NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – Producing fresh content this summer has proved to be a challenge for some networks, but Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) the world’s largest Christian television network and America’s most-watched faith-and-family channel had faith it could be done. TBN lighting designer Brad Hill supplemented the studio lighting with a rental package from Bandit Lites.
The goal was to accomplish five different shoots over five days, including the Independence Day Music Special hosted by Mike Huckabee featuring guests Lee Greenwood and the Oak Ridge Boys; Huckabee, a weekly variety show boasting a trapeze act, live audience and Todd Tilghman, winner of NBC’s The Voice; Better Together, an in-the-round women’s talk show hosted by TBN’s Laurie Crouch with guests Elizabeth Hasselbeck, CeCe Winans and others, as well as two episodes of TBN’s flagship show, Praise, with musical artists and interview guests.
The main challenge was to ensure each show was shot in a different configuration, meaning versatility was going to be key in the rental lighting package.
“We didn’t want all the shows over the week to look identical, so we had to get creative with our designs with very limited reset time,” explained Hill. “The theater is designed for a weekly talk show and our lighting setup is very specific to that show. Most of our key lighting consists of LED Lekos.
“When Brad reached out to us, he was looking for something old school to highlight the background with vivid intensity,” said Bandit Lites Client representative, Shawn Lear. “The Mega-lite Circa Scoop worked out perfectly for the desired look needed. Next, we went through many of our LED profiles and the Ayrton Khamsin checked all the boxes.”
“The Khamsin put out a beautiful light,” said Hill. “I could dial in a specific color temperatures, tweak color tints on faces, then rock nice beams with sharp patterns for music, all from one unit. The shutter system was smooth, and I loved the light frost I could pop in to soften my beam edges, without reducing too much intensity.”
The Mega-lite Circa Scoop supplied the eye candy, moving around the set throughout the week. With its classic appearance coupled with modern advancements, the Circa Scoop helped in providing distinct looks to each show.
“I’m a fan of all the different layers of illumination it has to offer for eye candy,” said Hill. The segmented color mixing/ chasing outer ring is pretty on its own. Add in the color changing/ chase ability of the internal reflector, the different color glows of the bulb itself, and the LED tape on the back of the ring and it is hard not to like the options. You can go from modern to retro with a button click.”
“Brad’s history and knowledge as a designer is stellar,” said Lear. “Following our initial conversation and learning more about Bandit Lites inventory, Brad’s choices proved to be both practical and creative for their broadcast.”
“Bandit was fantastic, and Shawn really worked with us to keep within our budget.,” finished Hill. “Shawn and the guys had everything prepped and ready to go for us to hit the ground running! They were top notch in their service and very professional.”
About Bandit Lites, Inc.
Bandit Lites is a global leader in the entertainment lighting marketplace. From touring productions to fixed installations, Bandit Lites has a full staff of highly trained professionals to deal with all types of lighting needs. Bandit’s global presence will ensure seamless transitions no matter where your next show takes you. More information available at www.BanditLites.com