Lightwright is a powerful lighting design and paperwork management software used by professionals in the entertainment industry. It allows users to create and organize lighting plots, create reports, and collaborate with other designers and technicians. However, this software can be expensive, especially for those who are just starting in their careers. In this article, we will discuss how to get Lightwright for cheap without sacrificing its features and functionality.
1. Consider Renting Instead of Buying
One way to get Lightwright for cheap is by renting it instead of buying. This is a great option for those who only need the software for a specific project or just want to try it out before committing to purchasing it. Companies like Light Converse offer rental options for Lightwright, starting at $50 for a month’s use. This is significantly cheaper than buying the software, which costs around $600.
2. Get a Student or Educator Discount
If you are a student or an educator, you may be eligible for a discount on Lightwright. The company offers special pricing for those who can prove their student or educator status, with discounts ranging from 20% to 30% off the regular price. This is a great option for those who are currently studying or teaching in the field of entertainment lighting.
3. Purchase a Used License
If you are unable to get a discount or do not want to rent the software, you can purchase a used license of Lightwright from a previous user. Many designers and technicians upgrade to newer versions or switch to different software, making their old licenses available for sale. You can find these on forums, online marketplaces, or even through networking within the industry. Just make sure to do your research and only purchase from a reputable source to avoid any potential issues.
4. Take Advantage of Group Purchases
Another way to get Lightwright for cheap is by joining group purchases or bulk orders. This is a common practice in the entertainment industry, where professionals in the same field come together to purchase equipment and software at a discounted price. You can network with your colleagues or join online groups to find out if there are any group purchases for Lightwright happening in your area.
5. Use Lightwright 4 Instead of the Latest Version
Lightwright 5 is the latest version of the software, but it comes with a hefty price tag. If you do not need all of the new features and updates, consider using Lightwright 4 instead. It is still a powerful tool and can be purchased for a fraction of the cost of the latest version. You can also upgrade to Lightwright 5 in the future when it is more financially feasible for you.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between Lightwright 4 and Lightwright 5?
Lightwright 5 has additional features and updates, such as the ability to export paperwork to PDF, support for vectorworks files, and improved color-coding options. However, Lightwright 4 still has all the essential functionalities and can be a more cost-effective option.
2. Can I try Lightwright before purchasing it?
Yes, Lightwright offers a free trial that you can download from their website. This will give you the opportunity to try out the software and see if it meets your needs before committing to purchasing it.
3. Does Lightwright have a mobile app?
No, Lightwright is currently only available for desktop computers and is not compatible with mobile devices.
4. Are there any alternative software to Lightwright?
Yes, there are other lighting design software available in the market, such as Vectorworks Spotlight and LightConverse. However, Lightwright is a popular and trusted choice among industry professionals.
5. Can I purchase Lightwright outside of the United States?
Yes, Lightwright is available for purchase outside of the United States. You can check their website for a list of authorized resellers in your country.
In conclusion, Lightwright is a powerful and valuable tool for those in the entertainment industry, but it can be expensive. By considering some of the options mentioned in this article, you can get Lightwright for cheap without compromising its features and functionality. Remember to only purchase from reputable sources and always do your research. Happy designing!