"Glow" is a creative new music video from Toronto-based cinematographer Jonah Haber. Using a glow-in-the-dark background similar to what is often called a shadow wall, Haber captures the dancer's movements as a series of shadows frozen in time.
Shadow Walls can be found in a lot of children's museums along with plenty of delighted children jumping around creating funny poses. Haber's unique take, firing multiple strobe flashes to create elegant silhouettes to the music of Yes We Mystic, is definitely an interesting use of a backdrop. Even though the Shadow wall concept itself isn't that unique, applying it to a music video really makes for something that stands out from the usual music videos. I really like the execution of this film. Mostly because it takes what was typically a children's toy and makes it a musical expression of light and time.
If you find yourself inspired by this technique or want to experiment with it yourself here is a great video that walks you through making your own shadow wall and a little about the science behind it too. For a few dollars you can pick up some glow-in-the-dark vinyl wallpaper or even paint and experiment with both still and video. The only other component you need is a strong strobe. Of course add in some UV lights and fun props and you've either got a pretty cool photo booth or a weird adult party.
[via Colossal]
