Ellipsoidal

An ellipsoidal is a highly versatile type of stage lighting instrument known for its exceptional control and precision. Unlike other lights that produce a soft, diffused glow, an ellipsoidal creates a crisp, well-defined beam of light.

Its name comes from the ellipsoidal reflector inside the fixture, which efficiently gathers light and directs it toward the front lens system. The key features that make an ellipsoidal a workhorse in theater and film include:

• Shutter Blades: Four internal shutters allow for precise shaping of the light beam into squares, triangles, or any custom shape.

• Gobo Slot: A dedicated slot allows for the insertion of a gobo (a metal or glass template) to project patterns, logos, or textures onto a surface.

• Sharp or Soft Focus: The lens can be focused to produce a razor-sharp edge or a soft, blurred effect, depending on the need.

This combination of features makes the ellipsoidal, also commonly referred to as an ERS (Ellipsoidal Reflector Spotlight) or "Leko," the go-to fixture for lighting designers who need to isolate specific areas, create dramatic effects, or project images with accuracy.