Light Table Activities

A light table is useful for analyzing drawings, slides, cartoons, film and transparent images. The light table allows for better organization by enhancing the visibility of images so they may be categorized. Also, images and transparent materials may be studied and adjusted for use in design situations. The light table brings an element of flexibility and ease to any design or animation production.

Light Tables and Design

A light table is used for visual art purposes. Any form of design can be enhanced by having a light table. First, an image or design is drawn, preferably on trace paper. Subsequent layers of trace are then added to the base layer. Improvements to the design are made with each new layer. Graphic designers draw designs for logos, newsletters, brochures and fliers on paper first. The design may be studied and improved with the use of a light table. Architects may use the same process for drawings completed in the initial phase of design, when ideas take form. The front of the building, any interior wall, as well as floor plans may be designed by using layers of trace paper on the light table.

Animation

A light table is used frequently in animation. A drawing of the animation will be created, and then each new layer will be a different frame. Animation artists use scanners to scan each frame into the computer at a certain timed interval to create movement in the picture. Color is added sometimes automatically to the outlined frames with computer programs. The light table allows many frames to be viewed atop one another simultaneously. A segment of a cartoon or animation can be viewed all at once. Animators may use trace or clear plastic sheets for the frames.

Other Uses

Light tables are used to test the validity of paper currency and documents. Legal departments use them to analyze and test such materials. Scientists and doctors may use light tables to study organic matter, questionable materials, or X-ray images. It is possible to create photographic art with a light table by using transparent colored materials, as well as semi-transparent and nontransparent materials. Artists may use them to design stencils and for screen-printing designs. Particular weaves of fabric are also studied with light tables, and light tables are used in fashion design.

Film and Slides

For years, photographers used light tables to study film and slides. After the film was exposed, it was placed on a light table for the selection of quality photographs. A light table is also useful for slide photography. After slides are made, they can be arranged and selected from easily. Also, when a large quantity of slides for use in slide presentations are being arranged, a light table is of utmost value. There are still large collections of slides used by colleges, museums, libraries, as well as personal collections. The images from slides can be seen at a large scale.

Flexibility of the Creative Process

With a larger light table, it is possible to divide the space with masking tape so it may be used for multiple purposes. One area may be devoted to studying designs, another may be used for analyzing them and another area may be used for the design process. The light table enhances the flexibility of the creative process for many design, animation or photographic usages.