Dance Studio Lighting Part 2

Every location has lighting needs unique to the location. When it comes to dance studio lighting, there are special considerations to keep in mind. Here are a few tips on choosing the best dance studio lighting for your location.

1. Track lighting is ideal. There are many fixture types available, but directional track lighting is a mainstay in studios because it offers adequate illumination without being overpowering. It can also be directed easily to achieve the desired directional beam output. For instance, if the studio has wall to ceiling mirrors, as most dance studios tend to employ, the direction can be aimed so that it falls just above the mirrors to avoid a glare.
2. Sconces are a sensible choice. The other most commonly seen lighting solution in dance studio lighting is sconce lighting. This style of fixture is ideal because it uses uplight for the most part. While there are sconces that offer more downlight than uplight, or even equal amounts of both directional outputs, uplights work well because they provide soft illumination that won’t interfere with the student’s visibility. Sconces should not be the only source of light for the dance studio. Scones should be an additional light source and not the main source of illumination.
3. The type of bulbs is important. There are drawbacks and benefits to each type of bulb available for dance studio lighting. Halogens are long lasting, but can create more heat in a space that needs to stay more comfortable and cool. Incandescent bulbs aren’t as long lasting, but they offer lower temperatures and a soft light that is easy on eyes. LED is the longest lasting and lowest temperature, but it tends to have poor color rendering and the white light can be too harsh for this location. Most dance studios opt for fluorescent bulbs and combine it with natural light where applicable.
4. Combine different light fixtures for the best results. A well-designed lighting plan for studios should have track lighting, sconces, and natural light for the best mix. It is important to also note that lighting should be varied throughout the different areas of the studio. For instance, the lobby area should be bright for filling out any paperwork while the dance space should be softer to avoid distractions.
5. Use natural light when possible. Natural light can be a great resource for a dance studio. If the space has large windows that face away from potential distractions, it can be a great asset. If the building faces distractions, windows should be placed higher up to avoid any issues.