灯光艺术家

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Related roles: Lighting Technical Director, Lighting Specialist, Lighting Supervisor, Lighting Compositor, Lighting and Rendering Artist, Lighting and Shading Artist, Illumination Artist, CG Lighting Artist, Lighting TD (Technical Director), Visual Effects Lighting Artist

聚光灯

类似标题

Lighting Technical Director, Lighting Specialist, Lighting Supervisor, Lighting Compositor, Lighting and Rendering Artist, Lighting and Shading Artist, Illumination Artist, CG Lighting Artist, Lighting TD (Technical Director), Visual Effects Lighting Artist

工作描述

Have you ever watched a movie or played a video game and thought, “Wow, that’s some great lighting!”?

If not, you’re not the only one. Most audiences don’t think about all the work that goes into creating dynamic, realistic lighting effects. And yet, without those effects, we’d certainly notice the difference! Working closely with directors, cinematographers, and other artists, they ensure lighting complements every scene's tone, setting, action, and artistry.

Despite often being overlooked, Lighting Artists play a major role in film, TV, video game, and theatrical productions. They create and manipulate lighting effects to enhance scenes and environments, making them appear more dramatic and visually appealing. Whether it’s highlighting an actor’s facial expression, creating a moody nighttime ambiance, or spotlighting the dancers on a stage, their work can be seen in virtually every second of any given production. 

职业生涯的回报
  • Enhancing visual storytelling through creative lighting techniques
  • Collaborating with diverse teams to achieve a unified artistic vision
  • Seeing the immediate impact of your work on the production’s visual quality
  • Opportunities to work on a variety of projects in different media
标题
2024 就业
27,000
2034 年预计就业人数
29,000
内幕消息
工作职责

工作日程

  • Lighting Artists typically work full-time, with overtime needed to meet production deadlines. They may work in studios, on location, or in theaters. Some work on a per-project basis.

典型职责

  • Analyze scripts and storyboards to determine lighting requirements for each scene
  • Develop lighting concepts that align with the overall visual style and mood
  • Provide input during pre-production meetings to shape the project’s visual narrative
  • Coordinate with the art department to integrate lighting plans with set designs and props
  • Manage the setup, operation, and maintenance of lighting equipment on set or location
  • Ensure lighting equipment is calibrated and functioning before and during production
  1. Common lighting equipment used in films includes Fresnel lights, Parabolic Aluminized Reflector lights, Hydrargyrum Medium-Arc Iodide lights, LED panels, tungsten lights, Kino Flo lights, softboxes, Dedo lights, Century Stands, and reflectors
  • Work with various lighting effects software programs, especially for virtual productions, computer-generated graphics, video games, etc.
  • Implement lighting effects such as shadows, highlights, and color grading
  • Adjust lighting setups to accommodate changes in camera angles or scene-blocking

额外责任

  • Stay informed about emerging lighting technologies and trends
  • Ensure compliance with safety standards and protocols
  • Train and mentor junior lighting artists and technicians
工作中需要的技能

软技能

  • 适应性
  • 注重细节
  • 在压力下保持冷静
  • 协作性
  • 沟通技巧
  • 概念化的技能
  • 创造性
  • 果断性
  • 注重细节
  • 同理心
  • 灵活性
  • 耐心
  • 坚持不懈
  • 解决问题的能力
  • 团队合作
  • Visual storytelling

技术技能

  • Basic cinematography and visual effects knowledge
  • 色彩理论
  • Framing and staging shots
  • Industry-standard software like Maya, Houdini, Chaos, Arnold, RenderMan, and Photoshop
  • Real-time rendering engines such as Unreal Engine
  • Lighting instruments and equipment such as Fresnel lights, Parabolic Aluminized Reflector lights, Hydrargyrum Medium-Arc Iodide lights, LED panels, tungsten lights, Kino Flo lights, softboxes, Dedo lights, Century Stands, and reflectors
  • Physical and digital lighting rigs
  • Technical troubleshooting on set and in post-production
  • General understanding of the roles of different production departments
不同类型的组织
  • 广告和公关公司
  • Animation studios
  • Film and television production companies
  • Freelance or independent work
  • Performing arts venues (theater, concerts, dances, exhibitions, etc.)
  • 电视广播
  • Video game studios
期望与牺牲

Lighting Artists must produce visually compelling lighting that enhances productions that are often very expensive. Thus, the pressure is on to ensure things are done right the first time, to avoid delays and potential cost overruns.

