It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas – so I thought I’d take a look at what people are posting on Flickr and saw this theme emerging. Freaky Christmas Lights wrapped around people, animals, kids….
Note: some people don’t find this post safe for work or to be family friendly. Proceed with caution if sensitive. Also – if you’re going to try this at home – be very careful!
Image by sweethardt
Image by B Rosen
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149 Responses to “23 Christmas Lights Photos – With a Twist” - Add Yours
December 17th, 2007 at 12:51 am
Nice pix. You don’t seem to have my favorite. The slow flash . http://www.flickr.com/photos/gfurry/2094805949/in/photostream/
December 17th, 2007 at 3:13 am
Seems dangerous to me.
December 17th, 2007 at 4:02 am
why dangerous?
December 17th, 2007 at 9:26 am
I swear I’m not a Grinch, and these pictures are all really cool, but given the recent findings of high lead levels on the cords of the most common lights, I just cringe seeing these. And I’m not coming from any moral high ground, as I took a photo of my toddler draped in lights last year. Oh, the guilt!
Wrap the lights around yourselves if you must, but don’t wrap your kids in them, folks!
December 17th, 2007 at 11:10 am
Personally, I’m fondest of the weimereiner.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:25 am
Very cool ideas with some of the shots. I don’t know why but I find some of the shots to be kind of morbid. They just kinda creep me out I gues.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:53 am
Sorry guys but eye don’t get this one. I try to find the beauty (technically and artistically) in the topics, comments and on the forums and so on. This just looks dangerous, though there are some good ones in between. Until you’ve had a fire start or got a good zing from a set of those lights you may not understand. Not my kid…
December 17th, 2007 at 7:48 pm
@ Randy:
Very cool ideas with some of the shots. I don’t know why but I find some of the shots to be kind of morbid. They just kinda creep me out I gues.
There’s a BDSM-ish element to several of them; that might be what’s creeping you out a bit.
December 17th, 2007 at 11:35 pm
Wow nice xmas tree!
December 18th, 2007 at 1:27 am
Hmm.. .Can’t say I’ve seen any of these in a Christmas card before.
December 18th, 2007 at 1:50 am
I think that DPS should have had a disclaimer on their e-mail update today as for the content of these pictures. I’m disappointed that they did and still posted them for all unsuspecting people to view.
December 18th, 2007 at 4:14 am
My thought is to Photoshop lights instead of wearing them…especially on children and animals. Looks like some safety issues.
December 18th, 2007 at 7:26 am
Lead , electricity and disclaimers? Come on folks I don’t know a single person on the planet that has been hurt by Christmas lights. It is not like these shots were taken in a bathtub full of water. And as for the lead, its not like they were wrapping babies in lead for weeks at a time. I doubt that even if there was lead on the lights it would hurt anyone unless they ate it.
I am also not sure why you would need a disclaimer for the content? The only thing I can think of is the scantily clad women. If you are offended by this I suggest not looking at most photography magazines, books, websites, or forums if this type of thing offends you.
Just my 2¢
December 18th, 2007 at 8:28 am
friend of mine was shocked while hanging lights last year. oh she was pregnant. the baby is fine…
carry on
great shots
December 18th, 2007 at 12:49 pm
I agree, get over yourself. There’s nothing wrong with the photos. Don’t get the blindfold. I enjoyed them. The most obscene one was the dog! lol The most interesting thing I noticed is I forget where this site is and realized it’s already tomorrow there. zen momment
December 19th, 2007 at 4:28 am
I’m a bit shocked at some of the responses, really, this is a photography site – it’s all about interpretation in the art of photography, and light is a main factor in photography. Christmas is near and people [photographers] put two and two together and we get to see these great photos. I can’t see anything worthy of a disclaimer, and, if people want to attempt to shock themselves with a little bit of electricity in the name of art – c’est la vie. So, i’m going to have to go against the grain and say that I love this set of shots and “no animals were harmed in the making…” ….as you were
December 19th, 2007 at 4:33 am
most of the pics are beautiful , good work and nice post . as for ” Julie ” I suggest you stay off the net …. you will be so much safer
December 19th, 2007 at 5:18 am
These lights use dc, that’s not a danger. Low power.
Or else, the lights adds to the pictures. I like them.
December 19th, 2007 at 7:08 pm
I think they’re a bit bondagey, seem a bit on the freaky side for my taste.
December 21st, 2007 at 1:31 am
Great ideas…I love the naked woman on the bed with the star lights!
Live and Let Live!
Don’t Hate…Appreciate!
December 21st, 2007 at 11:46 pm
I was hurt very bad one year by Christmas Tree lights. Someone left them on the stairs, I ran up the stairs, and one of those little buggers went right though the bottom of my foot. OUCH! But seriously, that was just not being careful… I think these are great photos that show a lot of creativity. I’ll remember these for next years card ideas!
December 22nd, 2007 at 12:29 am
I love the pics, but I think it’s quite dangerous. I got shocked twice with christmas lights
– nice pics though!
December 22nd, 2007 at 1:54 am
Sorry, Neelesh. The lights use AC and at full 120 volts. There is no rectifier in the circuitry to change the AC to DC nor a transformer to lower the voltage.
