased over the years, and any DJ can now benefit from them. The DJ controls the speed at which the light beams move and can use an automatic program to control them or invest in a DMX controller.
Uplights
Mini DJs invest in uplights to project light upward from the floor. These compact lights run on batteries. The lights can be used in various locations depending on the desired ambiance. They can also be set to a single color or change colors based on the DJ’s preferences.
Effect Lighting
Effect lighting comes in many forms. People are familiar with disco balls and strobes, but other options are available. The goal of these lights is to add variety to the show, and they are affordable. However, a DJ should not invest much money in effect lighting. Many people don’t prefer this type of lighting at their events, so it won’t be in high demand.
Lighting Specs
Once people know the different types of lights available, they must consider the various options. Knowing some basic terminology will help when comparing different lights.
Lumens must be the top priority when comparing lights. The lumens value determines the brightness of the light. Higher numbers mean brighter lights. Countless individuals think watts are a measure of brightness, but it is not. This number provides information about how much power the light pulls when used. DJs must know the watts of their lighting setup to ensure it won’t trip a breaker. Fortunately, most DJs don’t have lighting setups that consume this amount of electricity.
Individuals must compare other things when purchasing DJ lighting. They must know the LED type, beam angle, gobo wheels, and DMX control. The buyer should also know the battery power of each light and how long the battery will last before needing to be recharged.
With this information, any DJ can buy a lighting setup that meets their needs. Over time, they will wish to expand on the lighting setup. However, once the basics are in place, they can determine which lighting will enhance their events and what items are unnecessary. A DJ lighting setup is not a one-size-fits-all scenario, and it should not be treated as such.
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