GET CREATIVE WITH LIGHT PAINTING

There are so many fun to try out in techniques T photography, one of which is light painting. In this masterclass I'll teach you all you need to know about the technique - from the equipment you need through to tips and tricks for getting the best shots. Let's get started!

- Jo Plumridge

 

WHAT IS LIGHT PAINTING? First things first! Light painting (sometimes called light drawing or light graffiti) uses a moving light source, such as a torch, to add light patterns to a long exposure. It's a freeform style of photography, with photographers adding different colors. shapes, patterns or just blocks of light to an image with artificial light.

EQUIPMENT

You will need certain equipment to produce successful light painting photos. Firstly, your camera needs to have full manual controls and a Bulb mode that allows you to leave the shutter open for as long as you choose. Lenses will depend on what you’re photographing, although most light painting scenarios will benefit best from using a wide-angle lens. A wideangle lens gives you more room to play around in and a greater area to create more dramatic effects in.

As you’ll be shooting long exposures a tripod is crucial to avoid motion blur and camera shake. Make sure your tripod is sturdy and won’t be blown around by any breeze! In conjunction with a tripod, you’ll also need a remote shutter release. Pressing the shutter button down can cause slight camera shake, so using a remote release will negate this issue.

Plus, as you will be shooting in Bulb mode and choosing when to stop shooting, a remote release will make life far easier. It’s worth noting that many modern cameras have the ability to be controlled via an app on your phone. And, if you’re moving light sources around yourself, a stopwatch allows you to time your movements and can tell you when to stop firing.