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Fire Wall Tutorial

Light Painting Fire Wall Tutorial by Van Elder Photography

Barry from Van Elder Photography sent us this super cool—but very dangerous—Light Painting tutorial on how to create “Fire Wall” images like those seen below. Please enjoy and be inspired, but do not set your face on fire. Below is a summary of Barry’s detailed instructional post, which can be found on his blog HERE.


🧰 What You Will Need:

  • Camera with 30” (or Bulb mode) exposure
  • Tripod
  • Coleman’s fuel or other flammable fluid in an approved container
  • Old jug or similar container
  • Strap or rope
  • Pole to hang strap/rope
  • Lighter
  • CO2 fire extinguisher
  • Damp/wet towel
  • Non-flammable clothing
  • An assistant (or two!)

🔥 Fire Safety Tips (Read First!):

  • NEVER light the strap near the open container of fuel — fire drips will ignite the ground trail.
  • ALWAYS close and move your fuel container far away before lighting anything.
  • Stay clear of anything flammable: bushes, grass, cars, buildings.
  • Keep a wet towel nearby to wrap the strap and extinguish flames.
  • Have a CO2 extinguisher on hand — just in case.
  • Use common sense. This technique is dangerous and done at your own risk.

📸 Fire Wall Light Painting Instructions:

  1. Set up your camera and determine start/end points for your firewall. Mark with stones or chalk.
  2. Try ISO 100, f/14, bulb mode. Adjust as needed later.
  3. Place strap in jug and pour fuel over it — avoid spilling.
  4. Close and move your fuel container far away (at least 3 meters).
  5. Soak strap for 2–3 minutes.
  6. Attach strap to pole, complete final safety checks.
  7. Remove soaked strap, walk away from jug, light the strap in the middle for an even burn.
  8. Start the camera shutter using a remote trigger or with the help of an assistant.
  9. Walk steadily between the marked points to create your fire wall.
  10. Close the shutter when finished.
  11. Extinguish the strap: place it on a damp towel and fold it over, cutting off oxygen.
  12. Review the image. If overexposed, close down your aperture slightly.
  13. Repeat the process until you’ve created your desired shot.

🎥 Fire Wall Light Painting Tutorial Video

I hope this guide helps you understand the basic concept of the Fire Wall. Try using different types of rope, various fuels, or soaking only part of the rope for a partial burn effect.

Now it’s your turn. Be safe, get creative, and show us what you can do!

Stay safe and FLAME ON!
— Barry

🔥 More Fire & Light Painting Tutorials: