Lighting director: Job description and activities

A lighting director plans all aspects of lighting a production.

Typical work activities include:

deciding on the equipment and crew required;
instructing and overseeing the work of lighting technicians;
liaising closely with the director and set designer;
making decisions about the camera angles, positions and equipment required for scenes, which are then shot by the camera operator.

A significant knowledge of the programme concept is required, as well as an understanding of the on-screen effect that the director intends. When making a television drama or documentary on location, you may find that the function of lighting director is fulfilled by a lighting camera operator, which is also the common term used in the film industry.

This role demands a mixture of technical and creative experience. Most lighting directors have progressed from working behind a camera or as an electrician, to working as a lighting technician/assistant and then on to lighting director.

For more information see Lighting technician, broadcasting/film/video.

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