Lighting design has grown tremendously over the last decade. While architecture has long had its own associations, lighting design has only recently started to gain more presence worldwide. Historically, lighting was often seen as part of architecture or handled by electricians, but today, lighting designers are forming their own vibrant networks. I want to share some of the most active and inspiring lighting associations and communities where you can connect, learn, and grow as a lighting professional.
1) VLDC – Virtual Lighting Design Community
One of my personal favorites is the Virtual Lighting Design Community (VLDC). Founded by an Australian studio, this international group is incredibly active and welcoming. VLDC offers free content like videos where experts share strategies, discuss AI’s role in lighting, and cover the basics of light design. Their presence spans Asia, Europe, and beyond. This year, they even presented at Light + Building in Frankfurt, Germany. What I appreciate most is how the core team genuinely collaborates to bring professionals together in a supportive environment. You can explore their work at
2) Dialux Community
If you use Dialux software, the Dialux Community is a great place to connect with fellow users. It’s a program-focused space where you can share projects, give feedback, and see what others are working on. It’s free and a good way to stay engaged with the tools we rely on:
3) TLP – The Lighting Police
For a serious but engaging topic, check out The Lighting Police. Born in London in 2020, this initiative shines a spotlight on poor lighting in public spaces — think of it as a fun way to raise awareness about safety and light pollution. You can even submit photos of bad lighting you encounter. Membership requires an application, but their campaigns are important, impactful, and entertaining:
https://thelightingpolice.org/get-involved/
4) WIL – Women in Lighting
In a field still largely male-dominated, Women in Lighting stands out as a powerful community supporting women lighting designers worldwide. From stage and architectural to creative lighting, this network connects strong, inspiring women in the industry. Portugal is proud to have an ambassador, Paula Rainha from Studio Filamento. Discover more at
Here are a few more associations worth knowing:
- American Lighting Association supports lighting professionals with resources and networking: www.alalighting.com
- LUCI Association focuses on urban lighting and sustainable city projects: www.luciassociation.org
- IES (Illuminating Engineering Society), founded in 1906, is a leading nonprofit advancing lighting science and standards: https://ies.org/
- IALD (International Association of Lighting Designers), established in 1969, is one of the oldest and most respected lighting design organizations, known for its prestigious awards: https://iald.org/IALD/
- licht.de is a primarily German-language platform offering a wealth of freely available information on lighting technology, trends, and standards: https://www.licht.de/
Each community has its unique flavor and focus, so whether you’re looking for technical support, creative inspiration, or advocacy, there’s a place for you to join and thrive in the world of lighting design.
Do you know of any other important communities? Maybe even some in Portugal? Talvez até mesmo algumas em Portugal?
