Fixture Focus

Term from Theatrical Lighting industry explained for recruiters

Fixture Focus is a key skill in theatrical and entertainment lighting that involves precisely aiming and adjusting lighting equipment. It's like carefully pointing spotlights and other lighting instruments to illuminate specific areas or performers on stage. This task is essential for creating the right visual effects and ensuring proper lighting coverage for performances, concerts, and events. When someone lists this skill, they're showing they know how to safely handle and position lighting equipment to achieve the desired lighting design.

Examples in Resumes

Performed daily Fixture Focus adjustments for Broadway-style theatrical productions

Led team of technicians in Fixture Focus and lighting programming for touring concerts

Managed Fixture Focus and lighting position documentation for multiple venue spaces

Typical job title: "Lighting Technicians"

Also try searching for:

Lighting Technician Master Electrician Lighting Programmer Moving Light Technician Stage Electrician Entertainment Lighting Specialist Production Electrician

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you manage fixture focus for a large-scale production with multiple moving lights and conventional fixtures?

Expected Answer: A senior technician should discuss organizing focus calls, managing teams, creating focus charts, using industry software for documentation, and problem-solving techniques for complex lighting setups.

Q: How do you train new technicians in proper fixture focus techniques?

Expected Answer: Should explain teaching safety procedures, basic focus techniques, communication methods during focus calls, and how to maintain consistent quality across different types of lighting instruments.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What is your process for focusing different types of lighting fixtures?

Expected Answer: Should describe the steps for focusing various lights (spotlights, wash lights, moving lights), understanding light beam angles, and following lighting designers' instructions.

Q: How do you document focus positions and maintain them during a show run?

Expected Answer: Should explain methods for recording focus points, creating focus charts, and maintaining consistency throughout performances.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What safety precautions do you take when focusing lights?

Expected Answer: Should mention basic safety practices like using proper equipment, communication with team members, and following venue safety protocols.

Q: Can you explain the basic tools needed for fixture focus?

Expected Answer: Should be able to list and describe basic tools like wrench sets, gloves, and communication devices used during focus calls.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic fixture focusing techniques
  • Understanding of basic lighting terminology
  • Following safety protocols
  • Basic tool handling

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced focusing techniques
  • Focus documentation
  • Problem-solving lighting issues
  • Working with various fixture types

Senior (5+ years)

  • Managing focus calls
  • Training other technicians
  • Troubleshooting complex systems
  • Show maintenance supervision

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Lack of basic safety awareness
  • No hands-on experience with different types of lighting fixtures
  • Poor communication skills during focus calls
  • Unfamiliarity with industry-standard focus procedures