Shutters
Shutters are essential tools in theatrical lighting that help control and shape light beams coming from stage lights. Think of them like window blinds for stage lights - they let lighting designers control exactly where light falls on the stage. These metal pieces slide in and out of the light fixture to create sharp edges, rectangles, or triangles of light. When someone mentions shutters in their theater lighting experience, they're talking about adjusting these components to achieve precise lighting effects for performances, events, or TV productions. You might also see them referred to as "barn doors" or "light shapers" in job descriptions.
Examples in Resumes
Designed lighting plots using Shutters to create precise area lighting for Broadway-style productions
Maintained and adjusted Barn Doors and Shutters on over 200 lighting fixtures
Trained junior technicians in proper Shutter adjustment techniques for TV studio lighting
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 handle lighting design for a complex multi-set production where precise shutter cuts are crucial?
Expected Answer: A senior technician should discuss creating detailed focus charts, coordinating with the set designer, managing a team during focus calls, and having backup plans for equipment failures.
Q: Describe a situation where you had to troubleshoot shutter system failures during a live performance.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership in crisis management, knowledge of quick fixes, and ability to train crew in preventive maintenance.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when focusing lights with shutters for a dance performance?
Expected Answer: Should mention stage layout awareness, understanding of dancers' movement areas, coordination with choreography, and proper technique for clean shutter cuts.
Q: How do you maintain and repair shutter assemblies?
Expected Answer: Should explain regular maintenance procedures, common issues with shutters, and basic repair techniques while emphasizing safety.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic parts of a shutter assembly and how do they work?
Expected Answer: Should be able to identify the basic parts (blades, handles, housing) and explain how they work together to shape light.
Q: How do you safely adjust shutters on a hot lighting fixture?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of basic safety procedures, proper use of gloves, and understanding of cool-down periods.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic shutter adjustment and focusing
- Understanding of safety procedures
- Following lighting plots
- Basic maintenance and cleaning
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex shutter cuts and shapes
- Fixture maintenance and repair
- Training junior technicians
- Problem-solving during shows
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced lighting design implementation
- Team leadership and coordination
- Production planning
- Emergency troubleshooting
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on experience with theatrical lighting equipment
- Lack of basic safety knowledge
- Unable to read lighting plots
- No experience with live performances or shows
Related Terms
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