How to make a light painting
Story Highlights
Introduction A light painting is the result of setting your camera to a very slow shutter speed and
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Introduction
A light painting is the result of setting your camera to a very slow shutter speed and then waving around a small light source in front of the camera in total darkness. The effects of doing this will cause the small light source show up as a surreal trail of lights across your photograph. Follow these steps to start your experimenting.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderate
Things You'll Need
- Camera with adjustable shutter speed
- Tripod
- Shutter release cable
- Flashlight or other hand-held light source
- Completely darkened room
Steps
1
Step One
Start by finding a medium size spare room or bathroom that you can make completely dark. A bathroom without windows is easiest to work with.
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Step Four
Aim the camera at an empty part of the room where you will be standing with the flashlight.
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Step Five
Set your shutter speed to the "B" setting. This will allow you to keep the shutter open for as long as you keep the button pressed down.
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Step Seven
Now turn out the lights in the room making sure its completely dark.
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Step Eight
Press and hold your shutter release cable button, and lock the button down if your cable has this feature.
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Step Nine
Step into the area your camera is aimed at and turn on your flashlight. Wave around your flash light at the camera, at yourself, around the room. Wherever the light travels, a streak will appear in the photo.
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Step Ten
After about 20 seconds of painting with your light you may release the cable's button and close the shutter.
Overall Tips & Warnings
- Try using a film with ISO rating of 100 or 200. These slow film speeds will work better for the prolonged exposure in the dark.
- Be creative. You can try to wave the light in a pattern (like the star pattern above), draw a face, sign your name, etc.
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