Ball of Light – The Denis Smith Documentary

LPP ∇ First of all WOW, what an awesome documentary. It’s such an honest and inspiring story. How did this project come about?
DS ∇ Sam Collins visited my booth at an art market and we hit it off. He originally wanted to do a 3-minute short film, but quickly realized my story went much deeper.

LPP ∇ The film is deeply personal. Were you hesitant to open up?
DS ∇ Not really. Sam made me feel completely at ease. It was a reminder of how far I’d come.

LPP ∇ How long did it take to complete?
DS ∇ About 4 months. We worked together at a natural pace and really found our rhythm.

LPP ∇ Any memorable moments while filming?
DS ∇ Absolutely. Sam fell asleep on train tracks during a late shoot, and the Ball of Light saved him—no joke! I captured it all on camera.

LPP ∇ What are your plans for the film?
DS ∇ We’ve had great online response. It’s being used as a motivational and promotional piece, and it’s resonating with people wanting to make real change.

LPP ∇ What was your turning point in life?
DS ∇ Realizing I was working just to stay afloat. With my wife’s support, I made the leap to choose happiness and health.

LPP ∇ Did you quit immediately or plan your exit?
DS ∇ I had to be strategic due to debt. Luckily, the company made me redundant, which helped.

LPP ∇ How did Light Painting enter your life?
DS ∇ I got bored with standard photography. Finding Light Junkies on Flickr and seeing artists like Jeremy Jackson and Michael Ross blew me away and inspired me to push myself.

LPP ∇ What gear do you use?
DS ∇ Canon 5Dmk2 with 24-105L and 50mm. But I stress—gear isn’t everything. I started on a 450D and created some of my best work with it.

LPP ∇ What tools do you use for the Ball of Light?
DS ∇ Simple LED setups—about 30 sets with varied color and brightness. A 12V supply keeps them powered.

LPP ∇ Are you doing Light Painting full time?
DS ∇ I sell prints and do markets, but still have a day job. Light Painting is growing though, and I dream of following the full moon across the globe!

LPP ∇ What about your printing process?
DS ∇ I use Atkins. High-quality Epson prints mounted on gator foam or framed. I might buy an Epson A2 for smaller runs.

LPP ∇ Have you found your life’s path?
DS ∇ Yes. Light Painting is healthy and fulfilling. I’m open to where it leads but not searching anymore. I value health, sanity, and family above all else now.

LPP ∇ What do you hope people take from this film?
DS ∇ That it’s okay to make big changes when you’re struggling. Change is hard, but worth it. And anyone can pick up a camera and start creating.

LPP ∇ Should we all quit our day jobs?
DS ∇ Only if it’s making you sick and you have support. Get out of debt. Own your happiness. The rest will come.

LPP ∇ Congrats on everything. The world is glad you found the light.
DS ∇ Thanks, Jason. I’m glad the light found me too.

More from Denis and Sam:
balloflight.com.au |
samcollinsmedia.com