An oldie but goodie, mirror balls create a classic disco feel that can be used as is or modernized by adding color or mixing the effect with updated technology. These balls are spheres that are covered with tiny square mirrors, each one reflecting the light in a different direction, creating a pattern of light circles on the floor and walls. Usually, the balls are hooked to motors that can spin them at a range of speeds, making the light circles dance. Use two lights on opposite sides of the mirror ball for a classic look, or add more lights of differing colors from other angles to modernize the effect and add more variety to the look.
Many DJ lights split a light beam from a single source into multiple beams that move, pulse, change color or carry out a combination of these things. The commonly used "moonflower" effect is one example. These instruments generally project multiple small beams in three or four different colors, and they can be set to shift between each color or color combination, either at a timed rate or through sound activation, making the light seem to dance to the beat of the music. Laser lighting effects also make use of split beams to create multiple tiny light rays from a single source.
Strobe lights flash on and off at a high level, repeating the pattern either to a timer or through sound activation. Bright white strobes can be used to create the feeling that everyone in the room is moving in slow motion. Colored strobes can be used by themselves for the same effect or in conjunction with other lights to add a feeling of urgency through their rapid flashing. Many split beam lighting effect instruments have the ability to strobe, meaning they will pulse on and off. However, because their room illumination is limited, they are not generally as effective at creating the slow-motion effect strobes are known for.
Lights with beams that seem to move are generally fitted with a motor-controlled mirror that can shift the beam of light in a variety of directions. Some DJ moving lights can be programmed to operate independently, shifting in set patterns to timing or sound, but others require control through a lighting console.