Breaking Barriers: Elissa Lynn-Coulter’s Journey as Hollywood’s First Female Set Lighting Technician

Episode Description:
In this episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Elissa Lynn-Coulter, a trailblazer in the motion picture industry and the owner of The Lamp Lady. Elissa shares her incredible journey of becoming the first female set lighting technician in a union in Hollywood, overcoming obstacles, and paving the way for other women in the field. She reflects on her early experiences working in her father’s lighting store, the challenges she faced breaking into a male-dominated industry, and her passion for lighting, which has guided her throughout her career. Now, as the beloved “Lamp Lady” in Williamsburg, Virginia, Elissa continues to shine a light on the importance of passion, perseverance, and service to others.

Key Discussion Points:

[00:01:30] Elissa’s early exposure to lighting through her father’s business and her love for the craft
[00:05:45] Breaking into Hollywood as the first female set lighting technician in a union
[00:12:00] Overcoming gender barriers and earning respect on set
[00:20:15] The importance of mentorship and support from industry professionals
[00:28:50] Elissa’s proudest milestones, including becoming a chief lighting technician (Gaffer)
[00:35:30] Transitioning to a new passion: becoming “The Lamp Lady” and her thriving business
[00:42:10] Advice for young women looking to break into male-dominated fields

Notable Quotes:

“If it’s meant to be, it’s up to me. I never let anything stop me from achieving what I set out to do.”
“Without lights, you really don’t have much to photograph. Lighting creates the atmosphere and brings scenes to life.”
“When you chase a passion over a check, it makes a big difference—not just now, but for later on in your life.”

Takeaways:

Never underestimate the power of perseverance and self-belief, especially when facing industry barriers.
Seek mentorship and build supportive relationships to succeed in male-dominated fields.
Passion is key—when you love what you do, your work becomes more than just a job.
Keep learning and improving, and never be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

Connect with Elissa Lynn-Coulter:

Email: [email protected]

Next Episode Teaser:
Join us next week for another inspiring story from a woman who dared to dream big and broke barriers to achieve her goals. Remember, the world always makes way for the dreamer.

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