Understanding Vectorworks Vision
Vectorworks Vision is a powerful tool designed for professionals in the entertainment industry, particularly in theatre, live events, and broadcast. It allows users to visualize, pre-program, and cue lights and other design elements in a virtual space. By integrating seamlessly with Vectorworks Spotlight, Vision helps streamline workflow by bringing together drafting and previsualization capabilities.
Setting Up Vectorworks Vision
Obtain a License: Before using Vision, ensure you have the appropriate licensing. For those enrolled in Vectorworks Service Select, a complimentary license of Vision is available for each Spotlight or Designer license you own.
Download the Software:
- For members of Vectorworks Service Select, log into the Vectorworks website.
- Navigate to the ‘Downloads’ section and select ‘Current Vectorworks Release’ to download Vision.
- If you lack a Service Select membership, reach out to Vectorworks support to receive your serial number and download instructions.
Installation: After downloading, run the installation file. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. After installation, launch the program to start using it.
- Connect with Vectorworks Spotlight: For optimal use, ensure you have Vectorworks Spotlight installed. This allows for easy transfer of design documents and fixture information to Vision.
Using Vectorworks Vision
Import Your Design: Start by importing your design from Vectorworks Spotlight into Vision. This process generally involves selecting the fixtures and models within your Spotlight file and sending them to Vision.
- Open your Spotlight project.
- Navigate to the ‘Export’ option and choose to export to Vision format.
Visualize in 3D: Use the 3D rendering capabilities to visualize your lighting design. Adjust the camera angles and view settings to get a comprehensive look at how the lighting will interact with the environment.
Programming Your Show:
- Once your design is imported and visualized, proceed to program your cues.
- Utilize the control panels available in Vision to set up lighting cues, transitions, and effects.
- Test the setup using the virtual interface to ensure everything works as planned.
Previsualization: Take advantage of previsualization tools to simulate the lighting design in real-time. Adjust any elements as needed based on how the cues operate in the virtual space.
- Finalizing Your Project: Once satisfied with the programming and visualization:
- Export your cue list and other essential data back to Vectorworks for documentation.
- Prepare for the live event by ensuring all equipment is set up as per the designed specifications.
Tips for Optimizing Your Experience with Vision
- Learn the Basics: Familiarize yourself with the user interface and basic functions of Vectorworks Vision. Consider utilizing online tutorials and resources for a smoother learning curve.
- Stay Updated: Regularly check for software updates to access new features and improvements.
- Utilize All Features: Explore all the features available in Vision, such as various fixtures and effects, to enhance your design.
- Practice: Like any complex software, practice is essential to mastering Vision. Work on small projects to build your confidence and skill set.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between Vectorworks Vision and Vectorworks Spotlight?
Vectorworks Vision is primarily focused on previsualization and programming of lighting fixtures, while Vectorworks Spotlight is more about drafting and creating design documents. They complement each other in the overall design workflow.
2. Can I use Vision without a Vectorworks license?
No, Vision requires a legal license to function properly. It is part of the Vectorworks ecosystem and designed to work in tandem with Spotlight.
3. Is there a learning curve for using Vectorworks Vision?
Yes, like most advanced software, there is a learning curve. However, ample resources, including tutorials and user forums, are available to assist users in becoming proficient with the program.
