Tag: rentals

Rentals

Posted on by Big City

 

Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice.
Please call to check availability – 416 894 4025

located at:

2370 Midland Ave – UNIT B9
Toronto, ON, M1S 5C6

Pricing is based on self pick up and return to our location.
Prices DO NOT include taxes, set up, delivery or return pick up.
If you require any of these services, please Contact Us for a quote.

All rentals are based on a 24 hour period or portion thereof,  ask us about our weekend rates!

 

Big City Lights is a lighting company that offers services for the film industry, photographers, events, stage shows and parties. We do both sales and rentals. We offer self serve pick up from our location, or we can deliver and/or offer set up in and around the GTA including Toronto, Scarborough, North York, Etobicoke, Richmond Hill, Markham, Thornhill, Vaughn, East York, Ajax, Pickering, Brampton, Oakville, Oshawa, Mississauga and more! Contact us for a quote.

We have been in the lighting business for over 15  years, and we offer great customer service in Toronto and the GTA.  Big City Lights works with event planners, filmmakers, photographers, video production companies, DJs, churches, synagogues and other places of worship to create the perfect lighting for your special event, concert, film shoot, photography shoot, party or stage show.  We  currently serve the areas of Scarborough, Toronto, Brampton, Mississauga, North York, Etobicoke, Richmond Hill, Markham, Vaughn, Thornhill,  East York, Pickering, Ajax, Oshawa and Oakville and more!  Contact us today for your wedding lighting, event lights or party lighting!

 

 

affordable rental of lighting and AV equipment in Toronto Canada. We have a large selection of rental lights rental film lighting LED lighting and audio visual equipment. Based in Toronto Canada and we sell to all of Canada and the USA. Video equipment and lights for all events and parties stage shows and concerts we even rent ring lights!

Black Lights Party Event UV Ultraviolet Canada

Comparison of Blacklight (UV) Lights by Big City Lights

Posted on by Kyle Spencer

Glow In Dark UV Ultraviolet black light blacklight Curtains Party Decorations Canada

Blacklights are useful in entertainment, art, and event lighting. They shine ultraviolet light that makes fluorescent materials glow, making them great for stage effects and parties. At Big City Lights, we offer several types of blacklights with different wattages and designs. Here’s a breakdown of each option and where it might be best suited.

9W Blacklight Bulb
A 9-watt blacklight bulb is the most basic and compact option. It’s ideal for small spaces or decorative use, such as accent lighting or small displays. It doesn’t cover a large area but provides enough UV output for subtle glowing effects on nearby objects.

12W PAR Blacklight
The 12-watt PAR blacklight provides a moderate increase in brightness and coverage compared to a standard bulb. It’s commonly used for small room setups, or points of interest. The spotlight style also helps focus the UV beam better than a bulb.

36W PAR Stage Blacklight
At 36 watts, the stage light is significantly brighter for professional or semi-professional environments. This model works well for stage productions or parties that require UV coverage over a medium area.

54W BAR Blacklight
The 54-watt BAR blacklight is designed for broader coverage. Its elongated form allows for more consistent light across a wider surface, making it ideal for stage backdrops, large rooms, and themed events.

And finally our 100W Canon Blacklight
The 100-watt Canon blacklight is the most powerful option in this lineup. It provides intense UV output suitable for large venues or concert stages. The focused design of the lens allows the blacklight to project UV light over much wider areas, maintaining brightness and clarity even in large spaces.

 

 

LINKS TO PRODUCTS:

 

100W LED COB UltraViolet Cannon UV Black Light

 

2 Pack Neon Disco Party Decorations 3.3 x 6.6 ft Fluorescent Glow In The Dark

 

9w LED Black Light Bulb A19 E26 Base

 

36x1w (36W) LED UV Blacklight PAR Stage Light

18x3W (54w) LED UV Blacklight

 

12x1w (12W) LED UV Blacklight PAR Stage Light

 

Glow in the Dark Body and Face Paint

 

Glow in the Dark Gaffer Tape for Blacklight Parties

 

12x3W (36w) LED UV Blacklight

 

LED PAR Uplights Canada RGB RGBW

Video Comparison of all the LED PAR Lights offered by Big City Lights

Posted on by Tristan

This video will go over the differences between all of Big City Lights wide range of LED PAR lights.

