Have you ever walked into an event and thought, “Why does this room feel so dull?” Surprisingly, the answer often lies in how the lighting setup is done. If the lights are too bright, too dim, or oddly coloured, they can make people feel uncomfortable or bored. This issue can be challenging, especially in the UK, where cloudy days can lower your mood. But don’t worry. There is a simple solution to this: hiring professional lighting.
This blog will tell you why lighting matters for events like AGMS, conferences, and gala nights. We’ll share some facts and easy steps to help you understand how to get the best lighting for your event. By the end, you’ll know how to make your venue look and feel amazing.
So, without further ado, let’s get started.
Why event lighting matters
Good lighting isn’t just about making things look nice; it serves a purpose. Here’s why it’s so important:
- Enhance visibility: Ensure that speakers, presentations, and performers are seen clearly.
- Creates an atmosphere: 85% of event feedback mentions a calm and engaging ambience because of the lighting, which sets the mood for a professional AGM or a glamorous gala night.
- Improve engagement: Keep the audience focused and immersed in the event.
- Supports photography and filming: Poor lighting can ruin event footage and photos.
- Boost brand image: A well-lit event looks polished and professional.
How to set up lighting for different events?
Knowing what you need is important before you start planning your lighting hire. Here are some questions to ask yourself:
- What type of event are you hosting? Is it formal, like a gala night, or more casual, like a conference?
- How many attendees will there be? More people may require brighter lights.
- What mood do you want to create? Different lights can have a distinct look and feel.
1. Survey the venue
After creating the question checklist, check the room or venue layout for power outlets, stage location, seating arrangements, and any obstructions. Plan lighting angles to avoid blinding guests while still illuminating key areas.
2. Pick the right lights (different events, different lighting needs)
Every event has its own unique lighting requirements. For setup, when hiring lighting in London, choosing the right type of lighting for each event is important. Let’s break down which light is perfect for which type of event:
a. Lighting hire for conferences & AGMs
For corporate events, clarity and professionalism are key. You need a setup that keeps speakers well-lit and ensures smooth presentations.
- Stage lighting: Use bright lighting to highlight speakers. Spotlights work well here.
- Presentation lighting: Avoid harsh glares on screens; opt for soft, indirect lighting.
- Audience lighting: Keep it dim but bright enough for note-taking.
- LED uplighters: Add depth to the venue without being overpowering.
Apart from that, you can also use ring lights and soft lamps to create a professional setup.
| 💡 Pro Tip: Lighting hire for AGMS should include adjustable brightness to accommodate different presentation styles. |
b. Lighting hire for gala nights
Gala nights are all about elegance and drama. Here’s how to create a stunning setup:
- Warm, ambient lighting: This creates a welcoming and luxurious feel.
- Colour wash lighting: This adds depth and richness to the event space.
- Moving lights & spotlights: Keep the focus on awards, speeches, or entertainment.
- LED dance floor lighting: Elevates the after-party atmosphere.
| 🌟Fun Fact: The right lighting hire for a gala night can instantly transform a plain venue into a breathtaking setting. |
c. Lighting hire London for general events
No matter the event type, consider these basics:
| Lighting Type | Purpose |
| Uplighting | Adds depth and enhances venue aesthetics. |
| Spotlights | Focus attention on speakers or performers. |
| LED wash lights | Provides consistent, even lighting. |
| Colour changing lights | Customise lighting for different moods. |
| Gobos | Project logos or patterns onto walls and floors. |
3. Focus on the “BIG 3”
The BIG 3: colour, variation & creativity are the most important factors for setting up lighting in an event:
- Colour: The lighting is a large box of crayons. Blending different hues can match your official colours to complement a complementary theme.
- Variation: Make sure you do not just set it and forget it. Remember that your goal is to create an atmosphere and light specific areas or aspects of the event. Use multiple lighting elements, such as moving lights and uplighting, and vary the light levels to create entertaining effects.
- Creativity: Get that light show out of your head and into the venue. The creative side of event lighting is just as important as the practical side.
4. Keep safety in mind
- Use cable covers to prevent tripping hazards.
- Secure lighting stands to prevent accidents.
- Label lights for easy control during the event.
5. Test, adjust, and test again
- Conduct a full rehearsal with all AV elements running.
- Walk around the room to check for dark spots or glare.
- Get feedback from another person to catch anything you missed.
Common lighting setup mistakes & how to avoid them
During setup, you may encounter issues that can turn an extraordinary event into an ordinary one. Below are some common mistakes and tips to avoid them:
🚫 Too dim or too bright: Balance is key. Ensure lighting is neither blinding nor too dull.
🚫 Wrong colour temperatures: Warm tones work best for gala nights, while cool tones suit corporate events.
🚫 Poor placement: Bad positioning can cast unflattering shadows on speakers.
🚫 No backup plan: Always have extra bulbs and a technical person on-site, just in case.
| 💡 Quick Tip: For a successful event without any hiccups, hire a professional AV company for lighting equipment and on-site technical support. |
Essential lighting equipment checklist
Before we proceed, let’s discuss the lighting equipment hire checklist more closely. It will help you make better decisions for your next event, whether it’s a conference, AGM, Gala Night, or other event.
Here we’ve got a quick checklist of basic and advanced lighting setups:
Basic setup
- LED Par Cans: Chauvet professional Colorado 1 Tour Par Can.
- Moving head lights: Chauvet Rogue R3 Spot, Chauvet Rogue R3 Wash, ADJ Pocket Pro Moving head.
- Control Board: Avolites Quartz Lighting Console, Chamsys MagicQ PC Wing Compact.
Advanced setup
- Gobo Lights: ETC Source Four Profile 26°.
- Uplighters: Battery Powered Uplighters, Outdoor Battery Uplighters, Chauvet Freedom Par Hex 4.
- DMX Controllers: Avolites Titan One, DMX Lighting Controller.
Bonus point: Factors to consider before choosing a lighting partner
When looking for lighting hire in London, consider factors like:
- Customisation options.
- Energy efficiency.
- Latest technology.
- Portfolio & reviews.
- Flexibility & scalability.
- Cost transparency.
- Logistics & timelines.
- On-site technicians.
- Integration with AV.
- Compliance & safety.
Elevate your event with AV Productions
Whether you need lighting hire for AGMS, conferences, or a spectacular gala night, AV Productions has a wide range of gear. We’ve been brightening London’s events for over 25 years. Our central London warehouse is stocked with over 1,500 fully tested pieces of lighting equipment and is ready to transform your event. Our lighting rental London services include:
- Custom lighting design.
- Full event management.
- Expert setup team.
- 24/7 technical support & more.
Closing lines
Don’t let poor lighting dim your event’s success. Lighting can have a significant impact on an event’s success. Whether you’re hiring corporate lighting for a conference, dramatic lighting for a gala night, or polished lighting for AGMs, getting the right setup is essential.
Remember, great lighting doesn’t just illuminate – it elevates.
So, if you want a stress-free event with flawless lighting, AV Productions is here to light up your event. From simple setups to grand productions, we’ll help your event sparkle. Give us a call at 0207 820 9000 or drop us an email to chat about your lighting hire needs.
