Use light as your artistic paintbrush and capture creative and surreal art in complete darkness. Join us and discover light painting techniques that transform a single long exposure photograph with moving lights into an otherworldly and dreamlike image captured entirely in-camera without extensive post-processing or digital manipulation.
Topics covered in this comprehensive hands-on course include:
- What light painting is and its artistic potential in photography
- What equipment and specific tools you need to get started with light painting
- Recommended camera settings for optimal exposure in dark and challenging light conditions
- Proven techniques for achieving sharp focus in very low-light environments and conditions
- Step-by-step demonstrations with volunteer models, professional backdrops, and table-top setups to practice
After an image-rich presentation and hands-on demonstration with volunteer models, backdrops, and creative table-top setups, you will have ample time to practice painting with light using hand-held tools and creative implements. You will experiment with different setups, positions, and techniques to discover what works best for your creative vision and style.
By the end of the class, you will have developed the technical skills and confidence to create your own surreal and captivating art with light alone. You will also be able to incorporate light painting techniques into your existing portrait or still life photography work to add drama and interest.
Recommended Gear and Equipment to Bring:
- A digital camera with full manual exposure controls, or a cell phone with a reliable long exposure app, and experience using it
- Lenses in the focal length range of 12 to 70 millimeters; a zoom lens is preferable and easier to work with for this type of shooting, but prime lenses will work well if that is what you have available
- A sturdy and stable tripod is absolutely essential for this type of light painting photography
Prerequisites and Recommended Experience: Participants should be comfortable operating their camera and know how to change exposure settings manually and independently. You should have basic familiarity with your camera's various focusing systems and modes. We will be shooting in manual mode throughout the class, and detailed settings guidance will be provided to all participants during the workshop.
Important Safety Note: There will be bright, flashing lights during this workshop to create the light painting effects. Please ensure you are completely comfortable with bright and flashing lights before signing up for this class.
School Notes: Mailing address:PO Box 855 Alexandria, VA 22313
