Painting with Light
There is a photography technique that I enjoy experimenting with from time to time. Now more then ever with digital photography as my results are viewable almost instantaneously. The technique is known as painting with light. I'm going to describe this process in basic terms. The following is not meant as an instructional how-to but more of an overview for individuals that are new to photography, or for art collectors who would like to learn more about the technique.
The following photograph was not taken with expensive lighting equipment or an elaborate setup. The flowers were simply leaning out of a vase on desk. The room drapes were drawn to block out almost all natural daylight and before I was ready to take the photograph all room lights were shut off. A simple piece of dark fabric hung in the background.
Once the lights go out the magic happens. Yes, the all important fancy source of light is now ready for show time.
A tiny handheld flashlight. Yes, that's right, a regular old fashioned low powered small hardware store flashlight.
Now the fun begins. With the camera shutter set to open I shine the flashlight over the flowers and swirl it in little circles almost as though I'm "painting" the flowers with light. I do this a number of times for about a minute or so and then close the camear shutter. I repeat the process a number of times until I achieve the desired effect. Whalla...
~Kimberly
