Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Let There Be Light

Photo copyright: DAVID McMAHON. Image ID: 139-7018


These stage lights had me mesmerised at a recent function. They went through various colour sequences, with several swift permutations and combinations that utilised every colour of the rainbow - and then some!

There was swirling fog all across the stage, being blown by fans in every direction. I studied the lights. Then I studied the fog. Then I studied the lights again. Then I studied the fog again. Of all the light sequences and colour combinations that continued to flash, I knew which one would look the most striking.

But the real challenge was not just to wait several minutes until I had the red main light and the three blue lights. The real challenge was to wait until that particular combination of lights appeared when the fog had just the right density.

(Bear in mind this is just a low-resolution image. If you want to see it full size, you can view it here on my Red Bubble site.)

I needed just enough fog across the stage to give me the density that would work best with the blue and right lights. Too much fog and the lights would have been blurred. Too little fog and the lights would not have had the right effect.

I'll leave it to you to judge ...

10 comments:

cheshire wife said...

The blue lights are quite striking. It would have been interesting to see the full stage.

Rune Eide said...

Not only Foggy Bottom, but Foggy all the way :-)

A fun photo.

Katney said...

Did you shoot several and choose? Or do you just know your shot is right?

It may be one of the differences between a talented pro like you and someone like me with a pretty good eye and a lot of luck.

imac said...

Real nice work David, works well.
You should see my Rainbow in a Glass.

Maggie May said...

I wonder if you took photos of the full range of lights so that we could compere?
This one is really striking!
Maggie X

Nuts in May

Johnnny said...

I am always mezmerized by flashing red and blue lights especially when they are on the top of a cop car. Combined with a siren, it can be quite the free sound and light show, unless you are getting a speeding ticket.

Eddie Bluelights said...

Very impressive but I am at a complete 'fog' as to how you did it LOL ~ Eddie

SandyCarlson said...

This image carries an air of expecancy.

So. What shall I sing?

♥ Braja said...

That's amazing....

So are you :)

Jinksy said...

Turn 90° to the right, and it's a headless hand puppet! Hehehe!