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The Changing Role of the Lighting Designer

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In the second part of our conversation with Latvian lighting designer Andrejs Dubkovs, we discuss how the role of the lighting designer continues to evolve, the importance of collaboration, and what the future might hold for the industry in the Baltics. (You can read the first part here - The Role of Dialogue in Lighting Design)

You’ve said that many lighting designs today look “too similar.” Why is that happening?
— Because everyone is chasing trends and repeating each other. Lighting design has become overly polished, overly safe. People rely too much on presets and standard looks. Very few ask: why do I need this light, what does it say? 

How would you describe the key responsibilities of a lighting designer today?

— The basics never change. There are three key tasks: first, make sure the scene is visible. Second, switch the light on and off at the right time. Only then comes the third: create effect. But now, people start with the effect — and forget the fundamentals. That’s a mistake.

Which technologies are becoming outdated — and what’s replacing them?

— Incandescent bulbs are already disappearing. But the techniques and theory behind lighting don’t change. What’s different is how people use technology. Today, too many hide behind it — they depend on it instead of developing real creative thinking. Tools become a shield.

Is PixelMap, Beam, motion control — just trendy, or essential now?

— It’s fashion, yes. It looks impressive. But let’s be honest — it’s all math, generated by software. It saves time, but it doesn’t generate real creativity. If you don’t have a creative vision in your head, no software will give it to you.

How important is it to learn visualizers like Capture or Depence?

— Very important. These tools save time, money, and help plan projects better. But again, they don’t replace creativity — they support it.

Let’s talk about community. Why is open dialogue among professionals so important?

— Because we all live in our own little worlds. Everyone thinks their experience is universal. But when we meet, we see we’re not alone. We hear other opinions. We feel supported. That’s why meetups matter — to connect, to share, to grow together.

Have you experienced situations where collaboration helped you find the best solution?

— Absolutely. On almost every project, I find new ideas through teamwork. Sometimes I might get stuck — and someone on the team says something that opens a new direction. That’s the magic of working with people.

What about the future of lighting in Latvia and the Baltics?

— It’s hard to say. The industry here has always been strong technologically. But I think cheaper products from Asia will enter soon, and that might shift the market. I just hope that in theatres especially, people will prioritize *quality*. And the next generation of lighting designers will bring fresh perspectives.

What advice would you give to young lighting designers just starting out?

— Don’t lose your grip. Learn. Explore. Draw. Observe the world around you. Don’t rely only on technology — use your eyes, your memory, your intuition. Set high goals and work toward them. Every day is a lesson.

Coming next: In Part 3 of the series, we’ll reflect on the core artistic philosophy behind lighting as a medium — and how young professionals can rediscover meaning in their work.

This interview is part of the Lighting Professionals Series by VGD Project.
Read Part 1 here - The Role of Dialogue in Lighting Design