Photography and Fireworks

Some photo tips to capture fireworks

July 4th in the United States is a day of celebration of the birth of our nation.

Many place have fireworks displays.

If you have a chance to see the fireworks live, it is a fantastic experience.

I would like to give some suggestions if you would like to capture the fireworks display that you are enjoying.


Photo Tips

• First get to a good spot to watch the fireworks.
• Once there, set up a monopod or a tripod to help you capture the images. I use a monopod which becomes a tripod with my legs. The monopod allows greater flexibility while giving the necessary support
• Use a lens that is a 24mm > 80mm lens
• Use manual settings on your camera
• Chose an f stop between f8 and f13
• Use the B or Bulb setting on your camera.
• Use manual focus - during the first fireworks display focus your camera or set it to infinity and then backoff infinity just a bit.
• Determine whether you want the vertical image with the firework trails or whether you want a horizontal close up of the fireworks display
• My preference is for a close up of the fireworks display
• If you want the trails, press your shutter button as soon as the fireworks launches and hold the button down until the fireworks is at it's maximum display
• If you want a closeup of the fireworks display, wait until the display explodes in the sky - press the shutter button just before  it explodes and hold the shutter button until just before it begins to fade.

In addition to your camera gear, I would strongly suggest:

• Bring a flashlight
• Bring some snacks
• Bring your own bottle of water = remember, you'll be waiting 4-5 hours before the fireworks starts
• bring a light jacket 
• use sunscreen or wear clothing and hat to protect you from the sun while you wait
• locate the comfort rooms on your way into the site.

Most of all relax and enjoy the beauty of the displays that you will see.

Have fun. Enjoy the show.