Fourth of July

The 4th is just around the corner, so its time for the obligatory fireworks photo, and a few tips.  This is one of my favorites from a couple of years ago. Great fireworks images share many of the same techniques as other low light photography subjects.  Equipment basics include: SLR camera, sturdy tripod, and a cable/electronic remote shutter release.  A medium range zoom lens is also helpful, and allows you to change composition as the show progresses.  Point and shoot digital cameras can also be used, but most have limitations on shutter control, and the sensors are typically very noisy which makes post processing more work.

To get the most dramatic shots, I like to get as close to the action as possible.  This makes getting a pleasing composition a little more difficult, but the results are more engaging in my opinion.  Setup your camera with a wide angle setting to start and narrow the framing as the show progresses.  I like to use the lowest ISO setting as possible to limit noise in the dark areas of the image and an f-stop of  F8 as a starting point (use you camera’s manual setting.)  The exact setting isn’t critical, fireworks are bright.  You can open the f-stop up (smaller number) to let more light in if necessary.  Setup your cable/electronic release so you can manually control when the shutter opens and closes.  I like to to hold the shutter open for several bursts of fireworks to get a dramatic shot.  If you hold it open for too long the photo will be cluttered, too short and it lacks drama. It’s all a matter of preference, experiment!  Make sure you adjust your composition to fill up the frame as much as possible.  You’ll have plenty of time to take 20-50 shots at a typical show.  If you are lucky enough to have a show start with residual light in the sky, take advantage, the blue/purple sky adds extra depth and impact.  Don’t forget to enjoy the show!