Guides
How we program, sync and tour light shows. Timecode, playback rigs, rehearsals and the rest.
August 7, 2025 Light Shows Make Core Fans
For emerging artists, lighting is one of the first ways a live show becomes memorable.
August 7, 2025 How To Get Into the Stage Lighting Industry
There’s more than one way to get into the lighting industry.
April 15, 2025 What makes a successful Live Visual Production in 2025? An honest take.
Visual production in 2025 isn’t just about blowing people’s minds with the most expensive gear you can get your hands on —it’s about meaningful creative choices and smart planning.
March 4, 2025 Renting vs. Buying: Lights for Music Artists
When it's time to add stage lighting to a live show, it can be tempting to just buy your own lights. Whether you're a band playing one show a month locally, a DJ or artist with fly dates, or a bus tour performing several weeks, here are some pros and cons that might be worth considering before your next big investment.
March 4, 2025 Duck Lights Plug & Play 101
“Set & Forget” Light show playback for your next tour
March 4, 2025 TIMECODE 101: How to Use Timecode for Live Shows (+ a free timecode download!)
Whether you're orchestrating a live concert, setting up a multimedia exhibition, or diving into the world of video production, understanding the essentials of timecode can elevate a project to top-tier!
February 11, 2025 8 Ways to Prepare for Your Next Tour
Eight steps for new artist and tour managers to set up a smooth, affordable tour: budgeting, timelines, routing, creative, promo, crew, rehearsals and show day.
January 27, 2025 Guide to Do-it-Yourself Lighting Software
Ways to embrace the emotional potential of the show.
May 24, 2024 Top 5 Benefits of a Lighting Board Operator for Film Shoots
Why film and TV shoots benefit from a lighting board operator: faster resets, saved presets, timecoded looks and 3D previs with consoles like grandMA2.
February 22, 2024 · Lighting Programming EDM Light Show Programming: The Ultimate Guide to Electrifying Visuals
Unlock the secret to electrifying EDM live shows with our ultimate guide to lightshow programming. Explore the dynamic approaches of Busking, Punting, and Timecode Programming to enhance your visual performance. Whether you're an artist manager or a lighting director, learn how to create unforgettable live spectacles that resonate with your audience. Dive into the world of EDM visuals with Duck Lights and transform your next event in Los Angeles and beyond.
February 22, 2024 · Lighting Programming Live Show Production Rehearsals for Lighting & Visuals 101
Unlock the secrets to powerful live shows with our concise guide on efficient production rehearsals for lighting and visuals. Learn how to use strategic planning, task batching, and targeted pre-rehearsal prep to make every rehearsal count. Perfect for multitasking lighting directors and creatives, our tips will help you streamline your process and dazzle your audience. Transform your next performance into an unforgettable experience.
January 11, 2024 · Lighting Programming Syncing Up to Showkontrol: A Beginner's Guide
Discover how to elevate your DJ performances with our easy-to-follow Showkontrol guide. Ideal for beginners, learn to sync Showkontrol with Pioneer CDJ decks, GrandMA2, Resolume, and networking for dynamic lighting and visuals. Your journey to captivating, synchronized DJ sets starts here! #Showkontrol #DJGuide #VisualSync
December 12, 2023 · Audio Playback Best Hardware Playback Systems for Live Shows
Discover the best hardware systems for live shows: JoeCo Blackbox for multi-track playback, Cymatic Audio uTrack24 for versatile recording, iConnectivity PlayAUDIO12 for compact setups, LP16 for simplicity, and Radial SW8 for robust redundancy. Plus, explore recommended Rack Cases for ultimate equipment protection on tour.
December 12, 2023 · Audio Playback Best Audio Interfaces for Live Shows
Explore top audio interfaces for live shows: iConnectivity PlayAUDIO12 for industry-standard redundancy, MOTU 828 MK3 for versatile connectivity and onboard DSP, and MOTU M4 for portability and affordability. Each offers unique features, from MIDI capabilities to high-quality preamps, suited for different live performance needs.
December 12, 2023 · Lighting Programming Core Showfiles for Lighting Programming
In the modern concert lighting environment, each lighting programmer's showfile is like a secret recipe, known only to the chef who creates it. Learn how grandMA2 core showfiles evolve your production!
May 28, 2019 · Audio Playback Best Audio Playback Software for Live Shows
Explore the top DAWs for complete control in music projects: Ableton Live for dynamic live manipulation, Logic Pro's vast sound library, Pro Tools' industry-leading editing, Reaper's affordability, and Cubase's MIDI excellence. Find the perfect fit for your music journey.
May 28, 2019 6 Common Lighting Design Mistakes for DJs and Festival Performances
Designing an effective lighting setup can be challenging, and even minor mistakes can lead to significant consequences. In this blog post, we will discuss six common mistakes to avoid when creating a lighting design for your DJ event or festival performance.