I will answer both questions, from a relative newcomer to concert lighting. I got into it after around 10 years as an audio guy, both live and live recording. Buying audio gear was expensive, never ending, and absolutely no
ROI. I was also getting tired of dealing with musicians, lifting 100+ lb speakers, and dealing with musicians (worth mentioning twice since I was primarily a
monitor engineer). I bought some
truss because my friend wanted me to go in on it with him, then I bought a pair of Mac300's because I found an amazing deal on them. They paid for themselves in about 6 shows and I could do cool things with them, which inspired and invigorated me (something I desparately needed in this industry). I partnered with a sound company who had clients looking for lighting and now we're doing pretty good size gigs and I'm actually making money now. I really just started and am learning as I go, but I'm actually having fun doing it. Which brings me to the next question:
Why do I make the creative decisions that I do? Well, for me it starts with asking myself what gear do I have and can I sell that to the client. I have been lucky in that I am usually spec'ing the gear for most shows, so I can make sure it's the gear I own and not have to rent. Buying the gear is determined by how I plan on using it and making the most out of it. Whatever I buy has to be versatile enough to be used in several scenarios and work together with the equipment that I already own. So, beyond the gear itself and actually putting it to use... I am completely self-taught (and I'm a very inexperienced teacher) so I honestly don't have a clue what I'm doing. It always starts with visualizing what I want the end product to be then making that happen. The steps between sometimes are trial and error, sometimes help and ideas from friends, and sometimes just luck. Some things I have learned recently: Spandex shapes and
LED's are an amazing combination. People like moving and blinking. Time to buy more Mac250's.