Not all laser shows are created equal. Two quotes for a “laser light show” can describe very different things, from a single small projector to a full production with sound, lighting and a trained crew. These questions to ask a laser show company will help you compare vendors fairly and avoid surprises on event night.
Safety and compliance
1. Do you hold a current FDA laser light show variance?
Professional shows using high-powered lasers generally need a variance from the FDA. Ask whether the company holds one and whether it covers the equipment and type of show they’re proposing. Our outdoor laser show rules guide explains why this matters.
2. Will you file the FAA notice for an outdoor show, and when?
Outdoor shows projected into the sky require advance notice to the FAA, with at least 30 days recommended. A professional company handles this as part of the job.
3. Can you provide a certificate of insurance?
Most venues, cities and parks require one. Ask early so there’s time to add the venue as additional insured if needed.
4. Who operates the show, and what’s their experience?
Every show should have a trained operator on site with an emergency stop. Ask who that person will be.
The show itself
5. What exactly is included?
How many projectors, and how powerful? Are haze machines included? What about sound, stage lighting, a DJ or MC, video screens and staging? Get the list in writing so you can compare quotes properly.
6. How long is the show, and can it run more than once?
Some events want a single 10-minute moment. Others want shows every hour. Ask how pricing changes with length and repeats.
7. Is the show custom-programmed or pre-built?
Pre-built shows can be excellent and affordable. Custom programming to your music, colors or tree lighting costs more but feels made for your event. Ask what’s possible within your budget. Our explainer on how laser light shows work covers how shows are programmed.
8. Can we see video of a past show?
Video tells you more than any description. Ask for footage from an event similar to yours, outdoor or indoor, at a similar size.
Logistics
9. Will you do a site visit?
A good vendor wants to see the venue, ideally after dark, to check power, sightlines, projector placement and nearby light sources.
10. What do you need from us on site?
Power, space for equipment, a secured area, load-in access, parking for trucks and setup time. Knowing this early prevents last-minute problems.
11. What’s your weather plan?
What happens with wind, rain or lightning? Who makes the call, and when? Is there a fee to move to a backup date? Our South Florida holiday weather guide explains the risks.
The contract
12. What are the deposit, payment and cancellation terms?
Ask about the deposit, when the balance is due, and what happens if the event is canceled by you, by weather, or by a permit decision. Get it in writing.
A quick comparison checklist
- FDA variance confirmed
- FAA notice included for outdoor shows
- Insurance certificate available
- Equipment list in writing
- Sound, lighting and DJ included or separate
- Site visit scheduled
- Weather and cancellation policy in writing
- Video of past shows reviewed
Ask us anything
We’re happy to answer every question on this list. Tell us about your event, read about our 2020 season, or see the Electric Holiday show.