## Tools of the Lighting Designer
Lighting designers use a variety of tools to create their designs. These tools can be divided into two main categories:
* **Technical tools** are used to create and control the lighting design. These tools include:
* **Lighting software:** Lighting software is used to create 3D models of the space to be lit, and to simulate the effects of different lighting fixtures. This software allows the designer to experiment with different lighting designs and to find the best solution for the space.
* **Lighting control systems:** Lighting control systems are used to control the lighting fixtures in the space. These systems allow the designer to create different lighting scenes, and to change the lighting levels and colors in response to different events.
* **Lighting fixtures:** Lighting fixtures are the physical objects that produce the light in the space. These fixtures come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can be used to create a variety of different lighting effects.
* **Non-technical tools** are used to communicate the lighting design to others. These tools include:
* **Drawings:** Drawings are used to show the layout of the lighting fixtures, and to indicate the lighting levels and colors in the space.
* **Renderings:** Renderings are computer-generated images that show the lighting design in a realistic way. These images can be used to help clients visualize the lighting design and to make decisions about the final design.
* **Scripts:** Scripts are used to describe the lighting cues for a performance or event. These scripts tell the lighting technicians when to change the lighting levels and colors, and how to create different lighting effects.
In addition to these tools, lighting designers may also use a variety of other tools, such as:
* **Camera:** A camera can be used to take pictures of the lighting design, or to record video footage of the lighting effects.
* **Computer:** A computer can be used to run lighting software, or to create drawings and renderings.
* **Printer:** A printer can be used to print out drawings and scripts.
* **Scanner:** A scanner can be used to scan drawings or renderings into a computer.
* **Tape measure:** A tape measure can be used to measure the distances between lighting fixtures and other objects in the space.
* **Level:** A level can be used to check if the lighting fixtures are level.
## List of Lighting Design Software
There are a number of different lighting design software programs available. Some of the most popular programs include:
* **Autodesk Revit:** Revit is a building information modeling (BIM) software program that can be used to create 3D models of buildings. Revit includes a number of features that are specifically designed for lighting designers, such as the ability to create lighting fixtures and to simulate the effects of different lighting conditions.
* **Vectorworks Spotlight:** Spotlight is a CAD software program that is specifically designed for lighting designers. Spotlight includes a number of features that are specifically designed for lighting design, such as the ability to create lighting fixtures, to simulate the effects of different lighting conditions, and to create lighting schedules.
* **Dialux Evo:** Dialux Evo is a lighting design software program that is specifically designed for indoor lighting. Dialux Evo includes a number of features that are specifically designed for lighting designers, such as the ability to create lighting fixtures, to simulate the effects of different lighting conditions, and to create lighting schedules.
* **AGi32:** AGi32 is a lighting design software program that is specifically designed for outdoor lighting. AGi32 includes a number of features that are specifically designed for lighting designers, such as the ability to create lighting fixtures, to simulate the effects of different lighting conditions, and to create lighting schedules.
## List of Lighting Control Systems
There are a number of different lighting control systems available. Some of the most popular systems include:
* **Crestron:** Crestron is a leading manufacturer of lighting control systems. Crestron systems are known for their reliability and ease of use.
* **Lutron:** Lutron is another leading manufacturer of lighting control systems. Lutron systems are known for their innovative features and their ability to integrate with other home automation systems.
* **Philips Hue:** Philips Hue is a popular wireless lighting control system. Hue systems are known for their ease of use and their ability to be controlled from a smartphone or tablet.
* **Wink:** Wink is another popular wireless lighting control system. Wink systems are known for their ability to integrate with a variety of other home automation products.
## Conclusion
Lighting designers use a variety of tools to create their designs. These tools can be divided into two main categories: technical tools and non-technical tools. Technical tools are used to create and control the lighting design, while non-technical tools are used to communicate the lighting design to others. In addition to these tools, lighting designers may also use a variety of other tools, such as cameras, computers, printers, scanners, tape measures, and levels.
