Week 10: Source

This pole fixture in my home is placed on a box so I can't see the bulb. I hate a light source glaring in my eyes. Light fixtures often don't fully shade new energy-efficient light "bulbs". The source sticks out, irritating my eyes whenever I glance in that vicinity. Very short and very tall people, such as myself, are often exposed to lighting sources directly. We have different experiences with everyday light than others.

Actually, this relates to a complaint I often have with theatrical lighting plots. As an audience member I'm distracted by light sources and halation in my direct or peripheral views. I wonder how many lighting designers realize their lighting instruments can be much brighter than the stage and performers, and consequently draw the eye? Drawing attention to lighting instruments rather than light reflecting off the performers and playing space could be an artistic choice, but often doesn't seem deliberate to me. If you cue all the right box booms at once, but the general stage picture doesn't change too much, the box booms will probably be where my eyes go if I'm sitting house-left, at least half-way back. Subtle action onstage may go unnoticed, or seem muddled.

Back light with Pars is the worst. Yes, the person is "pushed forward", but I'm also quite aware of the very bright light glaring at me. Certain theatrical moments could or should engender feelings of discomfort, or draw attention to a heightened moment. I cheer at such concordance with on stage action, and have seen back light used very effectively. Not always.

All that being said, one is more likely to look at lighting instruments when the show isn't very good. Even the best lighting designer can't save bad acting or directing. Also, I'm insatiably curious about my surroundings and easily distracted.

Regarding the sunset picture, taken off my back balcony: Southern California is a beautiful place to contemplate light. Thank you, Lonnie, for helping to open my eyes.