December 22nd, 2007 at 11:06 am
Thanks, it gave me inspiration to make this photo:
http://johnbokma.com/mexit/2007/12/20/christmas-girl.html
December 23rd, 2007 at 9:54 am
i think the photos are great, but man the people’s comments on here are ridiculous…
i’ve been zapped by lights before, was stapling them up and put a staple through the line and got zapped. barely felt it. i’ve got shocked from a bad power cord on a coke machine and that was much worse, my hand locked up and i couldn’t let go.
so i don’t really see the danger in the photos, they’re just wrapped around people, who cares, you do things a million time more dangerous everyday, like driving, how’s that for safety?
December 27th, 2007 at 2:15 am
When people stop thinking for other people and think for themselves, we will stop worrying about offending the unknown masses. Why do we feel like our standard is so much higher than the next person to make a statement such as there needs to be a disclaimer? Is the next person incapable of making up their own mind about viewing the images? A twist of a contemporary saying holds true: political correctness is for those who cant take reality, reality is for those who cant take political correctness.
December 28th, 2007 at 2:01 pm
I agree with the majority. I, too, looked for the artistic beauty in these shots, but they creep me out. Wrapping myself in Christmas tree lights seem to be a little on the bizarre side.
December 30th, 2007 at 10:48 am
Great photos – but don’t agree with the kids and animals shots. There was a little girl killed by faulty lights last year (almost)- and she wasn’t wearing them.
January 3rd, 2008 at 1:23 am
It seems to me that you must be looking for sexual content in these photos to actually be offended by them. I personally love the artistic nature and imagination that was involved to create these photos. If you can be offended by these then you would be best to close your eyes and cover your ears.
Next thing you going to say is Zoos need a disclaimer at the gate because the animals might just decide to mate while you watch. the world is becoming to sensitive, and way to controlling.
January 4th, 2008 at 10:36 am
You people are way too sensitive. These are cool!
January 7th, 2008 at 3:56 pm
The people who are way too sensitive are those who can’t graciously accept anyone saying they have some objections to the photos! Why do you feel compelled to criticize these people? It’s a given that some people will like a photo and some won’t.
January 7th, 2008 at 10:55 pm
We did something similar last year
http://www.flickr.com/photos/depechie/419926635/in/photostream/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/depechie/419926639/
January 9th, 2008 at 6:45 am
Not the most practical outfits.. I guess you could run an extension cord or have some sort of solar power device strapped to yourself – if you wanted to go down town.
January 14th, 2008 at 5:48 am
Truly amazing job in PS. Great skiils!!
February 2nd, 2008 at 8:38 am
Fantasitic, great ideas should give us all a new perspective on the Christmas lighting chore! very well done.
February 6th, 2008 at 4:09 pm
My first thoughts were, “what would happen if there was a leak in the wire….” Esp with the pic of the wire in someone’s mouth!! I have pics with much safer lights with my son that my wife and I took over several years. So I do like the idea and all. And yes, some of the shots are really nice.
March 27th, 2008 at 12:59 am
Nice photos but why do they almost all have to be pornographic in nature to be interesting? Why can’t we come up with ones that don’t require sensual images to be attractive?
March 27th, 2008 at 1:06 am
Hey There, Micah… I don’t see anything pornographic – are we looking at the same pages?
Regards,
Simon.
March 27th, 2008 at 1:10 am
I was disappointed in the surprise content of the several pictures of naked women on beds with lights wrapped around them. I think this should be kept in another section if it is shown at all.
March 27th, 2008 at 1:15 am
I Take your point, but in the images above you certainly don’t see more than if you were to go to any beach?
Regards,
Simon
September 26th, 2008 at 10:53 pm
I took similar pics one year of my girlfriend…I wrapped her in a strand of lights and as we were taking pics the strand started smoking and she said the bulbs were burning her skin! Not such a good idea with old lights. Oops!
November 1st, 2008 at 12:58 am
Nice post Sime, these have given me a few ideas. A bit of long exposure coming up
November 1st, 2008 at 1:41 am
Wow, what a misconception.
1.)Lead does not hurt you unless ingested, inhaled, or rubbed into an open wound.
2.)Modern Christmas lights have LOW to NO lead content b/c of safety laws in practically all countries. (no guarantees on the retro ones from the 60′s though)
3.)Any lead in the Christmas lights are in the wires, and the wires are covered in PVC plastic shielding – if you’re rubbing up against exposed metal wires, you should really be worried about something else besides lead :0
Having said that, this is a neat idea. Cool photos!
November 20th, 2008 at 7:43 am
These are fantastic! What a great IDEA! (lightbulb goes on) lol pun intended
November 22nd, 2008 at 6:20 pm
All of the pics are beautiful and indicated the skill shown by photographer. I appreciate this good work and nice post, I think these are photos that show a lot of creativity.
December 8th, 2008 at 9:02 am
I took the one up there with the two kids. It was used in a national ad campaign by the postal service in 2007, in fact. The kids are sitting here, alive, lead free and healthy, reading these comments with me and thinking these comments are nutty. The boy one says “isn’t pornography naked people? I don’t see naked people.”
So, you know, whatever. I love these pics, even the ones I didn’t take.
