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Freelance Lighting Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Weissman

Freelance Photo Assistant

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$61 - $69/hr

JOB TITLE Freelance Photo Assistant LOCATION St. Louis, Missouri (On-Site) ENGAGEMENT TYPE 1099 ... lighting techniques to enhance quality * Communicate effectively with photographers, art directors ...

Weissman

Freelance Digitech

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$61 - $69/hr

Coordinate closely with photographers and art directors to meet creative needs * Perform file ... Experience with professional camera systems (Canon, Phase One, Nikon, Sony) and studio lighting ...

Weissman

Freelance Production Artist

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

JOB TITLE Freelance Production Artist LOCATION St. Louis, Missouri (On-Site) ENGAGEMENT TYPE 1099 ... lighting, and color corrections as needed * Collaborate closely with photographers, art directors ...

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Freelance Lighting Director information

What does a freelance lighting director do?

A Freelance Lighting Director is responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing the lighting setup for live events, television shows, film productions, and theater performances. They work closely with directors, producers, and other technical staff to create the desired mood and ensure proper visibility for the audience and cameras. As freelancers, they are hired on a project-by-project basis and must be adaptable to different venues and production styles. Their tasks include creating lighting plots, programming lighting consoles, supervising installation, and troubleshooting any issues that arise during the production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance lighting director?

To thrive as a Freelance Lighting Director, you need a solid understanding of lighting design, electrical systems, and stage production, often backed by a degree in technical theater or equivalent experience. Familiarity with lighting control consoles (such as ETC or GrandMA), DMX protocols, and industry-standard software is crucial. Strong problem-solving, creativity, and effective communication with production teams set outstanding professionals apart. These skills ensure visually impactful, safe, and seamless productions tailored to each unique event or performance.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance lighting directors when working on live events, and how can they be managed?

Freelance lighting directors often encounter challenges such as tight setup timelines, adapting to unfamiliar venues, and coordinating with multiple teams (audio, stage management, production). To manage these, it's important to conduct thorough pre-event planning, maintain clear communication with all departments, and be flexible in adapting lighting designs to on-site constraints. Building strong relationships with local crew and staying up-to-date with the latest lighting technology can also help ensure smooth event execution.

What is the difference between Freelance Lighting Director vs Freelance Gaffer?

AspectFreelance Lighting DirectorFreelance Gaffer
CredentialsLighting design experience, industry knowledgeElectrical and lighting certifications, technical skills
Work EnvironmentOn-set, collaborating with directors and cinematographersOn-set, managing lighting equipment and electrical setups
Industry UsageFilm, television, theater productionsFilm, television, commercial shoots
Role FocusDesigning lighting concepts and overall visual styleImplementing lighting plans, managing lighting equipment

While both Freelance Lighting Directors and Freelance Gaffers work on lighting in film and TV productions, the Lighting Director focuses on designing the overall lighting concept and visual style, whereas the Gaffer handles the technical execution, managing lighting equipment and electrical setups on set.

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Freelance Lighting Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Lighting Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

KABC Freelance Directors

5127 KABC Television, LLC

Glendale, CA • On-site

$73.38 - $98/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Posting Title: KABC Freelance Directors Req ID: 10154264 ABC7 Los Angeles, the ABC Owned Station in Southern California, delivers top-rated news coverage across television, digital, social, and streaming platforms. Seeking Freelance (DGA) Directors to join our team to work on live newscasts and live local productions. Responsibilities Direct fast-paced, top-market newscasts and handle major breaking news as it happens in a single-operator control room environment. Stage manage newscasts and live productions as required. Basic Qualifications An exceptional ability to multitask under pressure. Working experience as a director with Ross Overdrive as a single-operator director. Understanding of coding and monitoring camera blocking/movement while directing a live show. Ability to operate, adjust, and drive robotic camera systems while directing a live show. Ability to monitor and adjust code for audio changes and levels while directing a live show. Strong sense of newscast structure and breaking-news judgement. Operational knowledge of the DALET Newsroom computer system. Must interact with various departments and have exceptional organizational skills. Understanding of broadcast studio lighting. Understanding of microphone placement for news talent and guests. Must be willing to work any combination of overnight, weekend, and holiday shifts. Minimum of 10 years experience directing live newscasts in a major market. Preferred Qualifications Knowledge of peripheral devices such as XPression Graphics and Ross Artimo robotic camera systems. Required Education High School Diploma. Preferred Education College Degree. Availability of shifts may vary. This position offers no guarantee of a set weekly schedule or guaranteed hours. The pay rate for this role in Glendale, California is $73.38 to $98.00 per hour, which follows the pay scale agreed upon in the DGA Collective Bargaining Agreement. The base pay actually offered may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience, among other factors. Select benefits may be provided as part of the compensation package, such as medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered. To learn more about our benefits at https://jobs.disneycareers.com/benefits. #J-18808-Ljbffr

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