Build confidence. Light smart. Deliver pro results — even without a design background.
Lighting often feels like a black box to non-specialists — but it doesn’t have to. Whether you're running a gala, keynote, or performance stage, understanding a few core concepts can help you make solid lighting decisions, avoid common pitfalls, and make your show look polished and professional.
Let’s break down what you need to know — using real-world gear from Eagle AV.
What Does Lighting Actually Do?
At its best, lighting doesn’t just illuminate — it elevates. Here’s what great lighting can do for your event:
Focus attention on speakers, performers, or branded elements
Create mood and atmosphere through color, intensity, and movement
Enhance visibility for cameras, livestreams, or photography
Shape the audience experience — from clean and corporate to immersive and energetic
Get to Know the Main Fixture Types
You don’t need to know every fixture by name, but knowing what each type of light does will help you make smarter calls.
➔ Moving Heads (Dynamic, Positionable Fixtures)
Great for concerts, dance floors, or adding visual energy to transitions.
Eagle-Available Examples:
Chauvet Rogue R1 BeamWash – Compact and versatile
Ayrton Rivale Profile – Punchy, profile-style moving head with full gobos
Clay Paky Mythos 2 – Beam/spot hybrid ideal for impact moments
Static Wash Lights
Use these for stage wash, architectural uplighting, or scenic elements.
Eagle Offers:
Chauvet COLORado PXL Bar 16 – Pixel-mappable for creative wall washes
Portman P1 Mini LED – Eye-candy + soft front fill
Chauvet Color Strike M – Strobe and wash in one fixture
Ellipsoidals & Spotlights
Used to focus light on presenters, signage, or stages with surgical precision.
Go-to Fixtures:
Chauvet Ovation E-910FC – Full color ellipsoidal with adjustable beam
ETC Source Four 750 – Classic high-output Leko spotlight
Chauvet 120ST Follow Spot – Long-throw follow spot for stage tracking
Pinspots & String Lights
Perfect for accents and ambiance — think table decor, signage, or tent lighting.
Your Options Include:
EZ Pin Zoom Kit (4ct) – Quick-deploy, zoomable pin spots
Rasha 20ct Pinspot Kit – Reliable white accent lighting
Warm White LED String Lights – Ambient overhead or perimeter design
Haze and Atmosphere
Lighting needs haze to show itself. A clean atmosphere can make or break your beam effects.
What You’ll Find:
Basic Lighting Techniques You Can Actually Use
Even without console training, you can apply these foundational ideas:
1. Light Your Subject First
Make sure speakers, panels, or performers are clearly visible and flattering.
Use ellipsoidals for face light. Add wash fixtures from opposing angles for balance.
2. Use Color to Define Space or Emotion
Warm tones (amber, gold) = cozy or elegant
Cool tones (blue, violet) = modern, sleek
Bold colors (magenta, cyan) = high energy
Try using the Chauvet COLORado PXL Curve or Color Strike M to create these looks.
3. Don’t Overdo Movement
If you're using moving heads like the Mythos 2 or Dartz 360, build cues that move with purpose — not just for the sake of motion.
4. Use Haze for Beam Definition
No haze = no visible beams. Use the MDG ATMe in large rooms or the Magma Prime in tighter spaces.
What About Lighting Control?
If you're nervous about programming, ask us about pre-configured show files or simplified control setups.
Popular Consoles We Rent:
ChamSys MQ500M Stadium – Great for experienced LDs
GrandMA3 Lite – Industry-standard for complex cueing
MQ PC Wing Compact – Portable, approachable, and versatile
Need a wireless solution? The WDMX G6 F2 or Lumen Radio Stardust can make cable runs a non-issue.
Quick Reminders for Non-Lighting Techs
Walk your space in person if possible — get a feel for ceiling height, wall color, and throw distances.
Sketch a basic layout — where the stage is, where the lights will be hung or placed, and where power comes from.
Keep circuits balanced — and know how much draw your lighting rig is pulling (especially if haze is in play).
Label your DMX — chaos starts with untracked cabling.
Ready to Light Your Next Event?
You don’t need to be a lighting designer to make smart decisions.
You just need:
That’s what we’re here for.
Need help planning your lighting package?
Check out our Support & FAQ Center or contact our team to get lighting that fits your space, budget, and goals.