PAR lights (sometimes called up lights) are one of the most popular lights to use when it comes to parties and stage shows! You have probably seen these lights at least a few times when going out for an event or concert.

Here at Big City we have 6 different levels of powered parr lights, more the power or “watts”, means brighter the light.

These lights from lowest power to brightest power are: a 40 watt, 84 watt, 90 watt, a battery powered 72 watt, The Ultra 270 watt, and finally our outdoor 270 watt light.

So what else is the difference between these models? Let’s go through them all

Beginning with the 40w spotlight, it can produce most (but not all) colours with its individual Red Green Blue L.E.D. lights.

The 84 watt model, 90 watt model, and the Ultra 270 watt model, and the outdoor 270 watt model all have RGBW “four in one” LEDs. Four in one means that each LED can produce Red Green Blue and White or any combination thereof, allowing you to have a much wider range of colours, including a true white.

Finally,the wireless 72 watt model light comes with ‘six in one” LEDs. The six built in colours are Red, Green, Blue, white, amber, and UV which is also known as ultraviolet black light. This allows the widest range of colours possible.

So what are some other features?

The wireless 72 watt model is different from other models, since it runs off of it’s own built in rechargeable battery.

The outdoor 270w model has a waterproof IP65 design, so it can be reliably used indoors or outdoors!

Both the 84w model and battery operated 72w model also come with a remote control for easy operation.

All of these lights come with the ability for sound control so that your lighting can be synced to go to the music. They all also have DMX in and out meaning that you’ll be able to connect your lights to a lighting control board for bigger set ups.

Finally, all of the lights (with the exception of the 40w and the 90w models) have a power in, as well as a power out, meaning that multiple lights can be chained together for power. This is handy when you only have a limited amount of power outlets.

You can see links to all the products featured in this video below. We ship anywhere in Canada or the USA.

The 40w LED PAR

The 84w LED PAR 

The 90w LED PAR

The Ultra 270w LED PAR

Wireless Battery Operated LED PAR

The High Powered Indoor/Outdoor LED PAR

 

 

 

 

Battery Operated Lighting Options

Posted on by George Mikhaiel

Calling all filmmakers, photographers, hairstylists and party starters! Have you ever needed a wireless light to brighten a subject? To light a party? Well we have the products for you. This video showcases various options for battery operated lights to suit any of your needs. These lights are perfect for when you don’t have an outlet near by, or for on the go shootings. All the links for the battery operated lights we carry are available below.

Links:

Continue reading “Battery Operated Lighting Options” →

Top 5 Lighting Techniques

Posted on by Jane Good

One of the most important tools in staging a scene is lighting. Lighting develops the mood and setting in any production. It captures the audience and draws them into the storyline just by looking at the scene and the lighting techniques that are used.

This post will highlight the top 5 lighting techniques used in film production and their purposes for a scene.

Number 1: Soft Lighting

Soft lighting is commonly used for its aesthetically pleasing effect. It eliminates shadows and recreates subtle shades of light that has no strict definition of a light source. The purpose is to make the subject or object look less harsh. An example of this technique would be in the movie Restless (2011) where you can notice the soft light with no clear distinction between light and shadows, and has a calming effect.

Number 2: Hard Lighting

Hard lighting uses a direct beam from a light source or from the sunlight. This lighting creates shadows and harsh lines. It can also create silhouettes and highlights. An example would be in the movie The Dark Knight (2008) with the harsh tones of the subjects faces and the overlapping shadows to add to the mood of the scene and the intensity of the character.

