The word “photography” was derived from the Greek roots “phōtos” and “graphé” and literally translates to “painting or drawing with light”. Painting with light is done at night due to the long exposures necessary to capture trails of moving lights. A camera is mounted onto a tripod in order to eliminate camera shake, a very slow shutter speed is used and a small light source like a flashlight is used to draw images and lines onto a dark scene. The results can be both breathtaking and eery.
Here are a few different techniques you can try with light painting:
1) Trace an object. Use a flashlight and trace around an object in order to illuminate the item and give it a glow. Using a sparkler like in the example below is a creative way to give your light path more texture. Also pick items that have great form to begin with to ensure your outline is an interesting shape.
Photo by Sssampo, http://cassiecoffeebean.blogspot.ca/2010/11/examples-of-painting-with-light.html
2) Draw a scene from scratch. Use your light source like a pen or paintbrush and create an entirely brand new scene. Create characters and playful situations that you wouldn’t normally see at night. If the things you draw can interact with your landscape, even better.
Photo by Darren Pearson, http://blog.benmillerphoto.com/light-painting-the-basics/
3) Write it out. Spelling words can be a really cool way to record a message with your image. Leaving your light on the entire time will create a word written in cursive but if you want space between your letters, cover the light source or turn it off in between. If you’re facing the camera, remember to WRITE BACKWARDS!
Photo by It Flies By Photography, http://itfliesby.blogspot.ca/
To master techniques like this one plus many more, sign up for our NIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP!
WHEN: Thursday April 17, 6:30pm – 9:30pm
TO REGISTER NOW: click here.
For more info on other workshops like Lightroom 101 and
Travel Photography, please visit our website.
