This guide was created as a point of departure for students, researchers and practitioners of lighting design. While exploring, keep in mind that your topic might fall under more than one of these categories.
The Lighting Design page was originally curated in 2015-16 by UCLA Arts Library Reference Desk Assistant Hale Polebaum-Freeman, an MLIS student in UCLA's Graduate School of Education & Information Studies.
UCLA does not provide subscriptions for these software programs, however, there are educational licenses available for students. Please visit the respective websites for more information.
Below are the industry standard software programs and helpful applications for theatrical lighting:
Whether you are looking for examples of modern or historical lighting design, imagery to help build and communicate your concept, or anything in between you will find some resources below. Please note that some resources require off-campus access privileges.
If you're looking for inspiration, physically browsing the stacks might be the way to go. Take a look in the following call number sections for books with images pertinent to lighting design — and make sure you check the oversize and double oversize sections as well!
N: Visual Arts (General)
NA: Architecture
NC: Drawing, Design, Illustration
ND: Painting
NK: Decorative Arts, Interior Design
PN: Performing Arts
TR: Photography
When searching catalogues and databases, knowing the "correct" terminology can make all the difference. Try using these subject headings in UC Library Search:
Stage Lighting
Television — Lighting
Cinematography — Lighting
Theaters — Lighting
Theaters — Stage setting and scenery