Prepare basement walls to prevent over spray by taping at least one sheet of newspaper around the entire perimeter of the basement.
Cover any appliances, like washers and dryers, with plastic sheathing and turn off the furnace and hot water heater before covering them.
Using an electric paint sprayer, apply paint to the basement ceiling by keeping the sprayer at least 12 to 15 inches from joist and duct work, while using smooth and even strokes. Make sure to read the owner's manual to get the best result for your particular sprayer model.
Use a paintbrush to get to hard to reach areas and around duct work.