December 11th, 2008 at 11:46 am
Ten years ago, when teaching art at a university, I used to wrap the models in xmas lights and got some great drawings & paintings from them. Great fun.
December 17th, 2008 at 11:51 pm
Who exactly are all you preachy people preaching at? These came off of Flicker. Do you really think the original photographers are reading your posts?
December 19th, 2008 at 10:50 am
Some of these are great, some I don’t see the point of. My favorites in order from top to bottom are 9, 13, and 16. Shot 16 is priceless! I only see one nude and I feel it’s tastfully done. I think a shot of a harried mom trying to decorate and tangled in the lights would be hilarious. Maybe with a couple toddlers at her feet. lol
December 24th, 2008 at 2:27 pm
I agree with the majority here also – and I think that Sime said it extremely well!
The only thing I can see that is in any way “obscene” is that #3 is pretty freaky, I can see that in some horror movie….Probably leaving the person they dragged into a dark room looking like #17. *L*
But the partial/nude ones were very tastefully done, very artistic or sweet like the couple with the colored lights. #16 is my favorite, and I would give just about anything to recreate that shot with my daughter! *L*
Thanks for the wonderful shots, and taking the time to put all of these together to help all of us become better photographers ~ And get the shots that make us go, “Yes!!!!!!”
Sarah (sorry, so long!)
December 27th, 2008 at 6:16 am
Merry Christmas you all,I laughed at your comments,sounds like some of you will need prune juice just to get your mind moving.I think you are correct in your opinions,but honestly some of you are so anal in your out look its a wonder you are able to function at all. If ignorance is bliss,then you must be a bunch of real happy shits.!!
January 19th, 2009 at 2:49 pm
I really enjoyed this article, Thanks for sharing this, every picture is antique.
Rose.
June 26th, 2009 at 7:46 am
Sorry but , The hot chick (with lights)(babies)(dogs) Pretty boring . . . Same thing every year .
Just Me . . .
August 26th, 2009 at 12:43 am
I don’t see what is disturbing about these at all. Well, #3 is kinda freaky, but in a good way. I may try something similar this year myself. Way cool.
August 26th, 2009 at 3:04 am
I really love it. Art
August 26th, 2009 at 3:15 am
Creepy? Over-reaction. These are a lot less creepy and disturbing than the nightly news or even Harry Potter for that matter. And the lead worry? Come on, there is little exposure there at all. They offer up a creative way of thinking about using christmas lights. What is it with some people is this forum? If you are really concerned about such things, there are far bigger fish to fry–use that energy in those areas. You could start with who you elect to your government.
August 26th, 2009 at 4:20 am
Ok, now I’ve got the lights, where can I find a willing model.
J.
August 26th, 2009 at 4:57 am
I really admire the creativity shown, and think this could be adapted to many differnt moods depending on what style and color of lights used, a slow sync flash, or long exposure… my favorites were weaering the lights on the head on a halo, or the romantic kissing couple, what a great idea for holiday engagement photos…
I want to try wrapping the lights over a model in an angel or fairy costume with wings, and then altering in photoshop….
and as to the voltage/heat/mobility issue….did you know that you can find battery powered strands, lcd light kits to sew onto clothes, battery-lit glasses, acessories, etc? look in craft stores, or costume and novelty shops, especially from halloween through new year’s…. so may possibilities for SAFE creativity, and to each their own as far as style and subject matter.
August 26th, 2009 at 8:26 am
I like them all. Don’t care what anyone else thinks.
August 26th, 2009 at 8:54 am
Appreciated the imagination that went into alot of the pics.
August 26th, 2009 at 11:08 am
I love the photos. gives me some ideas to try for halloween with orange and black lights.thanks
August 26th, 2009 at 2:43 pm
I liked them! I did not find them offensive at all. I am not aware of any health problems, but I wouldn’t think there would be that much exposure to whatever it is!
August 26th, 2009 at 7:55 pm
Photo 5 and 20 is to me beautiful and well excecuted. Photo with the dog? Ever so sweet, if doggy wants to sit still, drape him in the lights and get trigger happy. Qute. Nice
August 27th, 2009 at 2:54 am
These were so offensive I only looked at the 6 times. There are some really neat shot here.
August 27th, 2009 at 3:16 am
WOW! Different, to say the least. Some of them I definitely liked. Some of them were…well…interesting.
August 27th, 2009 at 4:56 am
okay, yeah, some are creepy…but in a good way. Tell a story, right? I like the one with the two kids and she’s a Christmas tree…guess what we’ll be doing this holiday season?
August 27th, 2009 at 6:58 am
Isn’t the point to some of these pics to be creepy? That was the whole idea so I guess it was a great photo since it got everyone talking! The toddler is precious and the pooch is adorable!!!
August 27th, 2009 at 12:37 pm
I have to say here that I REALLY appreciated the “warning”. I home school my children (no I don’t wear denim jumpers and I’m not a freak) and I absolutely LOVE photography and LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Christmas and Christmas lights and so do my children. If the disclaimer hadn’t been up, I would have NEVER anticipated seeing nudity and Christmas lights together. I would have gotten all excited and just started looking at them in front of my kids and because it was Christmas lights, they would have been glued to the screen with me. I think it’s sad that I have to watch everything first to make sure it’s appropriate, including something as simple and sweet as Christmas lights. And for the record, just because my values are different than yours doesn’t mean that I can’t enjoy the art of photography too or that I am hateful. I just disagree with you that nudity is art and don’t appreciate it showing up in places like this. I’m glad to see that I’m not the only one.
