Moving Head Spot

A moving head spot is an automated ellipsoidal fixture that provides dynamic light. It offers the innovative features LDs need to create professional lighting designs like a wide color range, gobo patterns and strobing.

Spot fixtures are primarily used to highlight individual performers, stage elements and scenery with sharply defined beams of light. They are often fitted with a GOBO wheel that lets you punch your choice of metal shapes into the beam before it leaves the unit.

Focusing

Modern moving heads feature a light-source mounted on a motorised yoke, which can be moved up and down (Tilt) and side to side (Pan). This allows the beam of light to be projected in almost any direction. Most models also include gobos, which can be used to change the pattern of the projection. This means the light can be used to create a wide range of effects, from spotlighting a single person on stage to filling an entire room with swirling gobos.

The most common type of moving head is the moving head spot Spot fixture. These produce a narrow and sharply focused beam of light, making them ideal for creating impactful lighting effects. They are often used in theatres and on concert tours to highlight a specific location or performer. They are also popular for illuminating a venue or scenic element with a dense column of light, which is particularly effective in a smoke or haze environment.

Another option is the Wash moving head. These fixtures produce a softer, wider beam of light than Spots. While they don’t usually feature GOBO patterns, they can still be used to illuminate particular venue features or performers with subtle swathes of diffused light. Most Wash units also come with color wheels and full-color mixing capabilities, which allow them to be used for a range of creative effects.

Colors

The color range of LED spot moving head lights is impressive and the fixtures can be used to illuminate a variety of different venues and performances. The narrow lens of the fixture allows for a tight beam of static color and some can also display patterns from gobos. This can add a more dynamic element to the lighting of a performance and make it stand out from the rest.

Another popular option for moving head fixtures are Washes. While the Spot fixture has a relatively narrow, sharply-focused light output, Wash fixtures produce a softer and wider light that fades out at the edges. These are used to illuminate different venue features and scenery as well as performers and crowds, and they can be a great way to break up the sharp beams of other fixtures with atmospheric swathes of diffused light.

A LED moving head wash can be used to add an extra element of interest to a performance or club show, and it can even be used to create unique effects like rising flames or ripple effects on stage. The fixture comes with a number of other features that can further enhance the visual effect, including automatic framing and an advanced control stage light bar system. The fixture also includes a pattern wheel with gobos and a special animation wheel for spinning effects.

Beam angle

Moving head beam lights are a crucial part of any theatrical lighting setup. Their versatility and precise control allow them to create stunning visual effects that bring performances to life. They also allow the synchronization of light cues and other aspects of the production to ensure that everything goes smoothly.

When choosing a moving head beam light, it’s important to consider the beam angle. This refers to the width of the light beam that is projected from the fixture. A narrower beam angle produces a more concentrated and intense light output, while a wider one creates a softer and more spread out light. The choice of beam angle depends on the type of effect you want to create and the size of the venue.

In addition to the beam angle, it’s important to consider the movement range of a moving head spot light. While some models have limited movements, others offer extensive pan (horizontal) and tilt (vertical) ranges. This allows them to cover a larger area of the stage. In addition, some models come with gobos, giving them the ability to project a variety of different patterns and shapes. When used with artificial fog, a moving head spot can create impressive lighting effects that are visible from a large distance. These effects are perfect for creating a club-like atmosphere in any space.

Control

Unlike wash fixtures, which use multiple light sources to produce a wide wash of light, moving head spot uses a single light source to create a narrow beam of light. This allows them to focus on more precise areas. This flexibility makes them popular with rock and festival stages, nightclub dance floors, and more. They also can be enhanced with colors, effects, and gobos to add to their versatility.

Moving heads operate through a combination of motorised mechanisms and internal electronics. They can be controlled using a lighting console or DMX controller to adjust position, intensity, and colour. Some models have zoom capabilities, which can be used to change the size of the light beam. Other features include a color wheel and prisms, which can be combined to create a variety of different effects. Some can even be programmed to synchronise with music and performances.

Moving head wash and spot fixtures are essential tools for lighting designers in theatres and concert venues, allowing them to illuminate stage performers and elevate the visual impact of events. Understanding how they work can help you create impressive lighting designs that will energise your audience and make your event stand out from the rest. This blog will provide some tips on how to program and control these lights effectively to make them truly mesmerising for your audience.