The set may be lit two-dimensionally with front floodlights. This involves organizing the visual elements of design into a unified form or arrangement of forms. Lighting is the final unifying force of the stage composition together with set design, costumes, and make-up. The intensity, colour, and distribution of light create compositions of light, shade, and colour over the setting and around the actors. It is the lighting designer's duty never to achieve an attractive visual picture at the expense of visibility.
Lighting design is visual design in space and time.
Through the use of special lighting effects, light can also be used as scenery. Mood Light has an undeniably powerful effect on our state of mind and on our emotions. By using intensity, colour, distribution, and movement, the designer can exploit the emotional and psychological effects inherent in light and thereby increase dramatic effect. The director is the overall leader of the production team and it is his or her vision that determines the overall artistic effect of a production. The lighting designer should be in on early discussions with the director and other department heads and must have read the script at least twice.