Some of the pics are cute, some make me very sad. Honestly, I figured there would be some people trying to look like they had hung themselves or something but never woulda guessed on nudity, that actually surprised me although in this day and age I guess it shouldn’t.
August 27th, 2009 at 12:41 pm
It’s interesting that some of the comments above suggest that people are over-reacting by having safety concerns.
Over 6 Australians die each year from Christmas light accidents.
Be careful folks!
August 28th, 2009 at 7:12 am
i like several of these pics. very artistic.
September 22nd, 2009 at 2:22 am
Thank God that beauty and creativity aren’t defined by one person. I’m not crazy about many of the shots, but so what? I applaud every one of the photographers for “thinking.” There is too little of that in the world today. I would rather look at a good photo demonstrating a unique perspective than an excellent photo of something I have seen a million times.
@ms. jones, “Christmas light accidents”? What is a Christmas light accident? That doesn’t say the lights are dangerous. It says that accidents happen and that people should make informed, prudent decisions, but the thing about accidents is that, generally, there’s no way to avoid them. They have a crazy way of sneaking up in the prepared and inundating those who dive in head first.
Which bring me back to my main point. Thanks for sharing these photos, which are evidence that there are still some people out there with the ability to think and a desire to be creative.
September 22nd, 2009 at 8:40 pm
@ejackson
When you mix electricity and people it can be very dangerous. (Dare I say) maybe these accidents are therefore less surprising and less ‘accidental’ than you suggest.
I’m simply saying not to be complacent but careful. That is all. Common sense?
October 22nd, 2009 at 7:14 am
I agree with the disturbing warning. This tends to lean too much towards bondage and torture. It takes away from what Christmas means — something I would celebrate as photography. IMO.
October 28th, 2009 at 4:42 pm
I would be most interested to know how these pepople were killed by christmas lights. I know of a municipal worker hanging lights from streetlamps and falling off the ladder. There are some people who use more power than a small nuclear power station can feed to make sure their house and garden can be seen from the international space station. I am sure there has been an incident or two there too. And most problems are due to faulty earth leakage switches on your mains board in the home. In which case a kettle can be far more of a danger than christmas lights.
But come on people – modern, well made (as opposed to very cheap and nasty imports) basic tree lights are really not dangerous if used correctly. If you are going to put your lights near children – tell them of the dangers and make them listen to you (what – your children don’t listen to you? your problem not mine, you sort them out…). They are just as dangerous to the kids on the tree as they are wrapped around them as they can still reach them and bite through the cable if they so will.
So do these things by all means, but be the responsible adult, tell the children what not to do, make sure your electricty supply in the house is not dangerous. Use new safe lights. These done together will be safer than walking accross the street in most towns.
As for the single nude shot – I do think that this post could have done without it, as it has certainly put some people off these posts by the looks of things (let other sites do this sort of thing – let make DPS safe in terms of nudity, but dangerous in terms of wrapping ourselves in electrical cables and throwing the switch). Well done for the disclaimer though. Maybe next time just that one should have been left out – the others are all worthy art in their own way. Nice pics to all the peoples behind the glass.
October 29th, 2009 at 6:41 am
“Maybe next time just that one should have been left out – the others are all worthy art in their own way.”
I hope you were not implying that art expressing nudity is not worthy art!
I thought it was tastefully done and truthfully I didn’t notice she was nude until I read the complaint about the nudity….
Holy desensitization Batman!
October 29th, 2009 at 7:09 am
Loved the comment above – I don’t think that these are any big deal. Honestly I’d be more afraid of my son being afraid of #3, and a lot of them are pretty strange, but honestly the nude ones are beautifully done. The baby is my favorite and the dog would look great on a Christmas card. To kind of prove a point, I just called my 4 year old out to look, he said, “whoa, he’s weird” on the 1st couple & but mostly thought it was pretty cool. The one that he disapproves of the most is the one of the man & woman kissing. (the fully clothed one “gross, Mom!”) He didn’t even notice the nude ones.
They’re just different photos, taken for different reasons. I think the variety of different types of shots from freaky to cute/funny Christmas card type photo to artistic is a good collection of different ways to use Christmas Lights (for whatever you can dream up pretty much). Which I’m pretty sure is the point of the lesson.
October 29th, 2009 at 5:51 pm
“I hope you were not implying that art expressing nudity is not worthy art!
”
Hey I think that even my toddler with his face covered in chocolate and meatballs is art… Yes you are quite right they are all art – to clarify what I meant was they are all great art (each one different in their own way as in some weird, some funny, some *apparently* dangerous).
I am so desensitized in most aspects of life – I am sure that the politically correct people have got a hit out in my name. But on this website I have enjoyed the non-worry factor for the whole family to see.
And how did you know my nickname was batman??? My wife usually calls me that when I am being politically incorrect in an inappropriate way (usually in public too).
November 19th, 2009 at 7:08 am
None of these photos appealed to me . Why call them Christmas lights? How about just
lighted people? They had absolutely nothing to do with Christmas!
