Long Exposure Photography using Steel Wool

_{^{Video by PhotoExtremist. Author of Photography Tricks and Special Effects}}

Creativity should not have any limits! Spinning steel wool is a unique technique that could add excitement to your photography skill.  Earlier we discussed long exposures using sparkles and fireworks. Today Evan expends this technique (of long exposures) further, by introducing the technique of spinning steel wool.

Perfect time to shoot:

The best time of the day to shoot flying sparks is during the blue hour. Starting about 30-45 minutes after the sunset. At that time of the evening the ambiance is dark enough to do long exposures but the sky still has enough color (deep blue) for breathtaking effect.

Exposure and camera settings: 

Capturing sparks flying off from a steel-wool pad will require a long exposure or an open shutter (B).

Shutter speed: 15 or 30 seconds should give you enough time for creative spinning.

ISO: Keep ISO at 100 to minimize the grain. (200 is ok). Please note that the camera will produce more unwanted noise during the long exposure. From my observation, images shot using shutter speed below 1/15 sec will have more grain/noise that those shot at a faster speeds (given the same ISO).

Here is what you need for your shot:

• Steel wool – Available at any hardware store or online.  Red Devil brand - Grade 0, 00, 000, or 0000 will produce great sparks. Don't get anything at or above Grade 1 (too thick for sparks).
• Whisk – (borrow one from your kitchen) any cooking supply store should have it or online
  
• Steel cable or chain – Also any hardware store should have it.  You need a cable about 2 feet (70cm) in length.
  
• Tripod – Camera should be on tripod for the long (15sec to 30sec) exposure.
• Lighter/ Matches - To light the wool on fire.

While this technique has numerous creative implications some safety precautions should be seriously taken in consideration:  Do not try this indoors.  Do not practice this technique in the areas prone to wild fires.  Avoid areas with dry grass or any flammable objects or substances. Keep a fire extinguisher ready. Protect your eyes, hair and skin. So wear goggles,hat, long pants and sleeves. (we have a lot more tutorials coming up so you will need your eyes in the future)

Have fun. Post your results below using share your shot feature in comments.

This tutorial was brought to you by our regular contributor Evan Sharboneau.  Evan has published a pretty cool eBook: “Photography Tricks and Special Effects” it’s packed with unique techniques and mind-bending photographs: for more information click here

Related Tutorials:

• Long Exposures with Sparklers and Fireworks
• Introduction to Light Painting Technique
• Unconventional Christmas Lights Photography Techniques