OCG Lighting Key Terms Flashcards
(22 cards)
Profile
Profiles create focused light for actors or set details. They also work well as lanterns for gobos, with a gate at the front to hold the gobo or gel.
Gobo
A thin metal or glass template placed in front of a light source to project a pattern or image onto a surface
Gel
A transparent coloured material placed in front of a light source to change the colour of the light
Intensity
The brightness or level of illumination produced by a lighting instrument
Dimmer
A device used to control the intensity of a light source
Spot
A tightly focused beam of light used to highlight a specific area or performer
Wash
A broad and even distribution of light used to cover a large area of the stage
Crossfade
The gradual transition between two lighting cues or states
Blackout
The sudden and complete absence of stage lighting
Follow-spot
A high-intensity spotlight operated manually to follow a performer on stage
Backlight
Light that is positioned behind a performer to separate them from the background
Side light
Light that comes from the sides of the stage - used to create depth and dimension
Top light
Light that comes from above - used to illuminate the entire stage
Colour temperature
The perceived “warmth” or “coolness” of a light source measured in Kelvin
Colour temperature for “Our Country’s Good”
“Our Country’s Good” is set in late 18th-century Australia during British colonisation. For lighting, warm colour temperatures like 3000K or 3500K might be suitable. These warmer tones can enhance the period setting and emphasise the human connections portrayed in the story.
Why would you have an evolving lighting design?
OCG is a play that unfolds over time - with the characters evolving and the story progressing. I would reflect this evolution in the lighting design by subtly adapting the lighting cues as the play unfolds.
What would the use of an evolving lighting design involve?
The lighting could start off with a more subdued and gritty feel in the early scenes and gradually become brighter and more vibrant as the characters find hope and redemption
Why would you use practical lighting?
Given the historical context of the play (where candles and lanterns were the primary sources of light) I would incorporate practical lighting elements to enhance the authenticity
What would the use of practical lighting involve?
This could involve using practical fixtures on stage (such as lanterns or candles) that are integrated into the design and serve as functional light sources for the actors
What is the effect of blending practical and stage lighting?
I can create a seamless and immersive experience for the audience
Caitlin Smith Rapport lighting designer quote
“lighting design begins with dramaturgy”
What is dramaturgy?
Dramaturgy is the study and practice of the art of dramatic composition - analysing and interpreting plays in order to enhance their meaning and impact
