DIY (Do-It-Yourself)

Before you continue, watch the video here. Then prepare yourself:

Materials List:

• A digital camera with long exposure abilities (the longer the better)
• Source of light (e.g. a torch or LED Throwie)
• Dark surroundings (the darker the better)
• Tripod (or a stable surface)

Method:

1. Set up your digital camera on your tripod or flat surface.
2. Set your camera's shutter speed to 30 seconds (or the longest it can go - you might need your camera manual for this). Flash off.
3. If you're working by yourself, turn on the self-timer. Press the capture button, run to wherever your camera is focused, and turn on your light source.
4. Draw or write your protest in the air using your light source. If you want to stop a line segment and start a new one, turn your light off, move it over, and turn it back on!
5. When you're done, wait for your camera to finish taking the shot.
6. Admire your creation.

We Challenge You to Try:

1. Write or draw with your light source as close to the camera lens as possible.
2. Use different coloured lights at one time.
3. Get more than one person to write stuff at the same time.
4. Jump whilst you write/draw.
5. Lighten Up in a number of locations; how many areas can you attack in one night?
6. Write the longest message possible.
7. Draw the most complicated drawing possible.
8. Try different cameras.
9. Try different exposure times.
10. Challenge a friend to the best Lighten Up protest ever, then send us the results for a visual petition!