Working with Multiple Sequences in Blackout Lighting Console
Overview
Sequences in Blackout function as layers, similar to layers in Photoshop or other visual applications. A sequence is a container for looks that allows you to isolate and control different lighting elements independently. This guide covers creating multiple sequences, managing them effectively, and handling real-world scenarios like equipment moves and failures.
Understanding Sequences vs. Looks
What is a Look?
A way to save lighting values (intensity, color, effects, etc.)
Can save all values, selected fixture values, or manual values only
Individual lighting states within a sequence
What is a Sequence?
A container for one or multiple looks
Functions as a separate layer for organizational control
Automatically gets assigned to a fader
Allows independent control of different lighting areas
Why Use Multiple Sequences?
Think of sequences as layers that let you:
Isolate different sets or areas -EXAMPLE: Keep green screen, bedroom, and car process lighting separate
Maintain organization - Each sequence controls specific fixtures without interference
Enable independent control - Adjust one area without affecting others
Prevent conflicts - Avoid fixtures being controlled by multiple sequences simultaneously
Creating Your First Sequence
Recording a Basic Look
Set up your lighting values
Select your fixtures (e.g., green screen lights)
Set intensity:
@30(sets to 30%)Adjust other parameters as needed
Record the look
Hit the Record button
Navigate to the Looks tab
Choose your recording options (record filters):
Manual Values Only: Records only changed values (recommended if using multiple sequences)
Selection Only: Records only selected fixtures
Neither button selected: Records entire board state
NOTE: If you plan on using multiple sequences, you should record your first sequences as manual values only and/or selection only. That way you don't save the all your fixtures into that look. You may hear this referred to as "Filtering".
If you don't plan on using multiple sequences then you can record without filtering.
Save your look
Name your look (e.g., "Green Screen")
Save to Sequence 1 (Main Sequence)
Creating Additional Sequences
Set up lighting for a new area
Set levels on your fixtures for the second area (e.g., bedroom set)
Set manual values for intensity, color temperature, etc.
Record to a new sequence
Hit Record
Change the sequence number to 2
Can be any number as long as their isn't already a sequence created with that same number
Name your look (e.g., "Bedroom")
Select Manual Values Only
Save
Verify sequence creation
Check the Faders page - you'll see a new fader for Sequence 2
Each sequence gets its own fader automatically
Take away: Creating a separate sequence is as easy as changing the sequence number in your Record Look window
Managing Sequence Content
Adding Multiple Looks to a Sequence
You can have multiple looks within a single sequence for different lighting states:
Create a base look (e.g., "Bedroom Base")
Create variations (e.g., "Bathroom Light On")
Make your lighting changes
Record to the same sequence with a new look number
Use Manual Values Only to track changes efficiently
Updating Existing Looks
Instead of recording new looks, you can update existing ones:
Make your lighting changes
Hit Update instead of Record
Choose update scope:
Current Look Only
Next Look or All Following
Previous Look or All Previous
Moving Fixtures Between Sets
When fixtures get moved from one set to another:
Remove fixture from original sequence
Select the fixture (e.g., Sky Panel 607)
Go to Looks tab, select the original sequence
Hit Update → Selection Only → Remove
This removes the fixture entirely from that sequence
Add fixture to new sequence
Set the fixture's new values
Navigate to the target sequence in Looks
Update with Manual Values Only
Choose appropriate scope (current look, all following, etc.)
Handling Effects and Groups
When moving fixtures that are part of effects:
Update the effect
Create a new selection that just contains the fixtures you want to keep
Hit Update
Go to the Effect tab in the update menu
Select the Effect you want to change from the drop down
Remove Effects from Looks
Be in the look that you want to update (Make sure you're in the right sequence)
Turn off the effect in the Effect Side Bar ( ⏹️ )
Update → Include Effects → Enter
Replacing Fixtures
Example: Your Titan Tube's battery has died
Copy settings from failed fixture
Select the failed fixture
Use Copy To function
Select the replacement fixture
Hit Enter to copy all values
Update the sequence
Navigate to the appropriate sequence
Update with Manual Values Only
Select appropriate scope (all following/previous)
Remove the failed fixture (optional)
Select failed fixture
Update → Selection Only → Remove
Best Practices
Organization Tips
Use descriptive names for sequences and looks
Keep sequences focused on specific areas or functions
Use color coding in your fixture labels to match sequences
Recording Strategy
Start with "Manual Values Only" for most recording
Avoid recording full board state unless you won't be using multiple sequences
Think about sequence scope before recording - which looks need this change?
Workflow Efficiency
Record effects from groups for easier editing later
Plan your sequence structure before starting programming
Use the layer concept - keep different areas truly separate
Sequence and Fader Relationship
Important Notes:
Every sequence automatically gets a fader
Sequences and faders are permanently linked
Deleting a fader (press and hold, then clear) deletes the entire sequence
You cannot have a sequence without a fader
Troubleshooting
Color Indicators
Red numbers: Manual values (changed but not saved)
Yellow numbers: Controlled by a fader you don't have selected
White numbers: Saved values from current look
Common Issues
Fixture responding to wrong sequence: Check if fixture exists in multiple sequences
Changes not saving: Ensure you're in the correct sequence when updating
Changes not saving/updating/playing back: Go to your fader page and make sure the sequence fader is at 100
Multiple sequences provide powerful organizational and control capabilities in Blackout. By treating sequences as layers and following proper workflow practices, you can maintain clean, efficient lighting programming even in complex multi-set environments. The key is planning your sequence structure and consistently using appropriate recording methods to keep your layers separate and functional.