How to illuminate a catwalk fashion show

Why lighting is crucial in a fashion show

Lighting is one of the key elements for the success of a fashion show. Without proper optimisation, the details of the garments may be lost and the entire visual experience may be compromised. The right light allows the textures, colours and shapes of the garments to be highlighted, creating a dramatic effect that captures the attention of the audience and photographers.

Consequently, the lighting must be designed to eliminate unwanted shadows and ensure that each model is visible from all angles.

In addition, good lighting must be able to adapt to changes in the collection, accentuating the clothes so that each garment shines at its best. Bad lighting could, on the contrary, detract from the designers' work, making colours dull and details indistinguishable.

Recommended equipment for proper lighting

To achieve perfect lighting, it is essential to have the right equipment. Projectors are essential tools for creating powerful, directional light. There are various types of projectors, but the ones most commonly used in fashion shows are LED projectors, due to their ability to offer intense and adjustable light. These devices are also energy efficient and generate less heat than conventional lamps.

Another important tool are gelatine sheets, used to modify the colour of the light on demand. These tools make it possible to create customised lighting effects, adapting the tone of the light to the specific needs of the show. They can easily be placed in front of the projectors to filter the light and obtain the desired tone, which can vary from warm to cold, depending on the colours of the clothes presented.

Amlux's tips for lighting a fashion catwalk

Setting up lighting for a fashion show requires precision and planning. Unlike traditional stages, the catwalk is positioned in the middle of the audience, so the spotlights will have to be distributed high above the catwalk to cover it along its entire length. 

These lights should then be positioned in a V-shape, so as to illuminate both the front and the back of the models walking down the catwalk. This positioning is crucial to avoid the generation of shadows on the faces and to ensure uniform visibility of the garments. In addition, two spotlights should be placed high up at the end of the stage to highlight the models in front of the audience and photographers.

It is also important to find the right balance in the lighting: too much light can dazzle the audience and disturb the photographers, while too little light can make it difficult to appreciate the details of the clothes. Furthermore, it is crucial that the lights do not hit the audience directly, to avoid distraction and discomfort, and that they do not disturb the models walking down the catwalk.

Lighting must also be carefully adjusted to the needs of photographers. Poorly designed lighting can in fact compromise the quality of photos, making it difficult to capture sharp, well-defined images. Therefore, it is essential to rehearse before the show with the photographers to ensure that the lighting is optimal for their equipment.

The choice of light colour

The shade of the light must be chosen according to the colours of the clothes presented during the fashion show. A cool light is ideal for dresses with cool colours, such as black, blue, green and purple, as it enhances the brilliance and depth of these colours. Conversely, a warm light is better suited to dresses with warm colours, such as red, orange and yellow, creating a cosy and lively atmosphere.

In this sense, the aforementioned gelatine sheets are an effective method to change the light tone and achieve the desired effect.

Amlux solutions for lighting fashion catwalks

In this complex context, we at Amlux have projectors designed for fashion shows.

The Encore FR150Z LED projector is ideal for those looking for a powerful and adjustable lighting solution. With an intense and precise white light, this floodlight is perfect for illuminating the walkway without generating heat.

For greater versatility, the Vizi Wash Z19 380W RGBW Moving Head Projector is an excellent choice. This device offers a full colour gamut thanks to RGBW technology, which allows for dynamic and atmospheric light settings. The moving head allows the light to be precisely directed, illuminating moving models and adapting to the different phases of the fashion show.

Finally, the IP20 420W Focus Spot 7Z Moving Head Projector is perfect for those who need powerful, focused lighting, ideal for highlighting clothing details.

Conclusions and the role of Amlux

In conclusion, lighting plays a key role in the success of a fashion show, directly influencing the perception of the garments and the overall atmosphere of the event. In this context, we at Amlux have quality equipment to ensure optimal visibility and to enhance every detail of the clothes to the fullest.

Contact us now for more information or a targeted consultation!