If you’re planning a concert, presentation, or private event, lighting isn’t something to leave to chance. It controls where people look and commands the entire tone of the space.

At Showtech Productions, we know that great event lighting depends on using the right tools in the right way. If you’re considering a lighting equipment rental for your next event, this guide will walk you through the core pieces you’ll want to understand before your event takes shape.

PAR Cans 

Parabolic Aluminum Reflector (PAR) cans are a solid choice when you need clear, dependable lighting. These reliable fixtures use reflective housing to project an intense, focused beam, making them ideal for concerts, conferences, trade shows and other events where certain areas need to stand out.

PAR cans can be used for static color washes, uplighting, or fixed highlights. They’re also cost-effective to rent, making them a smart pick when your event calls for several fixtures across a wide area.

LED Wash Lights 

If PAR cans offer directional beams, Light Emitting Diodes (LED) wash lights can give you wide-area coverage. They distribute light evenly and smoothly, making them helpful in setting color themes or lighting backdrops without hard edges or harsh shadows. 

Wash lights often come with RGB or RGBW color mixing, giving you access to a broad spectrum of tones. When programmed through a controller, they can change color, pulse, or fade to match music or moments.

Moving Head Lights 

Moving head lights bring energy and motion to your lighting design. These intelligent fixtures can rotate in any direction, shift colors, adjust brightness, and even project patterns. You’ve likely seen them sweeping across a crowd or zeroing in on a performer right on cue.

There are several types of moving head lights: 

• Spot moving heads create sharp beams and can project gobos for textured effects.
• Wash versions act like mobile LED washes, giving you smooth, wide coverage that moves with the show.
• Beam types produce tight, concentrated shafts of light that cut cleanly through the haze for dramatic aerial effects.

What makes moving heads so valuable is their ability to react in real-time. With proper programming, they can emphasize transitions or build anticipation. If your event calls for real-time control and visual precision, these lights belong in your setup.

Beam Lights 

Some moments need more punch. Beam lights produce narrow, intense beams that shoot through the air like laser lines. When paired with haze, those beams become clearly visible, adding a bold visual element to the space.

Beam lights are often used in concerts, festivals or any moment where lighting is meant to make a sharp visual statement. While they’re often used in music and nightlife settings, they can also work in corporate and theatrical events whenever you want to dial up the drama. 

Lighting Controller (DMX Console or Software) 

No lighting fixture performs at its best without a reliable control system. That’s what a lighting controller or DMX console is for.

It acts as the central hub, sending instructions to each connected gear. With it, you can manage brightness, color, movement, and timing for every fixture. You can also pre-program scenes and trigger effects on cue or adjust things on the fly if the event shifts direction.  

Trusses or Lighting Stands 

Trusses are aluminum frameworks often used to rig lighting overhead or around a stage perimeter. They’re strong enough to hold multiple fixtures and can be mounted on vertical supports or suspended from the ceiling, depending on the space.

On the other hand, stands are more portable and suitable for smaller or temporary installations. They allow flexibility in height and location and are ideal when ceiling rigging isn’t possible. 

No matter what your event looks like, you’ll need one of these to place your lights exactly where they’ll be most effective. 

Fog or Haze Machine

Lighting becomes more dynamic when it interacts with the air. A fog machine produces a thick mist, often used for dramatic entrances or timed visual effects. It fills a space quickly and makes lighting feel more immersive.

On the other hand, a haze machine creates a light, consistent mist that lingers in the air. This brings out the full effect of beams and movement, making your lighting more visible and layered.

If you aim for depth or atmosphere, haze can make a noticeable difference without overwhelming the room.

Let’s Build Your Lighting Setup

The equipment listed above covers the fundamentals of a solid setup. But if you want a fully produced, visually compelling experience, you’ll need more than just the basics. Every event has unique lighting demands, and meeting them requires a capable team.

At Showtech Productions, we provide professional lighting equipment backed by years of real-world experience. Our team handles everything from planning and prep to execution, so your event lighting feels intentional and seamless. Whether you need a few key pieces or a complete equipment rental package, we’ll ensure every light serves a clear purpose.

Planning something important? Request a proposal and see how we can bring your vision to life.