Number 3: Ambient Lighting

Ambient lighting, also known as “practical” lighting, consists of the lights that are present and natural, so this could be sunlight, lamplight, or an overhead light. Ambient lighting can add depth and dimension to a scene if used cleverly. It can also add a sense of realism to the scene that draws the viewers attention. You need to account for ambient light, especially when shooting outside.

Number 4: Three Point Lighting

Three point lighting is a media standard form of lighting, as in it is highly used in all forms of media such as film, video, and photography. Three point lighting includes key light, fill light, and a back light.

The key light is the primary light source. It is the most intense and direct light in the scene. The key light will illuminate the form of the object or actor. Secondly, the fill light cancels out the shadows created by the ket light. It adds softness to the shadows. Lastly, the back light hits an actor or object from behind. This is used to separate the object or actor from the background.

3 point film lighting Toronto canada Scarborough tutorial

Number 5: Motivated Lighting

Motivated light seeks to imitate natural light sources, such as sunlight, moonlight, street lights, head lights and more. This technique is used to emphasize the natural lights effect to help set the story or scene. It allows the audience to believe the world that is being presented.

Lighting as a whole is complex and broad. There is so much terminology and techniques that even choosing the top most common techniques was difficult because everyone has their own interpretation. This post was a simple introductory article about the diverse world of lighting in media, specifically in film.

Finding the Perfect Light Stand for You

Posted on by George Mikhaiel

Here at Big City we have a lot of stands, all with different sizes and weights. From tall ones to short rolling ones. We have anything to fit you film or photo needs. Links to all the stands shown in this video are below.

All the stands we carry.

 

Quick and Easy Lighting – The Ring Light

Posted on by Matt Lagrosa

ring light diva stellar nova super nebula ledgo big city ringlight

 

Do you know little to nothing about lighting, and are looking for a fast and simple way to get the perfect look? If this is you, then a Ring Light may be just what you’ve been looking for. Here are a few reasons why..

 

1. ONE AND DONE

There are several different types of Ring Lights. They come in different sizes, but all the same shape. The most practical use for a Ring Light would be to light the face of a subject. Whether its for Film or for Photography, a Ring Light is easily one of the quickest and efficient ways to light a subjects face, without the use of multiple lights. This is due to the fact that a Ring Light is able to produce an incredibly uniform light, creating even shadows, and lights all sides of the subject. Just plug in, and enjoy!

Ringlight photo by Clint Adam Smyth, the master of light and lighting

2. THESE EYES 

Ring Lights have a great reputation for being able to create a beautiful eye reflecting effect. With other lights, it is often difficult to capture the detail of a subjects eyes. With the Ring Light, you are able to shoot right through the centre of it, which makes it incredibly easy to capture the detail in someones eyes.

Ringlight photo by Clint Adam Smyth, the master of light and lighting

 

3. RAISING YOUR VLOG GAME 

Due to its practicality, simplicity, and versatility, a Ring Light is the favoured lighting choice for most of the internet’s most famous vloggers and content creators. YouTubers who specialize in makeup, and beauty care will often use a Ring Light for its ability to bring out the details in the subjects face.

Ultimate Diva Ringlight Light by Big City Lights based in Toronto, Canada

 

4.  FILL’ING IT UP 

If you already have a decent lighting setup that you’re content with, adding a Ring Light to the mix will take it to the next level. The Ring Light can also be used as a fill light that can be used to cancel out unwanted shadows, and will provide a softer look.

Fluorescent Ringlight in Canada for Film and Photography. Great for Make-up!

 

5. WE GOT WHAT YOU NEED 

Ring Lights can often be difficult to come across at your ordinary retail shop, but here at Big City Lights, we offer a wide selection of Ring Lights for great prices!! You can check them out HERE, or visit us in STORE and see them for yourself!

Ray Tracing Reinvented for New Generation of Video

Posted on by Big City

August featured the reveal of Nvidia’s new line up of graphic cards. They revealed their 2000 series with large upgrades to their 1000 series previously released in 2016. In addition to faster clock speeds, GDDR6 VRAM and a larger amount of CUDA cores – Nvidia has branded their new flagship from GTX to RTX featuring the latest real time ray tracing technology.

