A laser light show is more than just a collection of hardware operated by technicians; it is an art form, a synesthetic experience where vision and sound perfectly combine. Laserists use their equipment and keen senses to create artistic performances that resonate emotionally with the audience. Timothy Walsh, a multi-talented artist, is dedicated to realizing the vision of synesthesia. His goal is not only to create beautiful imagery but also to synchronize it with music, striving to deliver an experience greater than the sum of its parts.
Information About Laser Light Shows
Typical Effects in a Laser Light Show
Several core visual effects are used in laser light shows, including direct laser beams, reflections, refraction effects (like Lumia), and diffraction grating. The combination of these effects creates captivating scenes in laser performances. These laser lights are often used in a variety of events, from concerts to private functions, even as elegant wedding lights for a unique, memorable experience.
Direct Beams and Reflections
Direct beams are the most basic effect in a laser show, where the laser light travels through the air, sometimes reflected by mirrors to create complex geometrical shapes. To make the beams visible (since light itself is invisible unless it reflects off a surface), artificial fog or haze is introduced into the air. This produces a scattering effect, known as "enhanced scattering," making the beam's trajectory visible. Water, such as fountains or mist, can also scatter the beams, creating bright flashes along the light path. This effect is particularly striking when used alongside outdoor lights in open-air settings.
Refraction Effects – Lumia
Lumia is an effect created by passing a laser beam through slowly rotating transparent objects, such as a piece of "shower door glass." This effect produces visual patterns resembling nebulae or the aurora, offering a dreamlike and mesmerizing experience. For outdoor laser level shows, these effects can be amplified with additional reflective surfaces and water features.
Diffraction Grating Effects
A diffraction grating can split a single laser beam into multiple beams, an affordable way to amplify the visual impact of a laser light show, especially in large-scale settings.
Information About Lasers
LASER stands for "Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation." The lasers used in Starshine's laser shows are gas-discharge lasers, similar to neon lights. The gas inside the tube emits photons (small packets of light) when electrically charged, and two mirrors placed at each end reflect the photons back and forth to form a laser beam.
Lasers have three key properties that make them ideal for light shows:
1.Monochromatic: The light is of a single, pure color (though some lasers can emit multiple colors, each one is pure and not muddied).
2.Collimated: The light does not spread out like other types of light (such as incandescent bulbs), allowing the beam to stay sharp and focused.
3.Intensity: Laser beams do not lose their strength over distance, ensuring consistent brightness for far-reaching projections, perfect for both indoor and outdoor laser level performances.
Laserists use customized projectors, image synthesizers, computers, and other equipment to manipulate laser lights, projecting graphics such as spirals, abstract shapes, clouds, fireworks-like bursts, and even names, logos, and messages. These effects are often complemented by outdoor lights in large-scale productions to create a dynamic visual experience.
Key Considerations in Laser Light Show Production
When producing a laser light show, the first consideration is the reliability and repeatability of all effects. The lasers and projectors must remain perfectly stationary between performances. The equipment is often very heavy and difficult to move once set up and aligned. We have observed situations where a laser was set up but not securely connected to the projector, and a simple accidental bump could have misaligned the beams, ruining the show and potentially posing safety risks.
The second consideration is that all beams and lights must be fully controlled before they appear and achieve the desired effect. Projectors should be designed to ensure all moveable covers are securely fastened, containing all light until the effect is activated. This helps maintain darkness, enhances the show’s aesthetic, and prioritizes safety.
Direct Beams and Reflections – Enhanced Scattering
One of the simplest effects in a laser light show is the use of stationary direct beams traveling through the air, which can also be reflected off mirrors. To make these beams visible, artificial fog or mist is introduced into the atmosphere, creating enhanced scattering. The particles in the air reflect the laser lights, making the beams visible. Water can also be used to scatter the light, adding a stunning visual element, particularly for outdoor lights in open-air shows.
Refraction Effects – Lumia
Lumia effects occur when laser lights pass through a slowly rotating transparent object, creating the illusion of outer space nebulae or the Northern Lights. This mesmerizing visual is enhanced by additional reflections, which may send beams into unexpected areas. These effects can also be utilized in special events like weddings, where wedding lights using laser technology can create an enchanting atmosphere.
Diffraction Grating Effects
A diffraction grating splits a single laser beam into many beams, a cost-effective way to increase the visual power of the laser light show.
Pricing Guide
When determining the price for a laser show, the basic question is: Where will your show take place—indoors or outdoors? A good starting guideline for pricing is as follows:
Indoor Shows: $520 - $5000
Outdoor Shows: $450 - $20,000
Clients needing multiple performances at the same location can receive a discount.
Outdoor shows tend to cost more to achieve the desired effect. They are usually planned for larger crowds and often take place in well-lit environments, meaning higher-powered lasers are typically required. Additional lasers might be necessary, increasing the overall cost.
Considerations for Planning a Laser Show
When planning a laser light show, several factors need to be considered:
Graphics Projection: If you need laser graphics or logos, a relatively flat, light-colored surface is required for projection. A large white concrete wall is ideal. Starshine Lighting offers outdoor projection screens measuring 30 feet by 20 feet, which can be mounted on scaffolding, hung over stages, or suspended from pipes raised by crank lifts. The graphics screen will be the focal point of the show, and the beam effects will be designed around it for optimal visibility.
Power Supply: Power requirements can range from 120V AC to 208V 3-phase, depending on the laser equipment used.
Water: Normally, none is required. However, some lasers are cooled by water flowing through them to dissipate heat generated by the laser process. A standard garden hose connection is ideal.
Audience Control: As long as the beams remain overhead, laser effects are legal. In most cases, we mount the lasers on sturdy scaffolding to elevate the beams to a safe height (3 meters). In some situations, crowd-control barriers or security staff may be necessary to prevent unauthorized access to restricted areas.
Setup Time
For indoor shows, it is recommended to allow six to eight hours for setting up the laser light show. For outdoor shows, it is advised to set up and test the equipment one to two days before the scheduled performance.
Laser light shows combine art and technology to create a mesmerizing visual experience. Success in planning a laser performance relies on considering the venue, equipment requirements, and audience safety. By addressing these factors, a truly impactful and memorable show can be delivered, whether it’s an intimate gathering with wedding lights or a grand outdoor laser level spectacle.