Abstract: A system for positioning a spray apparatus relative to a surface, in which the spray apparatus directs a liquid coating such as paint toward the surface for applying the liquid to the surface in a spray pattern. A light beam emitter is interconnected with the spray apparatus, and emits a light beam in a predetermined orientation relative to the spray pattern such that the light beam strikes the surface in a center defined by the spray pattern when the spray apparatus is positioned a predetermined distance from the surface. The light beam is oriented such that the distance of the spray apparatus corresponds to a distance providing optimal application of the coating to the surface, to minimize waste and overspray. The light beam emitter may be engaged with the spray apparatus by a releasable mounting arrangement, such that the light beam emitter can be selectively mounted to the spray apparatus. The light beam is emitted from a light beam emitter housing, such as a laser generator.