Introduction
Fireworks are a summer tradition and a beautiful light show loved by many. However, photographing fireworks can be difficult for beginners. In this article, we will explain in detail the basic settings and steps required for shooting fireworks, and help you take great fireworks photos.
1. Equipment needed
1.1. Camera
SLR or mirrorless camera
These cameras have interchangeable lenses, so they can be used in a variety of shooting conditions. They also have manual settings, so you can freely adjust ISO sensitivity, shutter speed, F-stop, etc., making them ideal for shooting fireworks.
The Canon EOS Kiss series and Sony α series are models that are easy to use even for beginners.
Compact digital camera
It is easier to use than SLR or mirrorless cameras, but the settings are limited. However, if you have a night view mode or bulb mode, you can also shoot fireworks.
The Canon PowerShot series and Sony RX series are popular.
1.2. Lens
Standard zoom lens (e.g. 24-70mm)
It covers a wide range of focal lengths and can shoot from close to long distances, so you can adjust the angle of view to match the size of the fireworks.
Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM, Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR, etc.
Telephoto lens (e.g. 70-200mm)
It can take large shots of distant fireworks, so it is particularly useful when there are a lot of spectators or when the fireworks are far from the launch site.
Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM, Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR, etc.
1.3. Tripod
Highly stable tripod
Fireworks photography often requires long exposures, so a tripod is essential to prevent camera shake. Choose one that can be firmly fixed, especially on windy days.
Manfrotto and Gitzo tripods are popular. Aluminum and carbon tripods are particularly light and easy to carry.
1.4. Remote Shutter
Wireless remote shutter
Helps prevent camera shake when pressing the shutter. Especially when taking long exposure shots, you can take pictures without touching the camera with your hands, which reduces the cause of camera shake.
Remote shutters are available from Canon and Nikon as well as generic types that can be purchased from Amazon, etc.
1.5. Battery and memory card
Extra battery
Fireworks displays often require long shooting times, so you may be worried about running out of battery. Be sure to bring extra batteries.
Genuine products are safer, but compatible products are also an option. (At your own risk)
Large capacity memory card
A large capacity memory card is required to take many high-quality photos. A large capacity is essential, especially when shooting in RAW format.
SanDisk or Lexar SD cards (32GB or more) are recommended.
1.6. Other items
ND filter
Used to open the aperture and blur the background when photographing bright fireworks. This is especially useful at dusk.
Lee Filters and B+W Natural ND filters are popular.
Camera Bag
This is an essential item for carrying your equipment safely. If you choose one with a waterproof function, you can protect your equipment from sudden rain.
Lowepro and Peak Design camera bags are popular.
Summary of necessary equipment
When shooting fireworks, you will get better results if you have all of these items. In particular, a tripod and a remote shutter are items that are often forgotten, but they are essential to prevent camera shake and long exposure. Please try taking beautiful fireworks with these items.
2. Basic Settings
2.1. ISO Sensitivity
Setting Value:
We recommend setting it between 100 and 400.
Reason:
ISO sensitivity indicates how sensitive the camera sensor is to light. The lower the value (ISO 100-400), the higher quality the image will be with less noise. Fireworks are often photographed at night, so it is important to capture the light well. If the ISO setting is too high (for example, 800 or higher), the image will be noisy and details will be blurred. Therefore, keep the ISO as low as possible and adjust it with the shutter speed and F-stop.
2.2. Shutter Speed
Setting Value:
Adjust in bulb mode or in the range of 1/4 to 1 second.
Reason:
Shutter speed is very important to capture the explosive moment of fireworks. In bulb mode, the shutter can be opened and closed as needed. It can leave a long trail of fireworks, and is also effective when launching multiple fireworks at the same time. In general, a range of 1/4 to 1 second is good, but adjustment is required depending on the brightness and movement of the subject.
2.3. F-number (aperture)
Setting value:
F8 to F16 is ideal.
