Dressing a Model with Light Using Long Exposure Photography Techniques

Long Exposure Photography  •  Photography Tips

The photographer wanted to put a twist on a traditional high-fashion commercial shoot. The concept was to create a fresh, clean look for advertisements.

Creating a Dress With Light Painting

• Use A Good Light Source – the photographer uses electroluminescent wire to “paint” a dress in the open space. The thin, illuminated wire moves in a sweeping motion, much like an actual paint brush, and leaves a trail of light that looks like material. You can also use small flashlights or LED lights to achieve a similar effect.
• Keep Your Body in Motion – Light painting requires the use of a slow shutter to pick up the constant trails of light. As the painter, you must remain in motion while dragging the light source through the air to avoid capturing your image on the picture.
• Wear Dark Clothing – Wearing dark-colored clothing will help keep you from appearing in the final photo by not allowing the light to reflect off your skin or clothes.
• Picture the Dress as You Paint – It is almost impossible to remember exactly where you painted the lines of your dress, but if you have an idea of how you want the finished dress to look, it will make your artwork easier. If you want a dress that is flowing, you should create long, sweeping motions with the light; if you prefer a dress that looks like it is made of feathers, consider using sharper, jagged lines around the hemline.