Episode 14 – Moving Lights – When and Why Should You Use Them?




The Learn Stage Lighting Podcast show

Summary: <a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.learnstagelighting.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Podcast-Image-1.png?ssl=1"></a>Lighting News!<br> This week we have no updates as the NAB and Pro Light and Sound Trade Shows ended last week and took all the thunder!<br> Main Segment<br> Moving Lights are often referred as “Automated Lights” which is a light that you are able to remotely control with a DMX.<br> Along with the ability to move, these lights also have features such as color mixing, color wheel, shutters, gobos, frost, focus, zoom, and anything that you would want could be packed into a moving light.<br> Do You Need Moving Lights?<br> Moving lights can be a great feature in your lighting, but do you actually need them?<br> If you’re looking for an active light on you stage then this would be an obvious yes! However, these lights can also be used if you need a light that is not moving, but changes colors, gobos, or needs to be in multiple positions over the course of a show or service.<br> The Cons of Moving Lights<br> While moving lights are great to have there are some things you should consider.<br> If you have a DMX Controller that isn’t able to handle the functions of a moving light then you may want to upgrade your controller.<br> Personally, I recommend checking to see if your controller was designed to work with moving lights in mind.<br> If you’re not sure I would recommend checking on Learn Stage Lighting, YouTube, or check forums to see what others may be saying.<br> The Cost Aspect of Moving Lights<br> Originally, most moving lights were discharge moving lights.<br> A discharge moving light has a lot of great features but the downside is the discharge lamp. The discharge lamps have a limited life (often 750, 1000, or 1500 hours) and will need to be replaced as they hit their hours.  These lamps are also quite expensive (generally $100-$300).<br> Many newer moving lights have LED sources.<br> If you’re purchasing a new moving light I highly recommend getting a LED fixture.  With the exemption of the brightest needs, most are going with LED.<br> LED spot fixtures still carry a slightly higher price than their discharge counterparts, but over the long haul, it’s worth it.<br> The benefit of LED is a long life on the light engine, which will significantly outlast your lamp.<br> Another benefit is that the LED actually runs a lot cooler. Heat can really cause stress to your equipment. LEDs do cost more up front BUT long term they will help save you money.<br> Moving Lights Will Break<br> Every moving light will break at some point.<br> They do have moving parts that will eventually need maintenance.<br> With a lot of use, the moving lights over time need to be repaired so this is something to keep in mind before investing in these types of lights.<br> Fan Noise<br> Lastly, something to keep in mind is the fan noise.<br> For some, the less expensive lights are the way to go but do expect louder fans. If the environment is a church, theater, or any quiet setting it is important to consider the fan noise.<br> The more expensive fans are generally much quieter and the same would go for the motors.<br> Moving lights can be a great addition to your stage but the most important piece of advice I can recommend is really considering the cost. I found a great article that helps you with what to expect cost wise:<br> <a href="https://www.churchproduction.com/education/full-disclosure-what-every-church-needs-to-know-before-investing-in-moving/">https://www.churchproduction.com/education/full-disclosure-what-every-church-needs-to-know-before-investing-in-moving/</a><br> Mailbag:<br> If you’re new to lighting and looking to learn quickly about what you can do with lights be sure to check out the link below.<br> You’ll get access to step by step videos as well as access to forums where you can work with others who are do...