How to Choose the Right Beam Angle for Your Moving Head Beam Light

How to Choose the Right Beam Angle for Your Moving Head Beam Light

Are you overwhelmed by the many beam angle options available when it comes to choosing a moving head beam light? Fear not! In this article, we will guide you through the process of selecting the perfect beam angle for your needs. Follow these simple steps, and you will be sure to find the right beam angle for your moving head beam light.

What is a beam angle?

Before diving into how to choose the right beam angle, it is essential to understand what a beam angle is. The beam angle refers to the width of the light beam coming out of your moving head beam light. The narrower the beam angle, the more focused and intense the light will be. Conversely, the wider the beam angle, the softer and wider the light will appear.

Determine your lighting needs

Before selecting a beam angle, it is imperative to think about your lighting needs. What type of event will you be lighting, and what effect do you want to create? Consider whether you want to create a focal point or illuminate a larger area.

Subtle ambient lighting requires a beam angle between 30 and 60 degrees, while a narrow 5-15 degree beam angle is better suited for creating dramatic focal points. A wider beam angle between 60 and 120 degrees is ideal for spreading light over a larger area, creating an even and uniform wash.

Consider the distance

The distance between your moving head beam light and the object it is illuminating is another crucial factor to consider when selecting a beam angle. A longer throw distance will require a narrower beam angle to achieve a focused beam of light. Conversely, a shorter throw distance will benefit from a wide beam angle to cover a larger area.

Choose your lighting effect

The beam angle you choose will determine the mood and lighting effect created. If you are looking to create a spotlight effect, a narrow(5-15 degree) beam angle is ideal. For a more widespread and even effect, choose a 60-90 degree beam angle. A medium 25-45-degree beam angle works well for lighting larger areas while still maintaining a degree of focus.

Beam angle and setback

Setback refers to the distance from the wall or stage where your moving head beam light is positioned. The setback distance is also a crucial factor to consider when selecting your beam angle. A narrow beam angle and a long setback distance can lead to a spotlight effect with a hot spot in the center. In contrast, a wide beam angle and a short setback distance can create unwanted shadows.

Consider overlapping beams

Suppose you are using multiple moving head beam lights in your lighting design. In that case, you should consider how their beams will overlap. A wide beam angle covering an area in the front and a narrower beam angle focusing light in the back can create a stunning layered effect when overlapping.

Conclusion

When it comes to selecting the right beam angle for your moving head beam light, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Consider your lighting needs, distance, setback, and lighting effect when selecting a beam angle. Keep in mind that you can always experiment with different beam angles until you find the perfect one for your needs. With these simple steps, you are sure to select the perfect beam angle for your moving head beam light.