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Lighting Technicians

Experience, Skills, and Personality Traits

Students should obtain as much experience in the field as possible by participating in internships and part-time jobs

Setting up lights can be physically demanding work, especially when lighting a large movie set. You should be able to handle heavy lights on stands and work with suspended lights while on a ladder. Repairs such as changing light bulbs or replacing worn wires are sometimes necessary. You should be able to work with electricians' hand tools (screwdrivers, pliers, and so forth) and be comfortable working with electricity. You should also be dependable and capable of working as part of a team. Communication skills, both listening and speaking, are necessary when working with a director and with assistant light technicians.