Light painting is a process coupling long-exposure and consistent manual lighting via a flashlight or other hand-controlled light source.
With regards to the images on this page, the shutter is kept open for a minimum of 30 seconds while the subject is kept in total darkness. With the shutter is open, a flashlight is used to "paint" the image, by constantly moving the light over the subject, lingering in areas to create contrast and depth.
While it may be simpler to use stagnant light sources or strobe lighting, the process of light painting creates a softened, painterly texture and results in unique images with every exposure. The manual nature of light painting allows for a more natural flow to creating images, rather than the typical measured lighting of a studio environment.

Contact sheet — example showing several different RAW exposures, all with very different end results





