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Scitech

Science Behind Scitech:
Drawing with Light

Explore the magic of ‘photons’ by creating a drawing with light, using long exposure camera settings.

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We’ve all seen stunning photographs of the night sky, but have you ever wondered how they were taken?

Using a camera and a bright torch, discover how long exposure photography works. Can you draw with light?  Watch the video below and try to recreate your own at home!

What you’ll need

  • A camera or a mobile phone with a camera
  • A dark place
  • A bright torch
  • Your imagination!

What you’ll do

  • Find the shutter speed setting on your camera or phone – you want to be able to keep the shutter open for at least 8-10 seconds.
  • Turn the torch on and point it at the camera.
  • Press the button on your camera or phone to start the long exposure photo.
  • Standing in front of the camera, use the torch to create shapes or spell out words – you can count out loud from one to 10 to help you keep track of how long your camera’s shutter is open for.
    TIP: Use a tripod or a shelf to keep the camera as still as possible. Then it’s only capturing the movement of your light, and not any extra shakes!
  • Check your artwork! How does it look?

Now that you’ve learned how to draw with light, keep experimenting! What kinds of shapes or patterns can you make?

Here’s one that we did at – well, can you guess where?
Scitech written in green light text.

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Pretty as a picture! This natural photo frame is made up of Tamala Limestone, found along more than 1000km of WA coast, from Shark Bay to nearly Albany. More accurately called 'aeolian calcarenite', this type of rock is made up of broken shell fragments brought ashore by waves and wind, and cemented by calcium carbonate. . 📸: @nature_camping_kids_ . . . #perthlife #explorewa #thisiwa #westernaustralia #perthbeaches #hamersleypools #indianocean #natureswindow #geology #limestone #geologyrocks
This week, we’re getting serious about the brightest star in the sky! 🌟 . Tune in to Audio Guide to the Galaxy to discover why Sirius shines so bright and where it sits in the canine constellation. . Find the latest episode on your podcast app of choice, or visit our website (link in bio). . . . #nightsky #astronomy #stars #stargazing #underthestars #space #spacepodcast #sirius
Next week we're offering FREE entry for teachers! Come and explore our educational offerings before you head back to the classroom for the new year. 👩‍🏫✨ . You are free to visit anytime between 11-4pm — just book your ticket online using your TRBWA Teacher Registration number (link in bio). . . . #teachersperth #whatsonperth
The human brain is pretty incredible. It's made up of approximately 80 billion nerve cells, called neurons that need to talk to each to keep your body functioning and your mind ticking. Here you can see the connections between brain cells! 📸: Jason Kirk / Quynh Nguyen / @nikoninstruments . . . #microscopy #microscopic #underthemicroscope #mindblowing #neurons
#ScitechWA @scitechwa
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