Setting up as a DJ for the first time can be a costly endeavour; from decks to mixers to microphones to speaker systems, putting together a viable rig costs money. Flexible DJ finance can help, but keeping costs to the bare minimum is the preferred option for most newcomers.
As a result, DJ lighting is often overlooked as a superfluous extra. It makes no difference to the quality of the audio you put out, so surely it is not that important, right?
Wrong.
Why You Need DJ Lighting
Think back to the most epic live performances, club events and festivals you have ever attended. Now, picture those same events with absolutely no visual effects whatsoever.
Whichever way you look at it, the visual aspect makes a massive contribution to any live performance. It may not be quite as important as the music itself, but the key to putting on an unforgettable performance lies in creating a multi-sensory experience for those in attendance.
The most epic music events are as much about ambience and atmosphere as they are on-stage talent. If you are serious about making it as a DJ, you need to put on the show of a lifetime, every time you perform.
Something that becomes much easier to do with the right visual hardware, beginning with high-quality DJ lighting.
Selecting DJ Lighting by Venue and Occasion
The type of lighting equipment you should set your sights on will be determined by the type of DJ you are and the venues you play. It is a case of striking the right balance – you neither want to overdo it or underdo it.
Turning up to a 50th wedding anniversary bash with a van full of lasers, smoke machines and strobes is not going to work in your favour. Neither is playing a wild 21st birthday party in a club with nothing more than a dull mirror ball and a couple of spotlights.
Put yourself in the position of those you are looking to entertain, and think about exactly what you would expect to see. If short on inspiration, check out a few videos on YouTube of the kinds of events you play.
You will often find that most established venues will provide most of the visual hardware you need to put on a great show. But as this cannot always be relied upon, it’s better to at least set yourself up with the basics.
Essential DJ Lighting Hardware
Now the good news; quality DJ lighting and visual hardware can be surprisingly affordable. If you are simply looking to set yourself up with the basics, doing so need not break the bank.
Examples of essential DJ lighting gear include matrix lights, moving heads, strobe lights, LED mirror balls, smoke machines and UV lights – all of which can be picked up for fairly low prices.
Alternatively, consult with your preferred retailer for their own input and suggestions. If affordability is an issue, consider spreading the costs with an affordable DJ finance deal from a reputable provider.
