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Step 1

Choose A "Paintbrush."

We used multicolored glow sticks. 

Any small, portable object that emits light works.

Some other options are a headlamp, a light stick, a fake candle or even another phone's flashlight.

Step 2

Download The App.

Painting with light involves a slow shutter speed. 

Instead of fiddling around with your phone's settings, try installing one of these two FREE apps. 

VSCO or Long Exposure Camera 2 by AAAS Dream. 

Step 3

Set up your camera.

Have your phone open to the app.

Set it to Light Tracing and 10 second pictures. 

Ask a partner to hold it steady.

Step 4

Turn Off The Lights!

Make the room as dark as you can.

Any light coming from elsewhere (ex: street lamps, windows, car lights, etc.) will also be captured and make the painting less vivid.

Step 5

Paint A Design!

Use your "paintbrush" to draw a design in the air. 

Try something simple at first like a heart.

The cameraperson will hit "Light Trace" (Long Exposure 2 App) to capture the movement. 

SO LIT!

And that's it! The slow-shutter movement will save itself as one "long" picture. 

It's also a fun way to practice the alphabet. 

Write out a fun message!