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Special Section: Lighting
Photo A
Albido Explained
Albido is the reflection of light from a given surface.
Photo A illustrates the effect of a white surface behind
the object being illuminated. Note the amount of light
spilling over the background, even though only one fixture
actually illuminates the model. Photo B also shows
a single fixture illuminating a given space, but with the
white background replaced with a black one. Note the
decreased spill of light, or decreased albido. As a result,
the black offers greater control of light.
In this instance, a blend of video and monochromatic (single-color) mixture allowed for a reduction
in fixture count while still allowing for use of color. One must still sacrifice mixing options, but color
remains available as a design element.
theatrical looks. This way, the design still augments the show
while allowing for a lack of available resources. (A note, however:
tread lightly along this path, as many directors will override
such decisions and insist on a more “realistic” design.)
In the event that a “theatrical” design proves out of
reach—whether as a result of directorial demands or
low-angle approaches prohibiting high angles to avoid
wash-out—one option remains: spreading the beams.
Many contemporary fixtures, such as the ubiquitous
Source Four series of ellipsoidals from ETC, allow designers
to trade narrower barrels—such as a 19-degree—for
wider throws, most often in the range of 50 degrees.
Some companies (Altman, for one) also offer 90-degree
fixtures that throw extraordinarily wide beams for tight
spaces. Increasing beam angle might reduce intensity,
but the increase in illuminated area per fixture reduces
the necessary fixture count to cover the stage, thus
allowing for better coverage in small spaces and reducing
necessary power draw.
Finally, in small spaces, a designer must see to it that
as much black surrounds the stage as possible. Albido
can destroy an otherwise beautiful design (see sidebar
for an explanation of Albido), so make certain to black
whatever possible in small theatres…including the
house itself.
Photo B
For Everyone
Most importantly, of course, both the LD, director
46 March 2010 • www.stage-directions.com