November 28th, 2009 at 8:47 pm
@Linda: they’re called Christmas lights because they ARE christmas lights. As in the lights generally hung during christmas, not that they necessarily represent christmas.
I saw the thumbnail and really wanted to do this, and then saw the bandanna/tied to chair one and I’m a bit freaked out now.
December 11th, 2009 at 1:57 pm
I love these. I come back to them every year and I am now inspired to create my own. I love each picture!
December 15th, 2009 at 4:21 am
Artistic, awesome, and very cool. DIFFERENT is A GOOD THING people. I agree with whoever said “Get over yourselves”, mrsrobinson, and Sarah, et al….
Awesome post. Kudos to the photographers!
Happy Holidays, All!
December 24th, 2009 at 2:04 am
I like the photos–people get too PC on things, and this is one of them. Good job!
January 14th, 2010 at 3:25 am
As long as you exercise caution, as many have said, I don’t see anything wrong with using Christmas lights (or any lights, really) to light your subject.
As for the content of the photos, there are some good ones in this group and some not so good ones. I think the nude is done exceptionally well. I respect that some folks don’t care for nudes, but they are art all the same. Personally, I don’t care for the photos that, in my mind, lean towards bondage/fetishism but I respect that they art.
I agree with @ejacksonphotography in that these photos did require some thought and we are right to celebrate that! If a photo sparks a discussion then the photographer did something right.
Playing with light (whether natural or artificial) is exactly what makes photography so fun so we all should lighten up (get it?).
January 28th, 2010 at 1:27 am
Totally love the photos that you posted a warning about some people not finding it acceptable. They were ART!!!!! People, ART!!!! and great!
April 15th, 2010 at 10:26 pm
Are you sure??????
Just one small fault current and the model goes pop. Or, it the fault current is right, the model could fry big time.
Seems a little silly, dangerous and, well, the girl would look better on a park bench anyway.
David
July 29th, 2010 at 12:31 am
Ok, lighten up people, time to quit being so PC, we have politicians for that. Obviously no one was hurt, the photos are great and we learn a llittle more about our art. If you have used these lights and someone got hurt or “bit” you didn’t do your job of ensuring a safe work area. Time to move on…..
August 3rd, 2010 at 8:15 am
some viewers (readers) are disturbed….
August 16th, 2010 at 3:59 pm
One good photo, one not bad, the rest …. round filing cabinet!
August 17th, 2010 at 1:14 am
Some interesting comments overall… I love how we live in an open place and can all voice our opinions!!
Each of the photos evoke different thoughts and feelings for me… very cool!
September 30th, 2010 at 7:10 am
I didn’t see anything wrong with these, then after reading the comments i saw them in a different light… thanks for wrecking it guys! hehe
October 28th, 2010 at 5:10 am
our christmas lights this 2010 would be made up from light emitting diodes which does not generates so much heat,”"
November 9th, 2010 at 7:29 am
Humm, I didn’t see anything offensive at all. I see much worse on PG13 and Disney shows!!
I really like the one of the nude lady on the bead. It seems to be the most creative and artistic of the lot.
November 17th, 2010 at 8:49 pm
i had an idea with some christmas decs a few weeks ago and heres on of the images :
November 28th, 2010 at 3:44 am
I love the photos but I get frustrated when people neglect to post their camera settings..
December 4th, 2010 at 6:29 am
There is a danger in being shocked by the lights. They are, of course, powered by 120VAC, That being said 120VAC was picked as the power of choice because it is safer than many other power sources. Can it kill you? I have been shocked many times by 12VAC and I am not dead yet. Still living to see the photos on this site and enjoy them as someones art. Does it hurt – of course. Would not jump in the tub with all the cords wrapped around me. Might feel a bit of a tingle and trip a breaker.
The bulbs in the sting of lights are all wired in series and the voltage drop across each bulb my be all of about 6 volts. Unless you get shocked at the beginning of he string, you may not even feel it. Anywhere along the string except for the very ends of the string is VERY safe. Much safer than the bulbs we used in the 1960s where each bulb was powered by 120VAC
Lead is present in the coating of the wires if you read the little papers that come with the lights or the message on the box. This wire is copper and there may be some lead used to join the wires to to plugs. Unless you plan on chewing on the wires (not a god idea anyway) and wash your hands when finished handling he wires, then you should be okay.
I use “Christmas” lights in many of my outdoor lighting projects. They light the pathway to from my drive way to my front porch. (used Glass Star Bucks Coffee bottles). Better than the cheap Malibu lights they sell at the Depot. Small wine bottles light up my deck. Since the lights are wired in series, You can group 10 lights per bottle and daisy chain the bottles together to make really cool lighting fixtures. Never thought of putting the kids in the yard with the lights on them.. HUM!!! Might give that a try next. (just kidding for all you who are taking this way to serious). Enjoyed your pictures. And always looking for mores ideas for Christmas lights. Bob
December 11th, 2010 at 12:56 am
I found the photos interesting and even inspiring. Though the photo of the dog did not tickle me, but the dogs willingness’s to pose was very impressive. I have a Foxy and a Boerbull and they are well trained and behaved, but there is no way they will sit for me with lights.
