Lighting Technician how-to

How to Hang and Focus a Light

Proper hanging keeps fixtures safe and effective.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Proper hanging keeps fixtures safe and effective. In short: check; hang; attach, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Check the plot for position.

  2. Hang the fixture securely.

  3. Attach a safety cable.

  4. Connect power and DMX.

  5. Focus with the designer.

  6. Lock all adjustments.

Safety reminders for lighting technicians

  • Use fall protection at heights
  • Install safety cables on fixtures
  • Follow electrical safety and lockout
  • Wear gloves with hot fixtures

DMX · Cue · Fixture · Gel · Gobo · Truss: see the full lighting technician glossary.

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