UV Photography: Make Portraits Glow with Black Light

UV, or black light, sits at the far end of the visible light spectrum. In the dark, it makes objects and materials that reflect this part of the spectrum glow. Whites react the strongest, but they’re far from the only ones. UV light is used in many fields, so why not use it for photography and create striking portraits?

In this article, we discuss:

How UV (black) light works and why it’s perfect for creative portraits
The types of UV light sources and which are suitable for photography
How to work with UV-reactive paint, powder, clothing, and props
How to combine UV light with standard lighting to make your portrait stand out
How to use long exposures, colored lights, and motion
Camera settings that work well for UV photography without losing detail
What to watch out for, including UV lens filters

Black light behaves differently. If the UV source isn’t in the shot, it’s almost invisible, apart from a subtle blue tint. Because of that, you don’t have to worry much about traditional lighting setups. One UV source is enough, placed in front of the subject or slightly above them. Anything that reflects UV light appears in your photo.

Which UV light to choose

Several types of light emit UV light: lightbulbs, fluorescent tubes, spotlights, flashlights, and even laser pointers. Each works for different situations. For nightclub or stage lighting, it’s worth investing in a powerful spotlight. UV bulbs are weak and the least suitable for photography. For light painting, both flashlights and laser pointers work well.

For studio shoots, fluorescent UV tubes are the most practical. They’re inexpensive (usually around US$50), and if you need more output, choose a longer tube. You can also make your own basic UV light. Just buy some low-cost UV tape and attach it evenly to a rod or cardboard panel.

*The body paint alone is so striking that no additional light was needed.*
*Body painting by* *@sigi_dwn*
*Model* *@sariperfoms*

*With black light, contrasting visible colors like yellow, orange, and red, photograph beautifully.*
*Body painting by* *@magdalena_kastnerova*
*Model* *@dominika_dufkova*

Emphasize Color

Many objects glow under UV light. White clothing reacts strongly, and party-supply shops sell plenty of UV-reactive items: wigs, masks, colored contact lenses, powders, and paints. Color is an advantage. It brings attention exactly where you want it. This can be bold makeup or body paint, without the painted areas visible.

If you’re pairing body paint with lingerie, make sure the lingerie doesn’t glow more strongly than the paint. Avoid patterned pieces unless you’re shooting the lingerie itself and want it to be the focus. The painted designs can be structured—long lines, geometric shapes—or more free-form like floral patterns, ornamental patterns, or irregular colored spots.

*There are also hair dyes that react to UV light.*
*Painted by* *@barbarossarufus*
*Model* *@malej_velkej_hydrolis*

*Purple and mint green is a stunning combination. In the background, white fabric is lit with blue-green continuous light. Moving the fabric during a long exposure creates interesting texture.*
*Painted by* *@magdalena_kastnerova*
*Model* *@dominika_dufkova*

Bringing out your subject

The UV effect is mesmerizing, but for the portrait to truly pop, you also need standard lighting. Besides glowing colors, the subject should also stand out. Use flash and position it as you would for a regular portrait session . Keep the flash power moderate, since the goal is to shape the face and body, not add neon effects.

Another option is continuous light combined with a longer shutter speed. Since I focus on light painting, this is usually my go-to. But it’s more demanding for the model. They have to remain completely still for several seconds.

*I lit the model from the side using flash with a blue filter to define her contours.*
*Painted by* *@klarii.spin*
*Model* *@lilydevilain*

*In this example, I used flash, but the dominant light comes from behind, drawn with a flashlight during a long exposure.*
*Painted by @klarii.spin*
*Model* *@tereziamodel*

Camera settings for UV light

UV light makes up only a small part of the light spectrum, so it’s much weaker than regular white light sources. It is also continuous. Don’t expect to be able to freeze fast motion as you would with flash. I recommend using a tripod and choosing more stable poses for the model that allow you to shoot with shutter speeds of around 1/100s. You can raise ISO, but keep it sensible so you don’t introduce noisy shadows and lose detail.

*I added a red accent on the chest using a flashlight with a red filter.*
*Painted by* *@barbarossarufus*
*Model* *@sigi_dwn*

Many photographers use UV filters to protect their lenses. They’re clear, don’t affect exposure, and protect the front element if you drop your camera. However, when shooting with UV light, remove the filter. It blocks the very part of the spectrum you want to capture.

FAQs

Is UV photography safe? Yes, standard UV lamps and bulbs used for decorative purposes are safe. Do not use strong UV-C or disinfection-grade lamps.

Which colors glow the most under UV light? White, neon colors, and any UV-reactive paints or powders produce the strongest glow.

Should you combine UV light with regular lighting? Yes. While the UV glow is striking, adding conventional lighting helps shape the face so the portrait doesn’t appear flat.