Image that illustrates Light shaper

Light shaper

38 100 kr

Machine operators, chemical technology and photographic products

36 000 - 39 800 kr / month

Women earn 96% of what men do.

Industriell tillverkning

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Light shaper

Average salary 38 100 kr
Males 38 500 kr
Females 36 900 kr

What does a Ljusformare do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Ljusformare works on designing and controlling lighting setups for photographic, cinematic, or stage productions. The profession involves creating visual expressions by selecting and adjusting light sources, using filters and reflective materials, and collaborating closely with photographers, directors, or set designers. The work can be performed both in studio and on location, often under time pressure and sometimes during inconvenient hours. The work environment requires both technical understanding and aesthetic sensibility, as the Ljusformare is responsible for ensuring the lighting supports the creative vision of the production.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, Ljusformare salary has shown a clear upward trend. In 2022, the average salary was 32,600 SEK per month, which increased to 33 600 SEK in 2023. The most significant increase occurred in 2024, when the average salary rose to 38 100 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 16.8% over two years. The salary growth reflects an increased demand for technical and artistic skills in lighting, especially as new production techniques and digital formats gain prominence. The overall trend indicates that the profession is valued higher, particularly for those with specialized education or experience in advanced lighting design for photography and film. However, gender pay gaps persist, with women earning slightly less on average than men.

Ljusformare Salary – Complete Overview

  • Average salary: 38 100 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 36,000 SEK/month
  • Highest salary: 39,800 SEK/month
  • Hourly wage: 229 SEK
  • Gender differences: Men earn 38,500 SEK, women 36,900 SEK (women earn 96% of what men do)
  • Regional differences: Information about regional differences is not available

Education and Qualifications

To work as a Ljusformare, a high school education in photography, media, or technology is usually required, often supplemented with post-secondary courses in light and image production. Practical experience is highly valued, and many start their careers through internships or assisting on larger productions. Skills in digital technology and lighting programming are becoming increasingly important, and opportunities for further education exist through formal courses and self-study.

  • Formal education: High school (3 years) in photography, media, or technology
  • Post-secondary courses: Specialization in light design, often shorter than 3 years
  • Internships: Strongly recommended to gain insight and network in the industry
  • Certifications: Courses in lighting programming and digital tools can be advantageous
  • Prerequisites: Technical interest, aesthetic sense, and teamwork skills

Ljusformare often work in closely-knit teams where communication and flexibility are essential. Unexpected challenges during productions require quick decisions and creative solutions, making the profession both dynamic and stimulating.

– statsskuld.se

Common Benefits and Compensation

Ljusformare are often covered by collective agreements that may include overtime pay, night allowance, and insurance. It is common to have wellness subsidies and sometimes access to technical equipment or training in new technology. For project-based employment, per diems and travel allowances may also be provided.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for jobs as a Ljusformare is relatively high, especially in larger cities and reputable production companies. Since demand varies with production seasons and technological shifts, professionals need to continuously develop their skills. Job availability is also influenced by economic conditions and investments in media production. Technological changes and digitalization require ongoing training. Establishing oneself can take time, and many start in freelance or project-based roles before securing permanent positions.

Tips for Aspiring Ljusformare

To succeed as a Ljusformare, it is good to combine technical curiosity with creativity and teamwork. Gaining practical experience through internships or part-time jobs provides valuable insights and contacts, while meticulousness and a sense for detail help create the right lighting atmosphere. Flexibility is important, as workdays can vary and unexpected challenges are common. Developing skills in digital lighting tools and image editing gives an advantage in the job market. Patience and good communication facilitate collaboration with creative teams, and staying updated on new technologies makes you more attractive to employers.

Key Facts about Ljusformare

  • Education level: High school with supplementary courses
  • Work environment: Studio, on-location, or stage with varying hours
  • Typical employment: Project-based or freelance
  • Demand: 1,437 available jobs according to latest data
  • Special skills: Light design, digital lighting programming, and technical problem-solving

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years in the profession, a Ljusformare can advance to roles such as lead lighting designer, technical project manager, or specialized consultant in larger productions. Opportunities for teaching or development work within lighting technology are also available. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, there is no specific assessment for Ljusformare, but the profession has a large number of available jobs, indicating good prospects for establishment. Future outlooks depend on technological development and investments in the media and entertainment industry, with increasing demand for expertise in digital lighting programming. Continuous further training is essential for long-term career development.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ljusformare

  • What is the average salary for a Ljusformare?
    - The average salary for a Ljusformare is 38 100 SEK per month.
  • What is the highest salary for a Ljusformare?
    - The highest salary is 39,800 SEK and belongs to a privately employed man with post-secondary education.
  • How does the salary differ between men and women?
    - Women earn an average of 36,900 SEK, which is 96% of men's salaries.
  • What education is required to become a Ljusformare?
    - High school education in photography/media/technology, supplemented with courses in light design, is recommended.
  • Are there many job opportunities for Ljusformare?
    - Yes, there are 1,437 available jobs according to the latest statistics.
  • What is the work environment like for Ljusformare?
    - The work environment is varied and can involve work in studios, on location, and during inconvenient hours.
  • What personal qualities are important for the profession?
    - Technical skills, creativity, teamwork ability, and flexibility are especially important.

Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Light shaper is 39800 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed officials with a post-secondary education, less than 3 years. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 36900 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Light shaper is 36000 kr. This salary belongs to a woman also working in the Multiple sectors. The lowest salary for a man in this profession is 38500 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
25-34 33300 kr 37300 kr
35-44 35000 kr 39100 kr
45-54 35400 kr 39200 kr
55-64 34800 kr 38900 kr
Snitt 96% 34200 kr 38100 kr
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Light shaper has the SSYK code 8132, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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