Halogen lighting adds focus and definition to many trade show displays, and it counters the effects of inadequate ambient lighting. The ambient lighting of many trade show venues washes out displays by being too bright or does not provide enough definition for a display by being too dim.

Experts in the trade show lighting field suggest you contact the trade show organizers and hosts before any trade show in order to discover what types of ambient lighting will be provided. Photographs of previous events can also give you a good idea of the atmosphere. Then, after reviewing your display needs, consider your lighting options.

The correct combination of lighting provides texture, form and color. Halogen lighting in particular is often used for small spaces and as focused lighting. As you consider exhibit halogen lights, keep in mind the following:

1. Halogen lighting provides a clear white light and adds color retention.
2. Halogen lighting can add illumination to small areas and artwork.
3. Halogen lighting can be dimmed to the amount of brightness you need.
4. Halogen lighting may also be too bright for some purposes.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Purchase halogen track lighting for focus and definition

Halogen track lighting allows you to provide overall, overlapping light, while also focusing light on specific areas. Halogen lights can be easily moved along the tracks as you arrange your display. Halogen track lighting can offer you the flexibility you need.

I recommend: Pegasus Associates Lighting sells a variety of halogen track lighting supplies, including fixtures, holders, lenses, louvers and filters for creating color and depth. Trade Show Shop sells trade show track lighting, including halogen track lighting.

Buy exhibit halogen lights for small spaces

Exhibit halogen lights focus the viewer's attention on specific products or areas of a display.

I recommend: Whiteboards and More sells a Testrite exhibition halogen light. Tradeshowdirect sells its most popular exhibit halogen light, the Light Craft SL-2000, as well as other models.

Buy spare halogen bulbs for replacing halogen show lights

Halogen bulbs tend to last longer than traditional bulbs. Still, having extras on hand means you won't worry about your halogen show lights burning out while you are at a trade show.

I recommend: For a wide selection of halogen bulbs, try bulbs.com or 1000bulbs.com.

Hire a professional to help with your trade show halogen light or conference needs

Deciding upon your own trade show halogen lighting and other lighting needs is not always easy. Hiring a professional for large conferences or events removes the guesswork.

I recommend: If interested in halogen conference lighting and other conference lighting, Premier Lighting & Production Company sells and rents lights for special events. Tomorrow's Event Productions specializes in spectacular light displays.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Before buying halogen lighting for conferences and events, check with the event host or organizer to see if there are regulations regarding the lights you may want to bring.
• •  If you want to create a space with as much light as possible, walk-in booths can provide the atmosphere you want. Check fire and safety regulations of each venue you will be visiting, however, before purchasing any trade show halogen light and setting it up.