Log In
Create Account

Light Graffiti Tutorial

So you want to make your own light graffiti? This page will show you how! Be aware, though, that there's no one way way to do it. This tutorial is just some advice on how to get started. The best light graffiti you'll ever make will be done when you tweak your camera settings how you see fit and use your creativity to do new things.

Tools:

Tripod

Tripod

A tripod (or a table to rest the camera on) is critical. Otherwise, your pictures will come out blurry. Camera

Camera

You'll have the best luck with DSLR (Digital single-lens reflex) cameras, but some (read: not all) point-and-shoot cameras will work. LED Light

LED light

There's not a particular LED light that works the best. You'll need to try any and all LED lights you can find to see what kinds of effects they produce.

Scenery Ideas:

Places with statues and playgrounds make interesting photos because you can decorate things in the pictures. Parks, schools, and playgrounds are good bets. The most important thing: Be creative!

Have other ideas? Add it to the Best Locations forum.

Instructions:

  1. Pick a location. For others' recommendations, check the Best Locations forum.
  2. The time you go will depend on how well-lit the area is. If there isn't much lighting, go at sunset. You'll need at least a little bit of light so the objects come out in the picture. If the area has streetlamps and other sources of lighting nearby, you should be fine going at night.
  3. Mount your camera on the tripod. It's really important that you have a tripod to mount your camera on. If you don't, your pictures will come out blurry.
  4. You'll need to adjust your camera settings to have a long shutter. It varies depending on how your camera is designed. Set it to as much time as you need (15-30 seconds is usually good). If you have questions, ask at the Camera Settings forum.
  5. Take the picture and try not to move the camera. Point the LEDs directly at the camera as you draw in the air. You'll need to play around with different techniques.
  6. If objects you want in the picture come out dark, shine a bright flashlight (like a Maglite) at the object for a second or two before the end of the frame.
  7. Show off your work on Mark The Dark!