What is ray tracing?

Ray tracing is a method of rendering which produces a realistic and completely computer generated light effect. Ray tracing is used by film makers and producers through the industry. Ray tracing combined with the vast improvements of CGI and other graphical technology will make films and other productions look fully realistic.

This video released to demo their real time ray tracing shows the impressive abilities and features that can be used in the industry.

Ray tracing technology has been around for sometime in the film industry and has been in large usage due to the large amount of CGI used in recent films. So why is ray tracing such a surprise to the industry?

How will Ray Tracing cards affect the industry?

Ray tracing in the industry has been mainly done through expensive CPUs and other large server systems. Many companies can spend hours rendering each frame using ray tracing. The addition of the market being diversified by the new tech, we can expect companies to increase productivity and have larger access to these cards. Smaller production companies can now produce CG based films and other projects much more easier than before. Many game developers and small time studios can have better results with the real time ray tracing and can push the limit of what they can do.

How will ray tracing impact the average consumer?

The addition of these new graphics cards affects mainly the industry as it allows developers and producers to utilize a strong graphics cards with real time ray tracing. If you are not into a developing or producing, the card’s strong performance will increase speeds, improve texture quality and even use ray tracing in programs or games you might use. Many game developers have already begun integrating real time ray tracing into many upcoming and trending games.

Below are examples of Battlefield V an upcoming game using real time ray tracing technology.

Should people still get the newly released cards?

The Nvidia RTX cards are the top of the class as of right now for both having real time ray tracing accessible and strong gaming potential.  Real time ray tracing is still a new technology being reinvented but gameplay and recent renders from the new RTX cards shows a lot of potential. AMD has been rumoured of making their new GPUs with ray tracing technology and NVIDIA has the trend of releasing improved cards a year later of release. If you are planning to get a ray tracing card, it would be best to wait out for AMD’s release and other potential upgrades. If you want to wait till the prices are lower, you may have to wait over 5 years for it to become the norm in graphics cards.

So when will real time ray tracing be accessible?

The RTX cards have released on September 20th of 2018 with AMD coming out with their own rumoured around 2019. The market for RTX has opened up dramatically with these releases. Don’t get your hopes up too quick. Ray tracing is still a high end technology. The RTX cards will cost between 800 CAD to 1500 CAD depending on the model. NVIDIA explained that the Star Wars render shown was run on 4 high end GPUs that costed 60,000 dollars USD. The price difference will obviously result in a downgrade in quality but given the upcoming years the prices will go down – all thanks to the start of the competitive market between AMD and Intel for both GPUs and CPUs.

 

US Prices for the RTX cards

 

What is the final verdict on the new the new ray tracing cards?

The new ray tracing cards are a sign of rising technology being more advanced and more accessible to the consumers. Many can be put away due to high prices but due to a competitive market, prices are actually decreasing. A high price results in realistic graphics and high performance in games, fast video related tasks such as rendering and the ability to use real time ray tracing technology. The new cards give us a glimpse of what to see in the future as ray tracing and even faster tech will be available for consumers and for those in the industry. The large rise in growing technologies is giving tech companies competition to see how will grow more successful.

– Benson Lam

100w LED Studio Flood Light with 18x Fresnel Spot Lens

Posted on by Ogo Eze

The 100w LED studio flood light with 18x fresnel spot lens is an effective tool in providing both film and photographic solutions. This light gives you full control over its brightness level, flood and spot focus through its digital control panel and adjustable (rotating) lens. This light also comes with a diffusion dome to produce a broader flood light effect. It is power efficient, with a power consumption rate of a 100 watt, and it emits a colour temperature of 56ook daylight. This Light can be mount on any Bowens’ mount and works with Bowen’s accessories. You also get free shipping on this item anywhere in Canada.

