Many people assume that photographing light trails is difficult and requires a great amount of skill. The reality is that it is a fairly simple and fun technique to perfect. Once a photographer has got to grips with the basic camera settings he is free to explore and is limited only to the extent of his imagination and creativity.
Camera Settings Required to Photograph Light Trails
To photograph light trails the aperture should be as small as possible and long shutter speeds should be used. The aperture can be set to f/22 while the shutter speed can be played with a little. Depending on the results required the shutter can remain open for a few seconds or a few minutes using the cameras 'Bulb' setting. Shorter shutter speeds will create short trails while longer speeds will capture longer trails. The best way to decide on the shutter speed is to take a few test shots and make a judgement from the resulting images.
For best results when painting with light the camera should be mounted on a tripod. Due to the long shutter speeds needed the tripod will ensure the camera is kept as still as possible throughout the shooting process minimising the risk of any blurriness caused by ‘camera shake’. Using a remote shutter release will also help minimise the risk of accidently moving the camera as the shutter is pressed.
Using Torches to Paint With Light
When the camera is set it is time to start getting creative with torches. Any torch or item that omits light may be used. Different torches will create different effects and colours. Another option around fireworks night is to capture images of people drawing with sparklers.
When the cameras shutter is open the torch can be shone at the camera and moved around the scene to create a trail. The faster the torch is moved the more blurred or lighter the end result will be whereas if it is moved slowly it will create a stronger result. It may take a little experimentation to discover which effect is right for the final image.
Photographing Light Trails Left by Motor Vehicles
Car light trails can be photographed in their own right and they are often used to create movement in cityscapes and scenes. The photographer should choose his scene carefully making sure there are cars passing through on a regular basis and he is standing safely out of the way of the traffic. He should then open up the cameras shutter as cars pass by.
To add some interest and variety to these images the photographer could choose to position himself near a roundabout or a turning on a road. Twisting country lanes also make good subjects as the headlights will be thrown in all sorts of directions as it makes its way along its path.
Practice Makes Perfect When Painting With Light
Achieving the perfect image or light trail may take a little practice and experimentation however the results are highly rewarding. The only limits are those of the photographers own mind.
