Smoking Light Bulb 2

I have been getting a lot of requests asking for information on how this photo was actually taken. So below is a brief explanation for any other photographers who want to try it themselves.

Firstly, the hardest part of this exercise is to break the light bulb without actually breaking the wire element inside. The easiest was to do this is to place the light bulb inside a snap lock plastic bag. Then using a pair of pliers grab the light bulb glass down down low near the metal base and gently keep squeezing, increasing the pressure until you feel the glass either break or it will just shatter.

I was lucky with a few light bulbs where the glass broke right at the base of the light, so I was able to just sit the glass back onto the base. As you can see there is a whole in the glass though.
The light bulb flames because once the glass is broken, there is no gas to burn.
(Refer my other photos showing a flaming light bulb without the glass)
NOTE: If the wire element inside breaks when you break the glass.... throw the bulb away and start again.

Requirements =
1. Lots of light bulbs, and a desk or table lamp.
2. A black backdrop.
3. A totally dark room.
Camera settings = ISO 200, F8, and shutter speed 1-2500. Also make sure your camera is set to rapid fire.
At the precise moment when you switch on the lamp also start your rapid fire. Because when the light is switched on the flame is all over in less than 1 or 2 seconds. Hence the need for rapid fire.


It really is lots of fun.... good luck.

If you want any other tips or assistance please feel free to ask. More than happy to share my knowledge
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