Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Composition • Anamorphic • Tungsten

HMI

Term from Cinematography industry explained for recruiters

HMI (Hydrargyrum Medium-arc Iodide) is a type of powerful lighting equipment commonly used in film and television production. Think of it as a super-bright light that creates daylight-quality illumination. Film crews use HMI lights when they need to light large areas, simulate sunlight, or shoot outdoors during cloudy days. It's like having portable sunshine in a box. These lights are essential tools in modern filmmaking, and you'll often see them mentioned in job descriptions for lighting technicians, gaffers (chief lighting technicians), and cinematographers.

Examples in Resumes

Operated HMI lighting systems on major motion picture sets

Managed power distribution for multiple HMI units during outdoor shoots

Set up and maintained HMI lighting rigs for commercial productions

Typical job title: "Lighting Technicians"

Also try searching for:

Gaffer Best Boy Electric Lighting Director Set Electrician Lighting Technician Director of Photography Cinematographer

Where to Find Lighting Technicians

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you plan lighting for a day-to-night scene using HMI lights?

Expected Answer: A senior lighting professional should explain how to balance HMI with natural light, power requirements, and transitioning between daylight and nighttime lighting setups. They should mention safety considerations and crew coordination.

Q: What factors do you consider when choosing between HMI and LED lighting for a large outdoor shoot?

Expected Answer: Should discuss budget considerations, power availability, weather conditions, setup time, and the specific lighting requirements of the scene. Should also mention crew size needs and rental logistics.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you safely set up and operate an HMI light?

Expected Answer: Should explain proper mounting, power distribution, safety checks, weather protection, and basic troubleshooting. Should emphasize safety protocols and proper handling procedures.

Q: What are the main differences between various HMI wattages and when would you use each?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain common HMI sizes (1.2K, 2.5K, 4K, etc.), their typical applications, and considerations for power requirements and crew needs.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What safety precautions do you take when handling HMI lights?

Expected Answer: Should mention basics like proper cable management, heat awareness, protective gear, and the importance of following power-up and cool-down procedures.

Q: Can you explain the basic parts of an HMI lighting setup?

Expected Answer: Should identify main components like the ballast, head, stand, safety cable, and power distribution, showing basic understanding of how the system works together.