## How to Become a Stage Lighting Designer
A stage lighting designer is responsible for creating the lighting design for a theatrical production. They work closely with the director, set designer, and costume designer to create a visual environment that supports the storytelling and enhances the audience’s experience.
### Education and Training
There are several paths to becoming a stage lighting designer. Some people start out with a formal education in theater or lighting design, while others gain experience through apprenticeships or on-the-job training.
#### Formal Education
There are many colleges and universities that offer programs in theater or lighting design. These programs typically provide students with a strong foundation in the principles of stage lighting, as well as hands-on experience in designing and executing lighting plots.
**Some of the most popular schools for stage lighting design include:**
* Boston University
* Carnegie Mellon University
* New York University
* Ohio University
* Yale University
#### Apprenticeships and On-the-Job Training
If you don’t want to go to college, there are still many ways to become a stage lighting designer. You can apprentice with an experienced lighting designer, or you can get on-the-job training by working as a stagehand or electrician in a theater.
**Here are some tips for getting started:**
* **Network with other theater professionals.** Attend industry events and meet with people who work in lighting design.
* **Build a portfolio of your work.** Showcase your lighting designs in a portfolio that you can share with potential employers.
* **Get involved in local theater productions.** Volunteer your time to work on lighting for community theater or student productions.
### Skills and Qualities
In addition to education and training, there are several skills and qualities that are essential for a successful stage lighting designer.
**These include:**
* **A strong understanding of the principles of stage lighting.** This includes knowledge of lighting equipment, color theory, and how to create different lighting effects.
* **Creativity and imagination.** Stage lighting designers need to be able to come up with creative and innovative lighting designs that support the storytelling and enhance the audience’s experience.
* **Technical proficiency.** Stage lighting designers need to be proficient in using lighting equipment and software. They also need to be able to read and understand lighting plots.
* **Communication skills.** Stage lighting designers need to be able to communicate their ideas effectively to other members of the production team. They also need to be able to work well with actors and technicians.
### Job Outlook
The job outlook for stage lighting designers is expected to be good over the next few years. As the theater industry continues to grow, there will be a need for more qualified lighting designers.
**According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for stage lighting designers was $61,260 in May 2019.** The top 10% of earners made more than $109,320, while the bottom 10% earned less than $26,450.
### Conclusion
Becoming a stage lighting designer is a rewarding career that offers the opportunity to be creative and make a difference in the theater world. If you have a passion for theater and a strong interest in lighting design, then this could be the perfect career for you.