Some people find their way into live production through music. Others start with lighting or technology. For Brian Johnson, it began by simply seeing lasers at events and wanting to know more.
Splitting his time between Iowa and Illinois, Brian has been involved with lasers since 2012. Since then, the work has introduced him to people across the country and taken him into all kinds of productions. Yet, his approach remains refreshingly simple: stay safe, enjoy the work, and never assume you know everything.
Take Us Back to the Beginning. What Drew You Into Lasers?
“I have been involved in lasers since 2012. When attending events, laser always mesmerized me and I was naturally drawn to it. “
That curiosity turned into something much bigger. More than a decade later, he’s experienced a side of events most people in the audience never get to see.
Looking Back, What Makes You Most Proud?
“Over the years, I have been able to meet many acts, artists, and folks behind the scenes from all over the country. That has been amazing. “
And really, that’s one of the coolest things about this business. The equipment may bring you to the job, but the people can make the experience.
When It’s Show Time, What Matters Most?
“Safety is always first, 100%. Second to that is HAVING FUN! Not just me, but those around me. Regardless if I am on a massive mission critical event or a smaller intimate event, I don’t want myself or anyone else to stress. Events always go better when the stress has been eliminated or at least mitigated. “
Safety and fun might sound like two very different priorities. For Brian, they belong together. Do the job responsibly. Keep a level head. Then, make sure the crew actually enjoys being there.
That mindset works whether the production is huge or much more intimate.
What Would You Tell Someone Just Entering the Industry?
“Don’t give up and continue to learn! It’s easy to get lost in the deep ocean of all the technicals of the software hardware and industry. It’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon. Always remain a student willing to learn because no one can know it all! “
There’s no shortcut hidden in that answer. Instead, it’s about giving yourself time to grow.
And maybe that’s what makes the advice worth remembering.
So, What’s Been Keeping You Busy Lately?
” I was granted the opportunity to do lasers for mainstage at a first year festival called Bass Journeys in south eastern Iowa a few months ago which was very fun. And just this week, Laser Light Company gave me the huge honor of helping design, operate, and tech a photoshoot for the Northwestern Wildcats. Very excited to see the finished product for that material! “
That’s quite a change of scenery. One project puts lasers on a festival mainstage. The next brings them into a creative photoshoot for the Northwestern Wildcats.
And perhaps that variety is part of what keeps this industry interesting.
Brian may have started out mesmerized by lasers from the audience. These days, he gets to help create the moments that might inspire the next person watching from the other side.
