Today we have a video tutorial on how to do levitation photography. Many photographers have mastered and refined this technique producing very compelling images that leave viewers wondering how they were created.
As described in the video, these photos are often most amazing when the subject has a delicate and elegant jumping style. The photos often look more convincing when the subject is captured on the upward journey of the leap. The goal is to make it look like you are not jumping but actually floating from the perspective of the camera. The website they mention in the video is yowayowacamera.com; she has truly mastered this art and built a popular photo blog around the concept.
"float down" captured by Shawn Moreton (Click Image to See More From Shawn Moreton)
Clothing can move in a way that reveals the fact you are jumping so that is something to keep in mind. Think about tucking in your shirt if it appears too loose. Keeping your hair in place with lots of gel and hairspray can help or simply wear a hat.
What you will need:
- Camera (preferably that has a self-timer)
- Tripod or something similar
How to capture a levitation photo:
- Setup your camera on a tripod, or have an assistant get in position to take the photo.
- Set your camera to use a fast shutter speed – fast enough to freeze motion (such as 1/500 or faster).
- Set your self-timer to take the photo (if you do not have an assistant).
- Jump off the ground or step off an object at the exact moment the camera is about to take a photo
Think about integrating accessories into your technique that will make it even more realistic such as a broom, vacuum, purse, or an umbrella as shown here… there are infinite possibilities. Objects in the surrounding environment can also be visual aids such a phone booth, railings, or entry ways. The more creative you are, the better your results will likely be.
For further training on techniques like this, check out Trick Photography and Special Effects; a best-selling instructional eBook that explains how to do most of the trick photos that often capture attention and amazement from viewers. It also teaches the basics that are essential before moving onto advanced techniques. With 270+ pages of information, it is very detailed and includes extensive explanations of many complicated methods that are very fun to learn.
It is currently available here: Trick Photography eBook
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This is a handheld photo. I had two SB-600 speedlights on lightstands camera right, as well as a third SB-600 held by an assistant (also camera right). They were fired via Nikon’s CLS system. I had the model jump from the top of the planter seen in the photo behind him. It took a few tries to get the shot just right, so that his tie wasn’t floating up, and his posture was correct.