In addition, Lighting Artists often work in challenging environments such as outdoor locations, where they must adapt to changing weather and natural light. They have to stay flexible in case of last-minute changes that require adjusting lighting setups.

Effective collaboration is crucial since Lighting Artists must coordinate with different departments, including cinematography, art direction, and post-production, to ensure a cohesive visual aesthetic. The job can be demanding at times, with long hours and pressure to meet deadlines. But the rewards of seeing your work on screen or stage can be very fulfilling! 

当前趋势

Within the lighting industry, there’s an increased focus on sustainability and eco-friendly lighting practices, such as LED options that reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. Digital lighting techniques and virtual production are also more common, allowing Lighting Artists to create dynamic, flexible setups in CGI environments. In addition, the integration of lighting with other visual effects such as augmented and virtual reality is pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved in visual storytelling!

从事这一职业的人在年轻时喜欢做什么样的事情......

Growing up, Lighting Artists may have enjoyed photography and experimenting with light and shadows. They might have also participated in theater productions, helping with stage lights or other setups. 

需要的教育和培训
  • Lighting Artists often obtain a bachelor’s degree in film production, theater arts, or a related field
  • 相关课程可包括
  1. 3D Lighting and Rendering
  2. Cinematography
  3. 色彩理论
  4. Digital lighting software
  5. Interactive Lighting in Virtual Production
  6. Light and Shadow in Visual Storytelling
  7. Lighting for Animation
  8. Lighting for Green Screen and Compositing
  9. Lighting for High Dynamic Range (HDR) Imaging
  10. Photometric Analysis for Film and Theater
  11. Set Design and Lighting Integration
  12. Stage Lighting Design
  • Note, a college degree is not always a strict requirement for becoming a Lighting Artist. Many have been able to qualify for their job through alternative means such as:
  1. On-the-job training, starting as an assistant or lighting technician
  2. Apprenticeships working under experienced Lighting Designers or Gaffers
  3. Workshops and short courses focused on lighting for film
  4. Self-study and practice using online resources and tutorials
  5. Freelance work on small independent projects
  6. Certifications in lighting software and equipment such as credentials in Autodesk Maya, Houdini, Chaos, Arnold, Unreal Engine, lighting consoles like ETC’s Eos or MA Lighting’s GrandMA, or DaVinci Resolve
  • 其他证书包括。
  1. International Association of Lighting Designers - Certified Lighting Designer
  2. International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees - Certified Film Lighting Technician
  3. Unreal Engine - Virtual Production Lighting Certification
  4. Unity Technologies - Real-Time Lighting for Video Games Certification
在大学里需要寻找的东西
  • 考虑学费、折扣和当地奖学金机会(除联邦补助外)。
  • Think about your schedule and flexibility when deciding whether to enroll in an on-campus, online, or hybrid program. Ideally, you’ll want as much hands-on practice as you can get.
  • Check out the program’s faculty accomplishments to see what projects they’ve worked on.
  • Look closely at the school’s facilities and the equipment and software that students train on.
  • See if the program offers opportunities for hands-on learning through internships or cooperative education with production companies.
  • Review job placement stats and details about the program’s alumni network.
高中和大学的事情
  • Take courses in lighting design, cinematography, photography, and digital lighting software
  • Gain experience through internships or part-time jobs in film, TV, or theater production focusing on lighting
  • Build a portfolio or demo reel of your work, including lighting setups and designs from various projects
  • Stay informed about current trends in film lighting and visual effects
  • Attend film festivals, lighting workshops, and industry events. Network with professionals in the lighting and cinematography industry. Join professional organizations for lighting artists
  • Join audiovisual clubs or volunteer for school or community theater productions to gain hands-on lighting experience. Seek a mentor who can guide you through education and training choices
    Start working on small film projects, focusing on lighting design, and share them on platforms like YouTube or Vimeo
