A quick search of "event lighting failure" doesn't really reveal much-unless you want to learn about how LEDs fail and how to keep the power on. Truth be told, there are alot of ways besides a complete Power failure that event lighting can be a Flop. Some times its lack of knowledge or actual equipment failure, Other times its just inattention to detail. Here are 5 things learned over the years to help ensure your event lighting is not a flop.
1)Equipment-Round peg in a square hole?
Proper equipment is the first place to start. Make sure you are using the right equipment for the right job. Surprisingly this can be more complex than just proper size, & Quantity. Are you using a "flood" light when you really need a "spot" light. Do you need a warm white or cool white? Make sure not to choose form over function. Its important that event lighting be compact and attractive if possible, but actual function is probably more important. When it comes to equipment just remember its all in the details. Having a variety different lights is always a good idea. There will always be "that one area" that you didn't think of that you wish had the perfect light for.
2)Power-Are you on the edge of a brown out?
While tripping a breaker might be a thing of the past thanks to LED technology, When it comes to power there are still quite a few pitfalls to be on the look out for. Understanding what power is available to you & the needs of the entire event it critical. (Are there any energy hogs like a coffee pot?) Make sure power usage is balanced over multiple circuits breakers if possible. This will not only reduce your chance of blowing a breaker, but if you do, you wont be completely in the dark. Keeping the DJ equipment & Lighting equipment on a separate Circuit or at very least power strip is always a good idea as well. Keeping your power runs simple and organized Is ideal. Design it with the concept of quick expansion or changes in mind. Create Multiple "zones" by bringing Plenty of power strips-the kind with switches. This will allow you to add and remove equipment easily mid event without "taking out" anything else. "Daisy chaining power" to the lights can be good in some applications but is generally not the best idea.
3) Safety-Will your guests be safe?
It can probably be argued that safety should be the first item of the list, but hey at least its not number 5. Chances are your event wont be as bright as your cubical at work.(Especially after the sun goes down) Reduce the likely hood of tripping & keep it high heel friendly by ensuring there is enough lighting by stairs, exits, cords, light poles & other obstacles. Full knowledge of lighting controls is also essential. In case of emergency make sure you know how the controls work in case you need to turn them all on quickly. (Dont forget house lighting) When it comes to equipment and set up, make sure any cabling is properly secured, correctly sized and in good condition. Surge protector(s) should also be used as an added measure of safety. Finally Keep It calm, too much strobe or high intensity can literally make people sick-make sure you keep this in mind.
4)Be Prepared-Do you have a back up plan?
Even the best equipment & design is bound to have problems-likely when you least expect it. Make sure you are prepared. Have extra bulbs, power cords, redundant controls, and other items in case of failure. A small tool bag with common tools, cable testers & the like will go along way in trouble shooting problems should they arise. Should the lights go out due to a power loss,(that cant be fixed by resetting a breaker) the show must go on- A ladder and a few flash lights can be enough to light the stage if needed.
5)Be Proactive-Does proactive planning really pay off?(Yes!!!)
Being proactive is a bit different than being prepared. Weather your doing it yourself or hiring a professional, make sure just as much energy is put into planning the lighting as is put into the cake,decorations, seating charts & more. Get familiar with the venue as much as possible beforehand. Plan your equipment drop off location, power runs & light placement Prior. If you dont have a cart to carry in the gear, call ahead and make sure the venue can accommodate. Always arrive early and give yourself plenty of time. Testing your equipment before hand to both make sure it works & that you know how to use it is always recommended. Finally, remember that un-boxing new equipment at a gig is never a good idea. (There can be issues that go beyond just looking unprofessional)
People will likely talk more about the "failed" lighting than they will about the "amazing" lighting-Its just human nature. Unless you subscribe to the concept that "bad or negative news is better than no news", you'll probably want to lean more towards ensuring the event lighting is amazing and making sure your event goes off without a hitch. Regardless of whos doing the event lighting, by keeping the 5 items above in mind the lighting will likely be a triumphant rather than a Flop.
1)Equipment-Round peg in a square hole?
Proper equipment is the first place to start. Make sure you are using the right equipment for the right job. Surprisingly this can be more complex than just proper size, & Quantity. Are you using a "flood" light when you really need a "spot" light. Do you need a warm white or cool white? Make sure not to choose form over function. Its important that event lighting be compact and attractive if possible, but actual function is probably more important. When it comes to equipment just remember its all in the details. Having a variety different lights is always a good idea. There will always be "that one area" that you didn't think of that you wish had the perfect light for.
2)Power-Are you on the edge of a brown out?
While tripping a breaker might be a thing of the past thanks to LED technology, When it comes to power there are still quite a few pitfalls to be on the look out for. Understanding what power is available to you & the needs of the entire event it critical. (Are there any energy hogs like a coffee pot?) Make sure power usage is balanced over multiple circuits breakers if possible. This will not only reduce your chance of blowing a breaker, but if you do, you wont be completely in the dark. Keeping the DJ equipment & Lighting equipment on a separate Circuit or at very least power strip is always a good idea as well. Keeping your power runs simple and organized Is ideal. Design it with the concept of quick expansion or changes in mind. Create Multiple "zones" by bringing Plenty of power strips-the kind with switches. This will allow you to add and remove equipment easily mid event without "taking out" anything else. "Daisy chaining power" to the lights can be good in some applications but is generally not the best idea.
3) Safety-Will your guests be safe?
It can probably be argued that safety should be the first item of the list, but hey at least its not number 5. Chances are your event wont be as bright as your cubical at work.(Especially after the sun goes down) Reduce the likely hood of tripping & keep it high heel friendly by ensuring there is enough lighting by stairs, exits, cords, light poles & other obstacles. Full knowledge of lighting controls is also essential. In case of emergency make sure you know how the controls work in case you need to turn them all on quickly. (Dont forget house lighting) When it comes to equipment and set up, make sure any cabling is properly secured, correctly sized and in good condition. Surge protector(s) should also be used as an added measure of safety. Finally Keep It calm, too much strobe or high intensity can literally make people sick-make sure you keep this in mind.
4)Be Prepared-Do you have a back up plan?
Even the best equipment & design is bound to have problems-likely when you least expect it. Make sure you are prepared. Have extra bulbs, power cords, redundant controls, and other items in case of failure. A small tool bag with common tools, cable testers & the like will go along way in trouble shooting problems should they arise. Should the lights go out due to a power loss,(that cant be fixed by resetting a breaker) the show must go on- A ladder and a few flash lights can be enough to light the stage if needed.
5)Be Proactive-Does proactive planning really pay off?(Yes!!!)
Being proactive is a bit different than being prepared. Weather your doing it yourself or hiring a professional, make sure just as much energy is put into planning the lighting as is put into the cake,decorations, seating charts & more. Get familiar with the venue as much as possible beforehand. Plan your equipment drop off location, power runs & light placement Prior. If you dont have a cart to carry in the gear, call ahead and make sure the venue can accommodate. Always arrive early and give yourself plenty of time. Testing your equipment before hand to both make sure it works & that you know how to use it is always recommended. Finally, remember that un-boxing new equipment at a gig is never a good idea. (There can be issues that go beyond just looking unprofessional)
People will likely talk more about the "failed" lighting than they will about the "amazing" lighting-Its just human nature. Unless you subscribe to the concept that "bad or negative news is better than no news", you'll probably want to lean more towards ensuring the event lighting is amazing and making sure your event goes off without a hitch. Regardless of whos doing the event lighting, by keeping the 5 items above in mind the lighting will likely be a triumphant rather than a Flop.
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