WHO WE ARE
Luminous is one of the leading manufacturers of special effects hardware for the entertainment industry. We engineer and produce a diverse range of SFX equipment, including fire, water, and smoke effects. We specialise in delivering innovative SFX solutions for live events, installations, and themed entertainment. From intimate installations to large-scale productions, we ensure that our global clientele can create unforgettable experiences for their audiences.
OUR STORY
Luminous Show Technology was founded in 2017 with the aim of serving the industry with advanced SFX hardware.
Since then, Luminous has established itself within the SFX industry, with our equipment featured in major events around the world. In 2024, we were honoured with the King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade, recognising our global impact. In 2026, we received a second King’s Award for Enterprise, this time in Innovation, celebrating our advances in engineering.
A Look Back Through The Years
Come with us on a trip down memory lane as we revisit the moments that shaped Luminous from our early beginnings in 2017 through to today.
2017: The Beginning Of The Magic
Our story began with a little bit of magic (quite literally!). In our very first year, we provided SFX for Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, a project we still provide support and maintenance for today.
2018: Turning Up The Heat
This year saw us branching out in exciting new directions. Designing effects for Ozzy Osbourne at Download Festival and The Phantom of the Opera theatre tour, while also launching out very own range of flame effects!
2019: New Partnerships
We levelled up with a new 8,500 sqft HQ in Exeter, and began an exciting collaboration with MagicFX, co-developing and manufacturing their flame systems.
2020: Rising to The Challenge
With shows on hold during COVID-19, we turned our skills to the frontline. Luminous made hand sanitisers and face shields to support the NHS and key venues during a challenging year.
2021: Let It Rain
2021 was all about innovation. We launched HYDRA-TECH Digital Rain Curtain which went on to dazzle audiences alongside top artists like Adele, Sabrina Carpenter, Charli XCX and Jelly Roll.
2022: Pushing Creative Boundaries
From securing the Innovate UK Smart Grant for FXMotion, to recreating the Birmingham canal for the Commonwealth Games, 2022 was all about taking creativity to new heights.
2023: Taking Effects Further
We launched SMOKE-TECH Cryo Curtain, adding another show-stopping product to our line-up. FXMotion also earned recognition at the Blooloop Innovation Awards!
2024: A Year To Remember
2024 was a landmark year for Luminous. We were honoured with the King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade, and we also launched our Gas and Fuel Management service, expanding the ways we support productions.
2025: Our Biggest Year Yet
This year saw the debut of SHOCK-WAVE Water Cannon and HYDRA-STORM Rain Machine, thrilling audiences around the world. To top it all off, we had the privilege of welcoming Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal to our facilities for a very special visit!
OUR BACKGROUND
Co-founder Edwin Samkin has worked with explosives and special effects systems within the entertainment industry since 1996. He has played a key part at some of the largest global events, in roles ranging from Production Manager to Special Effects designer. Notable projects include London 2012, Sochi 2014, and Rio 2016 Olympic ceremonies. Ed bridges the technical and creative disciplines, providing clients with a technical SFX response whilst interpreting the creative vision.
Co-founder Mike Badley has worked in high-end special effects since 1999, working extensively in movie production and large-scale live performance. Mike has worked both on set and in a consultative role for major titles and tours including Inception, Quantum of Solace, and The Dark Knight. Mike is qualified to UCPD European Machinery Safety Requirements (2016) and Practical Application of Functional Safety for Machinery (2014).
Our Services
Luminous are SFX experts and with over 20 years of experience in the industry. We have a solid team of in-house engineers, coordinators and technicians to ensure we have the capacity to deliver extraordinary results for every project we’re a part of.
THE WORKSHOP
All of our products are made in Britain. In the heart of the South West of England, our facilities house state-of-the-art equipment to sustain our product innovation. We complete full fabrication, from design to assembly, guided by our skilled mechanical and electronic engineers who ensure our quality at every stage.
INNOVATION
- 3D CAD
- Finite Element Analysis
- Pre-visualisation
- Computational Fluid Dynamics
ELECTRICAL DESIGN
- Design & Testing
- PCB Manufacture
- PAT Testing
- Embedded Software Design
FABRICATION
- 3m x 2m Laser Cutter
- 2m Press Brake
- MIG & TIG Welding
- Lather & Milling Machines
- OEM Assembly
QUALITY ASSURANCE
- Powder Coating
- Wet Spraying
- Sand Blasting
- Product Testing Suite
- Factory Acceptance Testing