Lighting
Follow Spot
Definition
A follow spot is a long-throw spotlight operated by hand to follow a moving performer. Its main controls are the colour changer (boomerang), the iris, which varies the size of the beam, the douser, which blacks out the beam quickly, and the gel frame. The operator takes cues over intercom from a caller, typically for a pick-up, a change of colour or iris, a fade or a blackout.
In the field
Conventions for follow spot calls vary from one production company to another. Each operator is therefore briefed on the calling system and its abbreviations before the show.
Sources
- Wikipédia (pointeur secondaire), Followspot : organes (iris, douser, boomerang) et conduite à l'intercom · en.wikipedia.org
- Shelley, A Practical Guide to Stage Lighting, 2e éd., Focal Press, 2009 : poursuites et tops