For modern moving light instruments that do not use color LEDs, colors are typically changed using:
Rotating color wheels or color filters that are built into the fixture.
These fixtures have a series of colored filters or dichroic glass that can be rotated into the path of the light beam, allowing for quick and efficient color changes without the need for gels or manual installation.
To address the options you provided:
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Color chips that are installed before the lighting instrument is rented: This method is not common for typical operation but could apply if specific fixtures are pre-configured with certain colors for a production.
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Gels and gel holders that must be installed by hand: This is a traditional method for static fixtures, but in the case of moving lights, it's less practical, as these instruments are designed for quick, programmable changes.
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Specific colors of light bulbs or lamps that are installed at the theatre: While this can apply to some older fixtures, modern moving lights typically use the method mentioned above.
In summary, modern moving lights generally employ internal color-changing mechanisms, rather than manual methods like gels or specific bulbs.