For studios with low ceilings, the limited vertical space poses a challenge for lighting layout and the choice of fixtures. We often encounter large studios that only have about 3 meters of ceiling height. In such environments, it’s essential to make effective use of space while ensuring even lighting distribution to avoid unnecessary shadows or excessive reflection. This article offers some suggestions for tackling the lighting challenges in studios with low ceiling heights.
1. Track Installation
Due to ceiling height constraints, using tracks might make it easy for equipment to appear in shots. Installing lights directly on the ceiling restricts fixture mobility, making dimming inflexible. Some suggest using tripods to support lights from the ground, which allows for mobility and can solve equipment visibility issues. However, this is only feasible for key lights, not for backlights or overhead lights. A better option is to install short tracks on walls or ceilings to minimize space usage and optimize light distribution.
Aluminum alloy tracks mounted directly on the ceiling allow fixtures to move laterally, saving space and simplifying adjustments, though forward and backward movement is not possible. Therefore, it’s advised to arrange lighting for blue screens or live areas in one go to prevent underlit areas.
2. Grid System + Light Hooks
For virtual studio blue screen lighting, consider using a 4×4 square steel to make a grid above the blue screen, hanging fixtures from the ceiling with light hooks. This method offers adjustable lighting and space-saving benefits, though repositioning fixtures can be somewhat cumbersome. Typically, studio lighting undergoes minimal changes once the show format is set, so this drawback is relatively minor.
EverSirius’s mini LED Panel EX80 is particularly suitable for low-ceiling studios and ENG lighting, due to its compact design and high light output. It has received RFQs from NRK and praise from many partners.
3. Recessed Panel Lights
Installing recessed panel lights requires ceiling construction to embed the fixtures into the ceiling structure. This approach significantly saves ceiling height space and offers a sleek appearance by hiding everything but the light-emitting surface. It can create a uniform, shadow-free lighting environment.
EverSirius’s BeamPro series, the recessed LED panel lights are ideally suited for low-ceiling studios, such as live broadcasting rooms, conference rooms, and lecture recording studios.
Additionally, EverSirius’ BeamFlex series, with its thin, foldable design, can be easily moved and used in any ceiling height without the need for ceiling modifications, offering greater adaptability.
4. Soft Boxes and Diffusion Materials
To avoid harsh shadows and glare from direct lighting, soft boxes or other diffusion materials can be used on lights. This not only softens the light but also enhances its even distribution, reducing the negative impact of limited ceiling height.
5. Utilizing Light Reflectors
In studios with low ceilings, installing reflectors on walls or ceilings can increase indirect lighting, effectively utilizing the space’s internal light for a softer, more uniform effect. Choosing materials with high reflectivity maximizes light efficiency.
