ON LOCATION

Get set up for oily abstracts

1 Light template

For this to work, you’ll need a colourful material to place over the top of your light. Any shape, pattern or colour will work – we used a Union Jack flag. You’ll also need to create a cardboard template that’s big enough to fit over your light source.

2 Light source

We’ve used a studio flash and softbox. If you don’t have one you can craft your own light box. Cut out one side of a box and attach your flag or colourful material. Next, shine a lamp or Speedlight through a hole in the opposite side of the box.

3 Oil on the water

For this effect you’ll want a wide dark container, like a baking tray. Next, fill it with water and add a few drops of cooking oil. Each drop will create beautiful reflections, so be ready to start shooting. If the oil starts to clump give it a quick swirl.

4 Macro lens

A macro lens enables us to get close to the surface of the water. If you don’t have one, don’t worry – any lens that enables you to zoom in with a short minimum focusing distance will be fine. Try using manual focus to get sharp shots.