Lighting Director (Film, Theater, Broadcasting)
らいてぃんぐでぃれくたー（えいが、えんげき、ほうそう）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Specialist serving as lighting director for films, theater, and TV broadcasts, responsible for planning performance setups using lighting equipment to on-site lighting operations.
Description
The lighting director creates lighting plans based on scripts and directorial intent, selects and arranges lighting equipment, and performs dimming operations using control consoles. Collaborating with clients, directors, and cinematographers, they design optimal light environments for scenes to shape the atmosphere of shoots or stage performances. On site, they handle unexpected issues while operating equipment safely and efficiently, contributing to overall production quality improvement.
Future Outlook
With growing demand for video content and stage performances, the importance of lighting direction is increasing. The adoption of LED technology and smart lighting systems is introducing new expression methods continuously, and the market value of lighting directors with expertise and cutting-edge technology is expected to rise further.
Personality Traits
Cooperative / Excellent aesthetic sense / Flexible responder / High concentration / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Business trips / Freelance / Production company affiliation / Project-based / Shift
Career Path
Lighting Assistant → Lighting Technician → Lighting Director → Senior Lighting Director → Lighting direction producer
Required Skills
CAD operation / DMX control console operation / Electrical equipment installation / Lighting direction planning / Use of measuring instruments
Recommended Skills
Lighting simulation / Previs / Projection mapping / Reading English technical documents
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Ability to quickly adapt to changes in weather or site conditions is necessary. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because subtle differences in illuminance or color temperature greatly affect video quality. |
| Communication Skills | High interpersonal coordination skills are needed for meetings with directors and staff, and on-site instructions. |
| Creativity & Ideation | Creative lighting plan ideas are required to create scene atmospheres. |
| Planning & Organization | Accurate handling of equipment and staff arrangements, schedule management, etc., is necessary. |
| Problem Solving | Must flexibly and promptly respond to unexpected troubles on site. |
| Stress Tolerance | Mental resilience to endure tight production schedules and long work hours is required. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | To collaborate with lighting teams and other departments for comprehensive direction. |
Aliases
- Lighting Designer
- Lighting Director
Related Jobs
- Cinematographer
- Director
- Scenic Designer
- Sound Director
- Video Producer