Concert lighting is designed to create moods and enhance the musical performance. Preference is given to programmed lighting "scenes" with colors and special effects, rather than focusing solely on performer illumination. Back and side "wash" and "flood" lighting is favored, along with fixed and movable spotlights. "Specials," such as strobes, robotic moving fixtures, lasers and other effects are used at key points during the show.
The best concert stage lighting methods employ PAR-type flood and wash lights, mounted on raised stands or lighting trusses, placed behind the performers and the sides of the stage. One or more fixtures of each desired color is used, with the fixtures aimed toward the performance areas. White or colored spotlights are mounted at the front of the stage, above the performers. In larger venues, followspots are used, which are operated by technicians located at the rear of the hall. Specials are placed to achieve maximum audience visibility of the lighting effect.
Stage lighting for theatrical plays is designed not only to create moods, but to illuminate the performers' facial expressions and movements. Theatrical lighting is also designed to simulate room lighting, day and night, or changes of time or location, and to add special effects. Overhead and front lighting is the preferred layout for plays and other theatrical work, and subdued floor lighting is often present.
The best theatrical lighting methods employ diffused and filtered Fresnel-type lighting fixtures, mounted on elevated stands or trusses, placed above and in front of the stage. Back and floor-mounted wash lights are used to reinforce the overall lighting scheme. Pastel colors are favored to simulate natural light, with more intense colors added for special emphasis. Fixed and follow spotlights are used sparingly.
Stage lighting is often transparent and low-key when used for speeches, ceremonies and seminars. Its main purpose is to illuminate the speaker and create a lighting mood that is comfortable for the audience, without being distracting to the event or speaker. Carefully placed washes and floodlights, filtered with muted whites and subdued colors, are typically used.
Best presentation lighting methods include the use of filtered Fresnel and PAR flood and wash lights, mounted on elevated stands or trusses, and placed above and in front of the speaker and stage area. Floor lighting is sometimes added for illumination reinforcement.