A light source (10) includes a light emitting component (32), such as a
UV/blue light emitting diode or laser diode coated with a layer (60) of a
phosphor material (64). The phosphor material converts a portion of the
light emitted by the light emitting component to light of a longer
wavelength, such as yellow light. The thickness d of the layer varies
across the light emitting component in relation to the intensity of light
emitted by the light emitting component. This maintains a uniform color of
the emission from the light source while minimizing the loss in light
intensity (brightness) due to the presence of the phosphor.