I. What is an Ellipsoidal Reflector Spotlight (ERS)?
An Ellipsoidal Reflector Spotlight (ERS), also known as a leko or ellipsoidal, is a type of stage lighting instrument commonly used in concert lighting. It is designed to produce a controlled beam of light with a sharp focus and minimal spill. ERS fixtures are versatile and can be used for a variety of lighting effects on stage.
II. How does an ERS work?
An ERS consists of a lamp, reflector, lenses, and shutters. The lamp produces light, which is then reflected by the ellipsoidal reflector to create a parallel beam. The lenses in the fixture help to focus and shape the beam of light, while the shutters allow for precise control over the size and shape of the beam.
III. What are the key components of an ERS?
The key components of an ERS include:
– Lamp: The light source that produces the beam of light.
– Reflector: The ellipsoidal reflector that helps to create a parallel beam.
– Lenses: Lenses that focus and shape the beam of light.
– Shutters: Blades that can be adjusted to control the size and shape of the beam.
– Housing: The outer casing that holds all the components together.
IV. What are the advantages of using an ERS in concert lighting?
There are several advantages to using an ERS in concert lighting, including:
– Precise control: ERS fixtures allow for precise control over the size, shape, and focus of the light beam.
– Minimal spill: ERS fixtures are designed to minimize spill light, making them ideal for highlighting specific areas on stage.
– Versatility: ERS fixtures can be used for a variety of lighting effects, from highlighting performers to creating patterns and textures on stage.
– Long throw: ERS fixtures have a long throw distance, making them suitable for lighting up large areas on stage.
V. How can an ERS be used to create different lighting effects on stage?
An ERS can be used to create a variety of lighting effects on stage, including:
– Spotlighting: ERS fixtures are commonly used to spotlight performers or specific areas on stage.
– Gobo projection: By using a gobo, a stencil or template placed inside the fixture, ERS fixtures can project patterns or textures onto the stage.
– Shaping: The shutters on an ERS can be adjusted to shape the beam of light, creating different effects such as square or triangular beams.
– Color mixing: ERS fixtures can be fitted with color filters to create a wide range of colors on stage.
VI. What are some common applications of ERS in concert lighting?
ERS fixtures are commonly used in concert lighting for a variety of applications, including:
– Front lighting: ERS fixtures are often used as front lights to illuminate performers on stage.
– Backlighting: ERS fixtures can be used as backlighting to create depth and separation between performers and the background.
– Highlighting: ERS fixtures are used to highlight specific areas or objects on stage, such as props or set pieces.
– Texture and pattern projection: ERS fixtures can project gobos to create interesting textures and patterns on stage.
In conclusion, Ellipsoidal Reflector Spotlights (ERS) are versatile and powerful lighting fixtures that are commonly used in concert lighting for their precise control, minimal spill, and ability to create a variety of lighting effects on stage. With their long throw distance and ability to shape and focus the light beam, ERS fixtures are essential tools for lighting designers looking to create dynamic and visually stunning lighting designs for live performances.