Wash Light
A Wash Light is a basic but essential type of lighting fixture used in theaters, concerts, and events. It creates broad, even lighting that covers large areas, similar to how a wide shower head spreads water. These lights are used to add color to stages, illuminate groups of performers, or create general mood lighting. You might also see them called "wash fixtures," "wash units," or "wash moving lights" if they can move and change direction. They're different from spotlight-type fixtures, which create focused beams for highlighting specific performers or areas.
Examples in Resumes
Programmed Wash Light systems for national touring productions
Maintained inventory of 50+ Wash Lights and Moving Wash fixtures
Designed lighting plots incorporating LED Wash and Wash Light placement for corporate events
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 design a lighting plot for a large-scale concert using wash lights?
Expected Answer: A senior candidate should explain how to evaluate venue size, create coverage zones, select appropriate fixtures, consider power requirements, and plan for backup equipment. They should mention coordinating with other production elements and budget considerations.
Q: What factors do you consider when maintaining a wash light inventory?
Expected Answer: Should discuss preventive maintenance schedules, troubleshooting processes, inventory tracking systems, repair vs. replace decisions, and coordination with rental companies when needed.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you choose between LED and traditional wash lights for different applications?
Expected Answer: Should compare power consumption, heat output, color mixing capabilities, dimming characteristics, and discuss which situations are better suited for each type.
Q: Explain how you would program wash lights for a theatrical production
Expected Answer: Should describe creating lighting cues, setting up color palettes, timing adjustments, and working with a lighting console to achieve desired effects.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What's the difference between a wash light and a spot light?
Expected Answer: Should explain that wash lights provide broad, even coverage for general illumination while spot lights create focused beams for highlighting specific areas or performers.
Q: How do you safely handle and maintain wash lights?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of basic safety procedures, cleaning methods, proper handling techniques, and simple maintenance tasks.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic fixture setup and focusing
- Cable management and basic maintenance
- Understanding of color theory
- Basic console operation
Mid (2-5 years)
- Programming lighting consoles
- Troubleshooting technical issues
- Understanding DMX protocols
- Creating lighting plots
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced system design
- Project management
- Team supervision
- Budget management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic electrical safety
- Unfamiliarity with industry-standard lighting consoles
- Lack of experience with different types of venues
- Poor understanding of color theory and lighting basics
Related Terms
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