Common Lighting Fixture Buying Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

With any project, whether it's a permanent installation for a theater, a temporary stage setup, a wedding, a warehouse build, or anything else, lighting is an essential element that needs careful consideration

Imagine a wedding with bad lighting that ruins the photos. Or a spotlight doesn't move with the actor during a performance.

Selecting the right lighting can be more complicated than expected. When a lighting fixture doesn't end up working in the space as you envisioned, that can be an expensive mistake. Below you'll find some of the common mistakes people make when buying lighting fixtures and the simple steps to avoid them.

Mistake #1: Selecting the Wrong Fixture Type for Its Application

Understanding the key differences between spot, beam, wash, and hybrid lights is the first step to avoiding buying the wrong fixture type. To learn more about differentiating lighting fixtures, click here. For example, if you purchased a beam fixture but your goal was to cover the stage with soft, wide-angle light, a wash light would have been the better choice.

Mistake #2: Overestimating the Available Power at the Intended Location

Choosing a large lighting fixture (or multiple) that requires a lot of power could be a great choice when dramatic lighting is intended, and there is plenty of power to handle that and everything else occurring the space. However, purchasing these larger fixtures when there is a lack of available power is not only a costly mistake with being unable to use all the fixtures, but an unsafe one when heat buildup becomes a concern.

Mistake #3: Not Taking Into Consideration the Environment the Fixture Will Be In

The environment the fixture will be in is a significant factor in making your choice. For example, does it require an outdoor rating for exposure to the elements, or does it need to be fanless for use in a small theater?

Mistake #4: Over/Underestimating Brightness

Consider the level of brightness appropriate for the space. For example, lights with high brightness in a small auditorium would be too blinding, bothering guests. But, a dim lights in a large auditorium may not be enough to properly illuminate the space.

Need help with your lighting fixture decision? Reach out to our knowledgeable sales staff today to get personalized help.