Select the lights that will be used to create the special lighting effects. The most common lights that are used are Fresnel lights and Ellipsoidal lights. Both are spotlights used on production sets. Fresnel spotlights have a lens that contains circular rings which disperse light beams evenly. Ellipsoidal spotlights are long tubular lights that can illuminate an area of the stage precisely. Ellipsoidal lights also have a slot where cut metal sheets called gobos can be placed for extra effects, similar to the way the Batman logo is projected.
Create a lighting plan. Map the stage using pencil and paper. Mark the areas where props will be placed, talent will perform and where cameras will be positioned. Draw the lights into the plan exactly how they will be placed on the set.
Block the areas where the host and talent will be performing. Blocking is done by placing small strips of gaffers tape or masking tape on the floor, where the talent and host will be standing or placed. This will give lighting technicians a better idea of how to properly position the lights.
Choose the color gels and gobos to be used. Set them aside once chosen and gather the gobo and gel holders. Place the color gels and the designed gobo into the holders by opening the holders like a book. Place the gel and gobos inside and close them upon completion.
Place the gel holders in the front of the light lens, through the gel holder slots. Leave the ellipsoidal and Fresnel lights off during this process. Turn the small clamps at the top front ends of the lights to secure the gel holder. Color gels can also be placed over barn doors. Barn doors are four metal-hinged slats placed in front of spotlights to control the direction of emitted light. Select a gel that is large enough to fit over the barn doors. Clip the gel to each side of the doors using wood clothespins, also known as C47s.
Place the gobo holder in the gobo slot of the ellipsoidal light. The slot can be found in the midsection of the light, near the handle. Two or more gobos can be placed in the gobo slot to create an intricate design. Using leather work gloves, turn the lights on to ensure that the proper lighting effects have been created using the gels and gobos.
Turn the lights on and position them according to the floor plan. Adjust the lights by panning them left or right and tilting them up or down. Flood the lights to fill the stage area, or spot them to focus on a specific area by moving the focus knob that is located on the right or back side of the lights.