December 16th, 2010 at 7:39 am
I liked them. I thought it was a creative way to use ordinary objects in a not so ordinary way. While art is an expression of ideas, emotions, perspectives, etc. I think that people should be more kind in their objectives to this work. We all come here to learn and to feed off of others creative outlets, NOT to place judgment on what is appropriate, safe, or tasetful. All art outlets have been rediculed by the narrow minded for centuries. The last thing that one artist (and most of us are purly amatures any way) is to ridicule and insult another artist work. We all have the right to our opinions, but please, be tasetful about it.
December 23rd, 2010 at 2:40 am
Great pictures! I’m gonna do one. I love em.
December 23rd, 2010 at 3:08 am
I did something similar last year, mine was meant to depict the slight (ha, “slight!”) frustration I deal with when trying to string lights around the tree or window.
Other than having them get a bit warm by the time I took my last shot, no harm done!
I really like the one with the couple kissing, I might try a similar shot if I can convince my husband to stand around while I fiddle with camera settings!
December 23rd, 2010 at 3:17 am
most of these are horrible! i loved the one of the two kids (boy/girl) that was cute. and the one of the dog too..but that’s all. the rest, I cringed.
December 23rd, 2010 at 3:32 am
OH that poor puppy….lol. Great shots. Had planned to do a few time exposures tonight. Happy and safe shooting!!!
December 23rd, 2010 at 3:57 am
These are cool! I love using weird light sources. I did one of these last year:
December 23rd, 2010 at 4:08 am
Nice shots, and while there are always exceptions, photos featuring Christmas tree lights as a pictorial device, tend to be a “cheap shots.” That sort of cliche is difficult to transcend.
December 23rd, 2010 at 4:24 am
The first image is my favorite. Extremely beautiful and elegant. Well done.
December 23rd, 2010 at 5:15 am
The first one I like but some of them scream “bondage” to me. Ummm yeah when I see Christmas lights I want to see happiness and joy and fun and all that great stuff! Thumbs up for creativity!
Some of these lights could be battery operated. If you’re an older person then we all survived the days of unspeakable amounts of lead in toys and stuff so the comments about lead are just crazy.
December 23rd, 2010 at 8:11 am
Cool shots!
December 23rd, 2010 at 10:51 am
For those that are upset with the content, go start your own website on photography, set your own standards, and stay there. You will put your risk to zero.
December 23rd, 2010 at 5:30 pm
These are really cool! Very creative, I definitely want to try some before the Holiday Season is over with. Thanks for the inspiration!
December 23rd, 2010 at 7:38 pm
yeah nudity is so bad for children.. let them watch TV and see people killing other people.
you americans are a so sick. i have no words for such bigot and ingorant folks.
December 23rd, 2010 at 10:00 pm
My favorite shot is of the baby with the lighted presents on string. Beautifully taken
December 23rd, 2010 at 11:07 pm
Very inspirational, great pics and a good idea.
December 24th, 2010 at 12:30 am
I like the idea of wrapping with lights, but I think some of these are poor examples of it — and it’s not the nudity that’s bothering me — I think the one of the woman in bed is fantastic. I’ve just think some of them are not up to gallery quality, and some of those that aren’t up to gallery quality are of questionable content, so why; bother including them?
Lars — many of the people who complain about this are complaining about the bondage, not the nudity, and whether it’s bondage or nudity, how do you know these people allow their kids to “watch tv and see people killing other people”? Watch who you’re calling sick.
December 24th, 2010 at 12:40 am
ha ha these responses are so funny! IMO, not that anyone cares I am sure, the first one is decent, the rest were just not for me but they me be for someone else, so who really gives a s%$t. But, it is good to read all the comments too. It would be so boring if we all thought the same way. I feel most insulted by the ‘portrait professional’ advert in the middle making people look like CGI instead of real humans ha ha ha Happy Xmas (or is that Christmas?)!!! Love and Peace!
December 24th, 2010 at 1:30 am
The comments on this still crack me up!
The photos themselves are hit and miss for me.
We (boyfriend and I) did something similar last year (I’m the “model”): http://www.flickr.com/photos/jeffhuangphoto/5208427778/
My only complaint? The lights get hot. Very hot. So by the end of the shoot, parts of me needed aloe. Otherwise it was good fun
December 24th, 2010 at 2:08 am
I don’t like any of the photos. I don’t find them imaginative, artistic or good. Sorry, JMO.
December 24th, 2010 at 2:15 am
I realize that photography is a subjective thing, but I just don’t find these pictures all that compelling. A few of them are nice, but most of them just seem odd to me.
I do like the one with the little guy in the Santa hat and the gift lights.
December 24th, 2010 at 2:16 am
The one thing that was missing was technical info on what colour temperature are Christmas lights usually at?Do you set it at the florescent light setting or what?
December 24th, 2010 at 2:18 am
Sadly there seem to be a few people on this that need to get a life! The world has gone mad with political correctness and health and safety paranoia.
No-one has done or suggested anything dangerous so let it go and enjoy the festive season.
Happy Christmas to all of you who are not too afraid to enjoy life!!
December 24th, 2010 at 2:24 am
If you don’t have anything nice to say, then don’t say anything at all. I definately will use the kissing photo above in my next engagement session.
