Barn Doors
Barn doors are adjustable flaps or panels that attach to the front of theatrical lights. They work like window shutters, allowing lighting technicians to control and shape the beam of light. These metal flaps can be moved to block parts of the light, creating specific shapes or preventing light from spilling into unwanted areas. This is a basic but essential tool in theater, film, and event lighting. When someone mentions barn doors in their resume, they're talking about their experience with light control and precision lighting techniques.
Examples in Resumes
Adjusted Barn Doors and other lighting controls for precise stage illumination
Maintained inventory of lighting equipment including Barn Door attachments
Designed lighting setups using Barn Doors to create focused lighting effects for theatrical productions
Typical job title: "Lighting Technicians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Lighting Technicians
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you plan lighting design for a complex theater production using barn doors and other equipment?
Expected Answer: A senior technician should explain the process of reading scripts, creating lighting plots, considering angles and shadows, and how barn doors work with other lighting equipment to achieve desired effects.
Q: How do you train junior technicians in proper use of barn doors and lighting safety?
Expected Answer: Should discuss creating training programs, emphasizing safety procedures, proper handling of hot equipment, and techniques for achieving precise lighting control.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are some creative ways you've used barn doors to solve lighting challenges?
Expected Answer: Should provide examples of using barn doors to control light spill, create specific shapes, or solve common staging problems like unwanted shadows or audience glare.
Q: How do you maintain barn doors and troubleshoot common issues?
Expected Answer: Should describe regular maintenance procedures, common problems like loose hinges or warping from heat, and how to safely fix these issues.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are barn doors and how do you use them?
Expected Answer: Should explain that barn doors are adjustable flaps on lights that control the shape and direction of light, and demonstrate basic understanding of how to adjust them safely.
Q: What safety considerations are important when working with barn doors?
Expected Answer: Should mention heat concerns, proper handling, waiting for lights to cool before adjusting, and basic electrical safety awareness.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic light focusing and beam shaping
- Safe handling of lighting equipment
- Understanding of basic lighting terminology
- Following lighting plots and instructions
Mid (2-5 years)
- Creative problem-solving with lighting equipment
- Equipment maintenance and repair
- Understanding different types of stage lights
- Working with lighting design software
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex lighting design implementation
- Training and supervising crew members
- Troubleshooting technical issues
- Budget planning for lighting equipment
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on experience with lighting equipment
- Lack of safety awareness
- Unable to explain basic lighting concepts
- No experience with live productions or events
Related Terms
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