The camera’s shutter speed should be set to 1/500 seconds or faster. This setting will allow the camera to freeze movement without blurring the subject or background. It may take several jumps to capture a person “levitating” in the exact pose that the photographer wants. Since this type of photography is so difficult to get, it can take as long as an hour just to get one shot. Ask the object of the photograph to jump up and down several times. Every time the subject jumps, the photographer should snap a photo when she’s in mid-air.
Position the subject in front of an interesting background or backdrop, either real or fake. Choose one that will make a levitation photo all the more interesting. For example, set up the shot so that the subject appears to be jumping over the ocean or hovering above a catastrophe.
A fan can add even more movement to a levitation photo. Aim the fan at the subject’s head, which will cause their hair to blow around. Aiming the fan at the subject’s body will cause their clothing to adhere to them in different ways. Shoot the subject in different positions. The subject of the photo can keep their legs straight or spread them apart as they’re jumping. They can also try out different positions with their arms. The photographer can also ask the subject of the photo to reach down as they’re jumping. They can pretend to be grabbing something below their feet. This mixes two different, contradictory actions.
A vintage photograph with someone levitating will make for an eery, old fashioned portrait. This type of shot works best if the levitating subject is more creepy than fantasy-like. Props and makeup will help to create a truly vintage photograph Also, Photoshop or another photo editing tool can be used to make the picture appear more vintage by altering color and finish.
Place a mattress underneath where the subject will be jumping. This will ensure that the subject is safe should they fall by accident and it will also allow for more interesting positions. For example, the subject could jump off of a higher surface to be captured high in the air and safely land on the mattress, which can later be cut out of the photo.