December 24th, 2010 at 2:27 am
Very interesting pics. I’m the type of photographer who doesn’t want to shoot the same things everyone else is shooting. I’m immediately bored when people say that the pics are dangerous or creepy (as a pejorative). Pics that make people think, that have impact, that promote discussion are good for this photographer’s soul.
I rather like the idea of draping a small child in christmas lights and have them chewing on the cord and playing with sissors while soaking in a tub full of water. I’d entitle it “Dangers of Christmas.” — maybe add in a glass of wine on the ledge of the bathtub…
December 24th, 2010 at 2:54 am
I love the photo of the baby with the gift box lights. Soo adorable!
December 24th, 2010 at 4:08 am
I think the majority of these are excellent. One thing I might add, though, is that in the shot with the two little girls….and BTW, I love the expressions on their faces……the way the lights reflect make it appear that the child on the right is somewhat scantily clad from the waist down. While this is very probably simply because of the way the lights reflect, you might want to pull that one, particularly in light of some of the posts I am reading.
December 24th, 2010 at 4:49 am
Thought the girl in black dress tied up and bandage over her eyes in VERY POOR TASTE.
December 24th, 2010 at 5:06 am
So some of you find some of these pics shocking Huh? (Pun intended).
There are plenty of 12v versions available to enable safe experimentation.
Just a thought.
December 24th, 2010 at 8:52 am
When I read an article here and the photos are not to my liking… I move on to the next one. I don’t feel the need to impose my taste on anyone,usually if i don’t have something nice to say, I don’t say anything at all…
December 24th, 2010 at 9:30 am
I do not usually like gimmicks like this, but I think it is a really creative and effective lighting technique. Since I am photographing a wedding ( http://jasoncollinphotography.com/wedding ) the day after Christmas, I will definitely suggest to the bride and groom we give this a try.
Thanks for the inspiring post.
December 24th, 2010 at 9:42 am
Geeze people. Where do you see in any of these photos that the lights are plugged into the 120v power? How do you know that they aren’t battery operated lights? I have many strings of Christmas lights that run on a single 9v toy battery.
December 24th, 2010 at 10:00 am
Don’t you have these lights in your hands when you put them on the tree? Do you get shocked then? Do you suffer from lead exposure when you tape them/staple them/hang them from clips? And who is anyone to say that nudity is offensive or ugly? (You were born that way . . . ) And, in the Christian belief, the first man and woman were NOT created with clothes on. So – as previously stated – get over yourselves, look at the pictures (or don’t!!!) for their creative content, and let them amuse/amaze/stir you as they may. (Sheesh!)
December 24th, 2010 at 12:10 pm
Loved the pics and the ideas! Shocked to see the concern from so many people! Motivated me to do one with a star filter…wouldn’t that be cool? Thanks for sharing!
December 24th, 2010 at 12:13 pm
I love the idea, I have used lights in portraits before, but have never put them on my children since learning about the high level of lead that is STILL in christmas lights. For those of you who don’t believe it, read the box. I couldn’t find a single set without lead.
Here is an article for all you non-believers in the dangers of lead: http://articles.cnn.com/2007-12-10/health/christmas.lights_1_christmas-lights-light-sets-high-levels?_s=PM:HEALTH
If you want to risk yourself, I could care less, but please don’t expose your children. Or at least wash their hands after.
December 24th, 2010 at 5:34 pm
The idea of using such lights is really very innovative and useful. I respect everybody’s view and reservations; it is entirely an individual perception. Thanks DPS for such simple and useful ideas.
December 25th, 2010 at 12:47 am
I already commented I liked this post because it was a pretty cool idea, for a gimmick.
However, I now find this to be an extraordinarily lazy post, and something I think a major photo site like dPS should stop doing.
Why?
Because it is great and all to see these photos as inspiration. But since this site bills itself as a SCHOOL, how can it put up a post with zero how-to instructions? At the very least there should be the minimum exif data under each shot: aperture ISO WB shutter speed plus camera and lens used, and if the camera was tripod mounted, using a cable release, etc
So while this post may give everyone good ideas to try, it fails to instruct them how to go about doing it.
Even on my own minor photography site, I always put exif data under photos and explain my lighting setup (if there is one).
About the content of the photos themselves….they do seem to cover too much of a range, I would have opted to use only cheerful shots this close to Christmas.
December 28th, 2010 at 7:23 am
UPDATE:
I suggested these style of photographs to my wedding clients yesterday and they really liked the look of them. Here is the result I was able to make in this wedding portrait:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/jasoncollin/5295157212/
It was shot in the family living room, I used a tripod and cable release, and had the couple try and stand as absolutely still as possible!
December 28th, 2010 at 11:21 am
I thought the nude wrapped in star lights was the best. The two kids is a close second. Cute that one decorated the other like a Christmas tree. Something my kids would have done, if the lights weren’t so hot back then.
Love the last one.. got all tangled up trying to decorate the tree. It’s just a given.
The girl in the 3rd photo looks like she’s constipated or going to lay an egg.
Others are mediocre.
