How To: Steel Wool Photography
This popular photo technique has captured the attention of fire lovers and long-esposure enthusiasts alike. Not only do these pictures look really cool, but they also make for some interesting stories to tell. It's also a fun nighttime activity to do with friends. But the question is, how do you take a spinning fire picture like this?
1. Materials
You will need a camera, tripod, whisk, steel wool (found at most hardware stores, the more 0s the better for the grade type, I use Grade #0000), string (or a dog leash which I think works better), and a lighter.
2. Location
Find a dark, secluded area - the darker the better - and make sure there are no dry plants or substances that can easily be caught on fire. This image was taken in a tunnel under a road. I've also done this on a bridge. I'm currently in search of more locations to experiment and take more images like this.
3. Safety
Have your model wear pants and long sleeves (preferably with a hood) to protect themselves from then flying sparks. Make sure their hair is pulled back or tucked away so that it's not in danger of catching on fire. This sounds like a little much, but it's best to be safe, not sorry! It is also suggested to have an extinguisher handy in case things get out of hand.
4. Camera settings
You will need to keep your camera in manual mode or shutter priority. Set your shutter speed anywhere from 6 seconds to around 20 seconds for the best results. Your ISO number depends on how bright or how long your shutter is open, as well as what your aperture is set at. I normally keep mine between 100 and 400 to reduce the noise a high ISO may cause. Aperture is really your preference and how much of the background you want in focus. However, keep in mind that a smaller ISO allows more light to enter the frame which may be beneficial in a dark nighttime setting. It helps if you focus the camera and then switch the lens to manual focus before your subject begins spinning the steel wool.
5. Setup
Place your camera on the tripod and have your model where you want him or her in the frame. Next, set your camera functions to get a proper exposure and then take a test picture before lighting the steel wool. Now tie string or hook up a dog leash to the whisk and place a ball of steel wool into the wire caged space of the whisk.
6. Take the picture
Now that you have your settings just the way you want them, and your test picture looks good, be ready with your finger on the camera trigger. Have your partner light several different sections of the steel wool, and then immediately start spinning the whisk and steel wool. Continue taking pictures until the sparks stop flying off the whisk. Then repeat these steps until you have a photo you're proud of.
7. Helpful tips
Use your camera timer (or a remote)! This will allow a 2 second delay for you to move your hand before the picture is actually taken. It will reduce camera shake and possible blurriness within the image. If you want your spinner (or model) to be less visible in the picture, have them wear dark clothing or all black to blend in with the dark background better. Get creative and try different patterns or even moving while spinning the whisk to get a new and unique look.
Hope this helps and that you're able to create your own fire masterpieces! Please comment if you have any questions or feedback.
Captured on a Nikon D3100 with a Tamron 70-300mm Telephoto lens. ISO: 100, Aperture: 5.6, Shutter Speed: 6 seconds
Model: Jonah Corder
