How to Photograph Fireworks

by Kristy Korcz 0

Planning on staking out the perfect patch of grass to take in this week's Fourth of July pyrotechnic show? Be sure to pack your camera before you head out! It's not hard to capture great moments, but you'll have to be ready for everything, so heed these simple tips for awesome fireworks photography.

Find a good position

Tree branches, street lamps, tall buildings, and fireworks don't mix, so be sure to find a good location. You probably won't be moving around, so search for a position where buildings and people won't obstruct your view.

Hold the camera extra steady

To avoid blurry pictures, brace your camera on a railing, the back of a chair or a table, or against a column or tree. This helps keep the camera from moving and blurring the pictures. Or use a pocket or full-size tripod that will attach to anything, like the GorillaPod.

Take lots of pictures

This one may seem silly, but we all know it's hard to estimate how long the fireworks will keep bursting. You'll want to try to catch the bursts at their maximum bloom. So keep snappin' away to make sure you go home with pictures to treasure. Also, if you know your camera is a little slow, try to anticipate a bit and snap a little early.

Try some light trails

If you want to experiment during the firework show, try shooting some light trails! Whether you're capturing the crowds as you wait, the cars as they leave, or the fireworks themselves, now's the time to try everything — you never know what you might end up with!

Source: Flickr User bayasaa