January 1st, 2011 at 7:25 pm
I agree that some of the shots are mediocre in terms of composition etc, but I’m staggered by some of the comments over the years. “Jenneifer”…OMG. You expected to see pics of people hanging themselves, but were then “surprised” by the nudity (is there any actual nudity in these photos?). I can’t believe people like you ever go outside (oops, do you go outside?). I feel sad for your isolated children. (I know her comment was a couple years ago, but it’s the one that stands out in my mind)
And Jason, just above… demanding exif data etc? Geez…arent you a photographer? Anybody with the most basic of skills can tell what sort of settings would need to be used. Even if they can’t figure it out…they can experiment. “Cheerful shots” only? Good grief.
Good on you DPS for putting these photos up (there are millions morelike them on flickr), but good luck in the future. Better not show any nudity, even implied, or anything vaguely dangerous or anything that even LOOKS vaguely dangerous or anything with children, or animals. Oh, or anything “artistic”. Or anything that may be interpreted as bondgae. Oh, or anything using electricity (because all the nerdy know-it-alls will tut tut at you). Umm…what else should you ban? Could be a long list.
Perhaps you could write an article on censorship in the 21st century. (Actually, I might write one)
January 3rd, 2011 at 6:11 pm
These are all really cool! I loved them especially the 18th, the child with legs tight together, arms apart, and great smile. Although if you had just moved him over a tad, you would have covered the outlet. And thus creating the though of the light radiating from his body being completely natural. It was still among my favorites though!
January 7th, 2011 at 2:04 am
I think these shots are great! A great way to use christmas lights! I see no dangerous or offensive images at all. After all ,it is a photo site creativity and art go hand and hand.
January 18th, 2011 at 4:45 pm
Very imagnative….I love looking at other peoples photos (bizare or not) I also love reading other peoples comments (good or not so good). It give me ideas for my own photography and insites into other people. I agree I love the kids with the big grins (no18).
May 25th, 2011 at 12:55 am
These are great, the way the photos are thought out and created, nice one
June 18th, 2011 at 4:24 am
Although I like alot of them. Some kindof bug me. I get what some of u were saying about the bondage and nudity. But it didn’t really SHOW anything, ya know? And yeah I get how people would e worried about their children being exposed to lead. But come on guyz! Live a little! It’s art! I’m glad that there are people out there that are still concerned. But you know…maybe….people should like…smell the roses? Lol idk. In otherwords, don’t worry so much and enjoi the art!
July 17th, 2011 at 6:36 am
I don’t find these photos disturbing – just tasteless
July 28th, 2011 at 2:58 am
One or two maybe a bit out there for my taste, but I love the idea! I have don’t this before with families and it is a cute, fun idea that changes up the typical Christmas Family Portrait.
Some of the older strands of lights do get a little hot, so I suggest using newer ones and keep an eye on them, to make sure you don’t burn any children.
You can not get harmed by led unless you consume massive amounts, then it just lowers your IQ. If your licking the cords, it probably isn’t all that high to being with!
November 1st, 2011 at 10:39 am
Hi everyone! I’m not a photographer by any definition of the word but I love to shoot with my lil Nikon P6000. Every year at my huge family Christmas party we do family portraits and I would LOVE to do this style of photo this year.
Could anyone on here tell me how I can set up my little camera to take these shots? It’s not a DLSR but it does have many of the settings options. I would appreciate any help!
Thanks!
November 27th, 2011 at 1:21 am
Interesting comments from all, however, if these had been presented in July I’m betingt there would have been fewer negative comments. If your are concerned about your model being shocked use a set of lights that operate on low voltage DC. They can be purchased at just about all the big box stores. (The ones used in these pics all run on AC 120 volts which won’t kill you unless your in a tub of water or have a pace maker.)
You could also plug them into a power strip that has a built in breaker. If there was a short the breaker trips and power is cut to the light. This is similar to the recepticles found in most bathrooms and next to kithen sinks. If fact use that as your power source and get the added protection.
Some of these lights do get a little warm/hot and unless you plan to use low voltage lights I wouldn’t use animals or kids as my photo subjects,,….just a precaution.
On the positive side, I think it’s a pretty neat idea and plan to try out some pics with my grown kids and girl friend. Mery Christmas all!
December 4th, 2011 at 9:28 pm
I personally thought they were very beautiful …I liked the black and white shot in bed…very peaceful …I think it is very imaginative …and not harmful …Good Job ..enjoyed looking at your pictures, and your interpetation of “lighting”
December 7th, 2011 at 7:53 pm
Nice Photos… Really like it… Have some Christmas tree suggestions at http://websmine.com/design/template/christmas-tree-decorating-ideas-and-suggestions/
Thanks for sharing…!!!
December 9th, 2011 at 1:55 am
I was looking for Christmas card photo ideas for my kids and came across this website. I thought these images were great! Not for everyone but I appreciated them. I’m thinking of doing a family friendly version with my children for our card this year. Great work!
December 20th, 2011 at 12:24 am
Christmas lights are a great source of inspirations for photographers as you can ply with a selection of different color bulbs or shapes. The effect is pretty striking on some of those pictures.
January 10th, 2012 at 2:19 am
I don’t see the point of the content. It’s good photography, but the relationship to Christmas is doubtful. Soooo they are liights, so what! These lights are used for a lot of different things all year long. Why Christmas?
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