Top Light
Top Light is a basic but important lighting technique used in theater, film, and events where lights are positioned above the stage or performance area. Think of it as overhead lighting that helps make performers visible to the audience. It's often mentioned alongside terms like "front light" or "back light" when describing how a show or event is lit. When someone mentions experience with Top Light in their resume, they're showing they understand fundamental stage lighting principles. It's similar to how an interior designer would understand where to place different types of room lighting.
Examples in Resumes
Designed lighting plots incorporating Top Light for multiple Broadway productions
Managed Top Light placement for national touring shows
Programmed Top Lighting and Top Light systems for major concert venues
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 do you determine the proper balance of top light in a large-scale production?
Expected Answer: A senior lighting professional should discuss factors like stage size, performance type, costume colors, and how top light works with other lighting angles to create depth and visibility while avoiding unwanted shadows.
Q: How do you train junior technicians in proper top light setup and maintenance?
Expected Answer: Should explain teaching safety procedures, proper hanging techniques, focus methods, and how to troubleshoot common issues with overhead lighting systems.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when choosing color temperatures for top light?
Expected Answer: Should discuss how different color temperatures affect skin tones, costume colors, and how they work with stage makeup and set pieces.
Q: How do you handle top light maintenance in a busy venue?
Expected Answer: Should describe scheduling regular checks, safety procedures for accessing overhead positions, and how to minimize disruption to show schedules.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What safety considerations are important when working with top light?
Expected Answer: Should mention basic safety practices like proper use of safety cables, harnesses when working at height, and checking equipment before hanging.
Q: What are the basic types of fixtures commonly used for top light?
Expected Answer: Should be able to name basic lighting instruments and explain their common uses in overhead positions.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic fixture hanging and focusing
- Understanding of lighting positions
- Cable management
- Basic safety procedures
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex lighting setup coordination
- Troubleshooting lighting systems
- Color theory application
- Maintenance scheduling
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced lighting design concepts
- Team supervision
- Production planning
- Budget management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic safety procedures
- Unfamiliarity with industry-standard lighting equipment
- Lack of experience with different venue types
- No understanding of basic color theory
Related Terms
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