Painting with a Difference - Light Graffiti

For all you enthusiastic amateur photographers with a DSLR camera itching to experiment, here is an exciting idea. Technically called 'Light Graffiti', light painting is a whole different play between light and shadow. For those who have not heard of it, here is a brief introduction.

Light painting is usually done in low light conditions, mainly at night or in dark rooms. You will need a digital camera with the option of controlling shutter speed (preferably a digital SLR rather than a compact digital camera), a stable tripod stand and light sources such as laser pointers, torches or even street lights and vehicle head lamps.

A DSLR is preferred since it usually comes with a 'bulb' mode wherein the shutter speed (time duration when the shutter of the camera is open) can be manually controlled and the results can be seen in real time. Several techniques can be employed: the light source can be moved with camera fixed and vice versa or both can be fixed and the light exposure controlled. One important tip is to keep the ISO rating low (say 200).

Let us explore with some examples. Before you begin, first visualise the path of the painting in your mind and set up your scene accordingly. Do note that here we are sticking on to indoor light painting.
Picture 1 is a very basic form of light painting wherein a laser pointer has been used to draw the shape of a man sitting on a chair. Here the camera is set to ‘bulb’ function in 'manual' mode and the shutter is held open until the drawing is completed. It is mandatory to fix the camera using a tripod or otherwise, the image becomes blurred.

Same technique can also be implemented with an LED torch as in pictures 2 & 3.

Once you get a grip on basic drawings, you can begin creating more complex and better images.

Moving on to the next level (picture 4): Here, a laser pointer has been employed to draw the outline of a lamp. The laser must be pointed very carefully to prevent distortion of what could be a real masterpiece. The direction and duration of pointing can be gauged through practice. For more effects, different colour pointers can also be used.

Note that this image has not been edited in any manner to create the effects.

Multiple surfaces that scatter light to different extents can generate more complex effects. One good way I hit upon by accident: keep a partly filled water bottle some distance away from the wall on a stable surface (picture 5). Focus on the bottle with lights on and then switch off the lights. Now point the laser through the bottle to get laser like effects on the wall. Once you are sure of where to point, press and hold the shutter button till you have completed your image.

Some more examples to follow:

Here (picture 6 & 7) the object being photographed is the same — a ceiling fan. Only change is the light source. In picture 6, a laser pointer has been used to draw the blades of a running fan. In picture 7, an LED torch is flashed on the fan and the shutter is held open for some time. See how two completely different images can be obtained with the same object.

Similar to the water bottle experiment, use a half-filled glass bowl instead. Picture 8 is taken from the front of the bowl by pointing laser through the bowl onto the wall. In picture 9, an LED torch has been pointed to the bowl and held constant to capture the reflection of the rim of the bowl.

By now you would have got loads of ideas to create your own light painting. It can also be carried outdoor by using street-lights or even moonlight.

All you need is a little practice and before you know it, you will have a tough time choosing your best work. So let your imagination run wild and keep clicking!

(Published in Star Of Mysore dated Aug. 10, 2010)