Crew Resources - Software
Design software is utilized in all aspects of the entertainment industry. The days of hand rendering, though not completely laid to rest, have been replaced with software tools that allow designers and technicians to work and communicate more clearly and more efficiently. While most of the standard software used in the industry come at lofty prices (in the thousands of dollars), there are some options available for modest budgets - and even some that is free. At SFS, we try to utilize as much free software as works best for our production workflow so that we can involve students in the creative process and give them access to these tools. Below are links to some of the software used at SFS:
LXSeries 2D Lighting Design
This free piece of software is used for two dimensional light plots. While it does not include a visualizer for 3D lighting visualization, it provides all the tools needed for creating standard light plots and paperwork as would be created and distributed on professional shows.
Trimble Sketchup
Sketchup is a free piece of software used for three dimensional design. At SFS, we utilize Sketchup for the design and visualization of sets and scenic elements for productions. The 3D nature of the program allows for the production team to visualize what the finished space will look like on the stage, as well as an idea of the spacing of set pieces. Sketchup is also used for construction drawings used during the build phase of the production cycle.
Sketchup is a free piece of software used for three dimensional design. At SFS, we utilize Sketchup for the design and visualization of sets and scenic elements for productions. The 3D nature of the program allows for the production team to visualize what the finished space will look like on the stage, as well as an idea of the spacing of set pieces. Sketchup is also used for construction drawings used during the build phase of the production cycle.
Figure53 QLab
QLab is a piece of software used for live show control. It comes in a number of packages, including a free version. At SFS, we utilize the free version of QLab for audio playback control and programming.
QLab is a piece of software used for live show control. It comes in a number of packages, including a free version. At SFS, we utilize the free version of QLab for audio playback control and programming.