Why Light Painting Might Be the Most Relaxing Form of Photography

Photography often feels fast.

We chase fleeting expressions, changing light, deadlines, weather, and moments that disappear in a split second. There is absolutely a place for that, but lately I have found myself drawn back to something a little slower.

Light painting.

If you have never tried it before, it feels a little like magic the first time. One torch, a dark room, a long exposure and suddenly everyday objects begin transforming into moody, painterly scenes that look more like artwork than photographs.

The funny thing is, people often assume these images require a studio full of expensive gear and complicated setups. They really don't.

Some of my favourite light painted images have been created with old books, flowers, bits of fabric, vintage props and a simple little torch.

What I love most about light painting is that it changes the way you see. Instead of photographing what is already there, you begin shaping the scene yourself. You start noticing texture in timber, folds in fabric, dusty old objects and tiny highlights that would otherwise go unnoticed.

You stop simply taking a photo.

You begin creating one.

Unlike traditional lighting where the whole scene is illuminated at once, light painting lets you slowly build your image piece by piece. You decide where the light falls, what deserves attention and where you want the viewer's eye to travel.

There is also something strangely calming about it.

You slow down.

You experiment.

You make mistakes.

And trust me, there will be mistakes.

You will create weird squiggly lines, accidentally over-light a flower, bump your tripod in the dark or spend ten minutes wondering why nothing is in focus before realising autofocus is still switched on.

Ask me how I know.

But that is also part of the fun. Some of the best images happen through happy accidents and experimentation.

If you are curious about trying it yourself, start simple. A torch, a tripod, a few objects from around the house and a willingness to play are enough.

Recently I put together a new ebook called Light Painting Basics, where I walk through my beginner-friendly approach to creating painterly still life images. I cover simple gear setups, camera settings, where to paint your light, common mistakes and troubleshooting tips for getting started.

Mostly though, I wanted it to feel like creating alongside a friend rather than reading a technical manual.

Because photography should still feel fun.

Now if you'll excuse me, I have a dark room, a torch and probably another old book waiting to become part of a still life setup.

P.S. want to take it even further? I am running a small Light Painting Class on 1st August 2026. You can msg me for more information or book via Eventbrite.