The Lighting department plays a crucial role in most film crews.  Humanity lives by the light of the sun and, when it sets, artificial lights of different kinds and intensities are required.  Although some productions may make use of daylight, for the most part it is necessary to use artificial light to achieve the visual image required.  The different members of the Lighting crew are responsible, together with others such as the Camera crew or Designer, for the look and feel of the images that are captured on the screen.  They set up a wide range of lighting equipment to achieve a variety of moods, atmospheres and effects, as well as helping to make the actors, performers and participants look right for their roles. 

All members of the Lighting department are trained to work safely with electricity, and all its obvious potential dangers.  They interpret the ideas of the Director, the Designer and other departments such as Make-Up and Costume, and choose the correct lights and equipment to meet the production brief.  Lighting has become increasingly sophisticated, utilising a variety of lamps and accessories to create special effects.  Some lighting set-ups are quite simple, and only require minimal lighting and a minimal crew, but dramas and feature films may require several hundred lights, many of which are computer-controlled.  The sheer variety of equipment means that Lighting Technicians, once trained, may take up specialist roles within the lighting team.

This is traditionally a male-dominated section of the industry, although some women now work in these roles.  Members of the Lighting department work in studios or on locations, both indoors and outdoors.  They must be qualified electricians and generally acquire their skills with a combination of on-the-job experience and college training.  It is usual to start work in a lighting hire company to gain a thorough knowledge of all types of equipment, but some individuals start their careers working in theatre.  Many of those working in the Lighting department become freelancers once they have established themselves in the industry.

All Lighting occupations require the following knowledge and skills:

excellent Health and Safety knowledge and awareness;

• ability to work comfortably at heights;
• good communication and presentation skills;
• knowledge of different types of lighting equipment, accessories and effects;
• literacy, numeracy and I.T. skills;
• patience and attention to detail;
• stamina and physical agility;
• willingness to work long and irregular hours, and to travel;
• full driving licence.