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INTRO
Light Painting is a great way to create striking images and illusions using a camera, a light source, and a little practice. When the camera shutter is open (and the room is dark) the film or digital sensor acts like a blank canvas. It’s as if the image is being drawn or painted by the light source as it moves through space. It’s also possible to create interesting effects by exposing the same subject multiple times, for example by shining a flashlight onto parts of a body, or turning the lights on and off briefly and moving between takes.
Almost anything that projects light can be used as a light source, so this activity can be very low tech: an old analog camera will work, and even the moon can be used to paint with! Or, you can use high tech light sources, such as programmable LED to switch colors, EL wire, or even an iPad. Once visitors start playing and seeing the results of their efforts, creativity is sparked and lots of ideas are generated. Working with a partner also seems to be very satisfying.
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