A method for machining a holding device for a light module of a lighting device of a motor vehicle. An SMD semiconductor light source component arranged on the holding device is operated for light generation. An emission characteristic of a light-emitting surface of the SMD semiconductor light source component is determined. A mechanical feature with regard to the holding device is specified depending upon the emission characteristic. An optical element which co-operates optically with the SMD semiconductor light source component is specified depending upon the mechanical feature with regard to the SMD semiconductor light source component.