- Accent lighting is any light that adds a unique color or aspect to an object that otherwise would not exist. The most common type of accent is an unnatural color being shined on part or all of an item. To create a DIY accent light, paint the clear plastic over the bulb of a flashlight with opaque paint, such as watercolors. Several layers are usually needed, and the plastic will appear to be completely dark when finished. Once turned on, the flashlight will produce a beam of light the color of the paint.
- Glow sticks were primarily used for accenting still objects, but have recently become the tool of choice for light graffiti photographers, who take ultra-long exposures of light sources in the dark to create art. Taping flexible glow sticks to a ball will produce a graffiti ball that can be rolled or tossed in the dark for professional-quality light painting. In addition to light graffiti, thin glow sticks can also be strapped to photography gear for nighttime expeditions to avoid misplacement in the dark.
- Outdoor location shots in need of a large external light can be a problem for low-budget setups. To remedy the situation, using car headlights to directly or indirectly illuminate a subject is quite easy. Powerful headlights can also be used to cast intense shadows for suspense and action shots. Position opaque white plastic, such as white trash bags, over the lamps to diffuse and soften the glare.
- Sunlight can be harnessed in a variety of ways, such as using aluminum foil as a reflector. Shaded areas are excellent for portrait shots, as the light is naturally diffused, while direct sunlight can be used to accentuate specific items or to create artistic light flares.
- Fire offers a warmer light than any flash available, as well as an ever-changing array of shadows as the flames change size and direction. Fire can be used in the dark to cast eerie glows on objects, or near dark objects to illuminate without over-exposing the item.
