Light Painting and Night Photos: Using a Torch Creatively

A torch isn't only a tool. It can also be a creative one. Photographers use small lights to paint with light at night.

What is light painting?

In light painting, you take a long exposure photo, where the camera's shutter stays open for several seconds, and move a light source while it is open. The camera records the light's path as a trail or lights up a subject.

What you need

1. A camera or phone with a long-exposure or night mode.
2. A tripod or something steady to rest the camera on.
3. A torch or phone light, or several.
4. A dark place without bright street lights.
5. A timer or remote, to avoid shaking the camera.

Basic steps

1. Set up the camera on a steady support.
2. Choose a long exposure, such as five to thirty seconds, or a night mode.
3. Focus on your subject, and lock the focus.
4. Start the exposure.
5. Move the light to draw shapes, write words or trace outlines.
6. Review the result and adjust.

Ideas to try

Idea	How
Light trails	wave a torch in circles or lines
Write your name	trace letters in the air, writing them reversed if you face the camera
Light up a subject	sweep a soft light across a tree or a building

Tips for better results

• Wear dark clothes so you don't appear in the photo.
• Keep moving so that you don't show up as a blur.
• Use a soft or dim light for even lighting on objects.
• Change colours by placing a coloured cloth or filter over the light.
• Try several tries. Light painting needs practice.

Safety

• Take care in the dark, and watch your footing.
• Don't shine lights at people's eyes.
• Never go onto roads or private land to shoot.
• Tell someone where you are if you're out at night.

Phone cameras

Many phones have night or long-exposure modes. A phone on a small tripod, with a torch in your hand, is enough to begin.

Fun and free

You don't need special equipment. A simple torch that turns on with a tap is a good start for a creative evening.

Get Night Torch →