  • Study books, articles, and video tutorials related to lighting design and cinematography (see our list of Resources > Websites)
  • Get to know the major departments of film productions to understand how lighting interacts with other elements
  • Watch films and behind-the-scenes videos. Study the use of lighting, effects, and camera work
  • Take notes on techniques used in different genres and scenes
  • Borrow or rent lighting equipment to get practical experience and experiment with different setups
  • Get familiar with video editing software and how lighting choices impact post-production
  • Advertise your freelance lighting services in the local area or online to gain experience
  • Apply for film and theater internships focusing on lighting design until you land one
典型线路图
Lighting Artist Roadmap
如何找到你的第一份工作
  • Use job portals like Indeed and industry-specific websites like Staff Me Up to find opportunities
  • Prepare a strong portfolio, demo reel, and resume to highlight your skills and experience
  • Review Lighting Artist resume templates to get ideas for formatting and phrasing
  • Notice the keywords used in job postings and try to work those into your resume. Keywords might include:
  1. Color Grading
  2. 合成
  3. Lighting Design
  4. Mood Lighting
  5. Photorealistic
  6. Rendering
  7. Scene Optimization
  8. Shading
  9. 视觉效果
  • Utilize your school’s career services for job search assistance, resume writing, and interviewing
  • Ask your program if they have industry connections that could help you  
  • Let your network know you are looking for jobs or internships, as many opportunities are filled through personal and professional connections
  • Participate in industry conferences and expos to showcase your work
  • Chances are you’ll have to apply for entry-level jobs and work your way up to higher roles. Many Lighting Artists start as assistants or interns
  • Build your reputation and ensure your work is seen by entering film festivals, promoting your work on social media, and getting published in industry journals or on popular websites
  • Move to where the most film and TV jobs are, such as California, New York, Texas, Florida, and Georgia
  • Hop on forums and start asking job advice questions and requesting answers from working professionals
  • 问问你的教授、主管和同行,他们是否愿意作为个人推荐人
  • Study interview questions such as “How do you approach creating lighting that enhances the mood and atmosphere of a scene while maintaining visual consistency across multiple shots?” or “Can you describe a challenging project where you had to creatively solve a lighting issue? What was the problem, and how did you address it?
  • Always dress appropriately for job interview success
如何爬梯子
  • Consistently deliver innovative, high-quality lighting effects
  • Seek additional training and certifications in lighting software and equipment such as credentials in Autodesk Maya, Houdini, Chaos, Arnold, Unreal Engine, lighting consoles like ETC’s Eos or MA Lighting’s GrandMA, or DaVinci Resolve
  • 其他证书包括。
  1. International Association of Lighting Designers - Certified Lighting Designer
  2. International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees - Certified Film Lighting Technician
  3. Unreal Engine - Virtual Production Lighting Certification
  4. Unity Technologies - Real-Time Lighting for Video Games Certification
  • Participate in industry conferences and events to gain exposure
  • Develop an online presence to market your work
  • Continue learning more about everyone else’s roles
  • Treat people with respect, always be well-prepared, and stay calm under pressure
  • Watch and learn from more senior Lighting Artists. Listen to assistant directors, department leads, and crew members, too! 
  • Train and mentor new staff so they can grow professionally
  • Join professional organizations and try to win awards or recognition
B计划

Lighting is a lot more complicated than many people realize, and the field is evolving quickly as filmmaking becomes more digitized and video games are getting more realistic. It’s a dynamic and challenging career field, but like any job, it’s not a perfect fit for everyone. If you’re curious about some alternative careers, consider related roles such as:

  • 动画师
  • 建筑插图画家
  • 艺术总监    
  • 摄像师    
  • 儿童读物插画师
  • 舞蹈编导    
  • 摄像师
  • 漫画家
  • Commercial Lighting Designer
  • 法庭素描艺术家
  • Fashion Illustrator
  • 电影和视频编辑
  • Fine Artist
  • Gaffer
  • 平面设计师
  • 插画师
  • 医学插图画家
  • Residential Lighting Designer
  • 布景设计师
  • 声音设计师
  • 特效师    
  • Stage Manager
  • 故事板艺术家
  • 纹身艺术家
  • 技术插画师
  • 作家

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