Why Light Painting Cars is the Ultimate Showcase
E92 BMW M3
The purpose of car photography is to showcase a vehicle in a way that best represents everything it offers. Location is key, as well as lighting. Both of those go hand in hand with your subject. When on location, finding a spectacular location at just the right time is immensely satisfying. When the temperatures are warm, and the light is beautiful as it covers the sky. But when you don’t have the gorgeous, golden light, or a location seems to elude you, how else can you capture the beauty of an automobile?
I just started with light painting after seeing a short video that demonstrated how, with one single light source, the car could be captured in a way that added drama and intrigue to something already considered interesting and sometimes beautiful. I was instantly intrigued, and after that, I dug into everything I could to learn the craft. Once I got started and realized what could be achieved, I wanted to light paint everything I could.
Light painting a car can be done almost anywhere, as long as it’s dark enough to take advantage of a long exposure. Also, light painting provides a unique method to present a vehicle; it’s a lighting process that not everyone understands. They can look at them with intrigue and mystery, wondering how that was achieved. As a result, you can control the mood, the essence, and the presence of the vehicle, making it the standout subject in any environment. With light painting, shapes and details can be emphasized, and others can be left in shadow. Your control of light allows you to create the mood you desire. You can make your own story and best present a vehicle the way you see it.
The great thing is, light painting doesn’t require a substantial investment to get started. You can probably use the camera and lenses you already have. There are numerous options for light wands, and even some of the best are pretty affordable compared to camera gear. You’ll need a stable tripod, one that you are confident will hold your gear. You should always trust your tripod!
Light painting transforms car photography, unleashing a creative opportunity unlike anything else. It allows photographers to shape light with intention, revealing a vehicle’s most captivating lines and hiding others in shadow to evoke emotion and mystery. It will enable photographers to showcase and highlight with great intention, bringing out the best in each subject.