How do you calculate the proper lighting for your church?
It all depends on many factors. It is important to consider how your church is set up and what you want to achieve. Different situations require different lighting techniques. You want your lighting setup as flexible as possible. A lighting system that can be used for multiple purposes will allow you to create a more pleasing environment.
The Right Lighting System
There are many lighting options that you have the option to choose from. It is important to provide church light. You need a lighting system that works for your building. There are several ways to do this. You have two options: either buy a complete lighting system from a company that specializes in church lighting, or you can build your own. No matter what you do, it is important to ensure that your lighting system is appropriate for the size of your church.
The vast majority of American churches have less than one hundred members. Most churches don’t have large buildings and are, therefore, modestly sized. Lighting setups can be made simple for many churches. Larger churches that have large congregations might want to invest more in lighting.
It is important to consider the dimensions of your building when calculating these things. The lighting must be appropriate for the space and size of your stage. These choices are made based on many factors. Hanging lights may not be possible in some churches due to their low ceilings. You will find buildings that are much longer than others. This means you must determine the right type and power of lighting for your particular situation.
The Right Types Of Light
Knowing how to select the right type of light for your church services is important. It is a good idea to access different types and colors of light. You may need warm lighting for specific service areas, such as the kitchen. Warm lighting has a relaxing effect that can help people relax. For certain sections of service, bright lighting is appropriate. However, softer lighting is better.
You need to consider both indirect and direct lighting options. Direct lighting is used in churches because it is placed above the stage and points directly at the lit area. Direct lighting is different because it lights a larger area than direct lighting and does not highlight one spot. Depending on the lighting you want, you may choose to use either one or both.
These two types of lighting are used in many churches. Direct lighting is used for most of the service. The sermon and choir may use direct lighting. There are many ways to set up your lights. It’s important to think about the type of lighting you use and your goals for the lighting.
Calculating the Optimal Positions of the Lights
It is in your best interest to take the time to calculate the best positions for the lights. You want your lighting to look the best. The best lighting will be achieved by placing the lights in the right places. While this is common sense, it is important to think about it.
You might want lights at the back of your church to point towards the stage, for example. Having some warm, soft lights above the pulpit may be a good idea. It may be necessary to position the lights to face the altar. No matter your requirements, you must have the lights in the best possible position to make things happen.
You can adjust the brightness of your lighting during different sections of a church service. You may prefer a more dynamic and enjoyable lighting experience for the praise and worship section. A soft light highlighting the pastor during the sermon is probably the best option. The best lighting option for an altar call in your church is to light the altar toward the end of the service. You will get the best results from the entire service if you calculate things correctly.
You may need to test things to determine how much light is needed. It is a good idea to test the lighting system before installing it. It should not take too long to set everything up, and you will be able to control the lights from a board in the sanctuary. This will enable you to control and change the lights as needed during the service.
Conclusion – How to Calculate Proper Lighting for a Church
It doesn’t have to be difficult to calculate the lighting conditions in your church. The results will be spectacular if you take the time to do it right. Everyone in your congregation will enjoy the light show you create. It can be fun for everyone to enjoy the lighting effects during worship songs. It is also a good idea to have more subtle lighting that helps people focus on the message in the sermon.
No matter your lighting needs, we can help you find the perfect lighting solution for your church. Larger churches will need different lighting than smaller ones. However, all churches should have good lighting. If you are patient and take the time to calculate everything properly, this can be achieved.
We hope you found our article helpful on calculating proper lighting in a church.
Sources:
- The Worship Attendance of the Majority of American Churches is Below 100 Retrieved on 1/25/19 from: https://factsandtrends.net/2016/02/24/majority-of-american-churches-fall-below-100-in-worship-attendance/
- When is warm lighting appropriate? Retrieved on 1/25/19 from: https://www.thespruce.com/warm-lighting-2175144