 

Rotating LED PAR-Kit

Posted on by Stephanie Bradshaw

The Rotating LED PAR-Kit was made to be an easy way for anyone to add interest to their party or event with a simple set up. The first items in the kit are 2 Rotating LED PARs . These small lights have an out put of 56W giving punchy colours in low light venues. Also included are a  6′ and a 25′ power cable giving more freedom with the placement of your lights, as it allows you more length to move from your power source. In addition we added a  32′ DMX cable witch will allow you to separate the lights up to 32′ apart but still have the lights in synch.  Now all of this may sound complicated or out of your skill set, but its NOT as we have made a easy do it yourself video to show you how.

With this short video we will show you step-by-step to putting together this kit so you can be confident and stress free for your event or party.

 

disco, DJ, dmx, event, lighting, lights, party, rental, rentals, stage, technology, toronto

Top 5 Event/Party Must Haves

Posted on by Stephanie Bradshaw

disco, DJ, dmx, event, lighting, lights, party, rental, rentals, stage, technology, toronto

 Creating a good event can be tricky when your unsure of whats out there. The confusing language and abundance of options can be overwhelming for anyone  not in the industry.  On top of it all trying to get the right feel or atmosphere to your venue is the most difficult but the most important part to any good event. These 5 basic must haves can open your mind to the options and will take your party, corporate gathering, or wedding, to the next level.

disco, DJ, dmx, event, lighting, lights, party, rental, rentals, stage, technology, toronto

1 – DELUXE LED PARS

There many different lighting options for any event but LED PAR‘s made my list because of its versatility.  LED PARs are a narrow, powerful light that have a wide rang of different colours. These lights are great for creating a dramatic back drop of a stage, wall, or pillar but can also be a cheep substitute for any small stage lighting. In edition to just a solid colour you can have it on auto control mode that slowly changes colours and can even have it go to the beat of the music.  This means MORE options, LESS equipment and MORE money in your pocket.

disco, DJ, dmx, event, lighting, lights, party, rental, rentals, stage, technology, toronto

2 – Wall Washers

 Similar to the LED PAR lights the wall washer has the same versatility in colour and function. Unlike the LED PARs wall washers have a longer and softer beam, mainly used for atmospheric lighting.  When trying to create a glow of colour up the wall or bar table its a great way to turn a plain dull hall or event room to the party atmosphere you want.  We rent these lights, but they are also ON SALE for a limited time for purchase.

disco, DJ, dmx, event, lighting, lights, party, rental, rentals, stage, technology, toronto

3 – G3 Wireless Lav

Lighting isn’t everything that an event needs, even if its small speeches at a wedding or a presentation, you will need a way to speak to your guests. The G3 Wireless Lav is a great and simple way to do just that. This is a small clip on wireless mic that allows you to move freely in your space and no working about cables (FREEDOM) but every event is different and have different needs. This is a good mic for any one that will be speaking for longer periods of time not so much for quick and easy exchanges from one seeker to another.  However this mic has a great sound quality and will work well for any presentation or MP at a wedding.

disco, DJ, dmx, event, lighting, lights, party, rental, rentals, stage, technology, toronto

4 – Laser Lights

There are a few different kind of lasers but the most versatile would be the High Power Animation Laser. This high powered laser has hundreds of  different preset animations making it very easy to turn on and have a lighting show –perfect for the inexperienced.Also with just a little more effort it has so many ways for you to refine the animations to get exactly what your looking for.  Your typical laser will usually only come in red and green the Animation Laser has and additional white and blue light just giving the most options as possible, making it a great entertaining peace to add to your next event.

 disco, DJ, dmx, event, lighting, lights, party, rental, rentals, stage, technology, toronto

5 – Fog Machines

Fog machines and lasers go to gather like cookies and milk, you can’t have one with out the other, so fog Machines made the list. An easy way to elevate your lasers from a simple/kinda cool basic light show to an amazing moody atmosphere and we all know that is all about the atmosphere.

If you are planning on renting one for your next event it may trigger more sensitive smoke alarms, so be sure to talk to your venue about it before hand.

If your looking for any of any of these products to rent, you can see our rental list HERE.

–Stephanie Bradshaw