Light Painting Photography

For the promotion and progression of Light Painting Art and Artist.

You are here: Home / Light Painting Spiral Tutorial – Step‑by‑Step Guide

Light Painting Spiral Tutorial – Step‑by‑Step Guide

How to Light Paint a Spiral – Step‑by‑Step Tutorial

Learn how to create stunning spiral Light Paintings using a simple handheld light and long-exposure photography. This tutorial guides you through the step-by-step process to make glowing spirals of light with Jason Rinehart.

🛠 What You Need

  • Light Sword from Light Painting Brushes
  • Camera with Manual Mode or Bulb Mode
  • Tripod
  • Dark environment (indoors or outdoors at night)

📸 Recommended Camera Settings

  • Shutter Speed: 8–30 seconds (long exposure)
  • Aperture: f/8 to f/16
  • ISO: 100–200
  • Manual focus locked on your starting point

🎨 How to Create a Spiral

  1. Set up your camera on a tripod or stable surface.
  2. Enter the frame with your light turned off.
  3. Once the shutter opens, turn on the light and begin spinning it in a circle rotating your body.
  4. The movement creates a spiral during the spin.
  5. Finish by turning off your light before exiting the frame and closing the shutter.

✨ Creative Tips

  • Use colored gels or RGB lights for more vivid spirals.
  • Try combining multiple spirals or changing height mid-spin.
  • Slow down your rotation.

📍 Helpful Notes

  • Wear black clothing to stay hidden in the frame.
  • A dark environment is essential.
  • Practice your motion before shooting the final image.

🔗 Related Tutorials