Reason:
F-number represents the aperture of the lens and affects the depth of field (range of focus). A small F-number (wide open) will blur the background, and a large F-number (closed) will widen the range of focus. For bright subjects like fireworks, setting F8 to F16 will allow you to capture the details of the fireworks clearly while moderately blurring the background. This setting will highlight the beauty of the fireworks.
2.4. White balance
Setting value:
**”Cloudy” or “Shadow”** is recommended.
Reason:
White balance is important for adjusting the color temperature of the image and faithfully reproducing the colors of fireworks. Fireworks in particular have a variety of colors, so if you select the appropriate white balance, the colors of the fireworks will look more vivid. Selecting cloudy or shadow will emphasize warm colors and beautifully express the colors of the fireworks.
2.5. Focus
Setting method:
It is recommended to use manual focus.
Reason:
When shooting fireworks, autofocus may not work. The camera may have difficulty focusing, especially when the surroundings are dark. By switching to manual focus, you can focus on the fireworks in advance and shoot smoothly. Set the optimal focus before the bright fireworks are launched.
2.6. Continuous shooting mode
How to set up:
Select the continuous shooting mode.
Reason:
The moment of fireworks is very short, so using the continuous shooting mode allows you to capture beautiful moments without missing them. The continuous shooting mode is especially useful when fireworks are launched continuously or when a special performance is held. After shooting continuously, you can choose the best shot later.
Summary
The above is an overview of the basic settings for shooting fireworks. By fully understanding and practicing these settings, you can take beautiful fireworks photos. In particular, adjusting the ISO sensitivity, shutter speed, and F-stop is important, and by combining these appropriately, you can aim for the best shot. The next time you go to a fireworks festival, remember these settings and try them out.
3. Shooting procedure
3.1. Preparation before shooting
Preparing the equipment:
- Camera:
A full-frame or APS-C sensor digital SLR or mirrorless camera is ideal.
- Tripod:
A stable tripod is necessary to prevent camera shake and support long exposures.
- Remote shutter:
Pressing the shutter manually will result in blurry images. Using a remote shutter will give you clearer images.
- Lens:
Select a lens that suits your purpose, such as a telephoto lens (70mm or more) or a wide-angle lens (24mm or less). In general, a standard zoom lens (such as 24-70mm) is useful.
- Filter:
ND filters allow you to control excess light and adjust the shutter speed.
Check location:
Check the location of the fireworks display you will be shooting in advance and understand the distance from the launch site and large crowds. If you can shoot from a high position, you will get a good angle.
Simulation:
Find out the time of the fireworks launch in advance and check the weather and surrounding brightness. If necessary, you can refer to other photographers or past fireworks festival photos.
3.2. Check your shooting settings
ISO sensitivity:
Setting: Set to ISO100-400. Adjust according to the situation.
Shutter speed:
Setting: Set to bulb mode or 1/4-1 second. Adjust according to the brightness of the fireworks if necessary.
F-stop (aperture value):
Setting: Set to F8-F16. Adjust the aperture to expand the focus range.
White balance:
Setting: Select cloudy or shadow to reproduce the color of the fireworks more beautifully.
Focus:
Setting: Switch to manual focus and focus on the launch site.
Continuous shooting mode:
Setting: Select continuous shooting mode so you don’t miss the moment.
3.3. Shooting flow
Decide the position:
Find the place where you will launch the fireworks and stand in a position where there is nothing obstructing your view. Shoot at the angle you have decided in advance to decide the composition.
Test Shooting:
Before the fireworks go off, take a test shot to check whether the ambient light and camera settings are appropriate. At this stage, adjust the settings if necessary.
Start shooting:
When the fireworks go off, release the shutter in burst mode. If you select bulb mode, open the shutter according to the movement of the fireworks and close it at the appropriate time.
Be conscious of the composition:
While capturing the moment when the fireworks go off, adjust the composition while considering the balance with the surrounding scenery. For example, you can add depth to your work by including the light on the ground and people around you in the frame.
Take a break:
When continuing to shoot, it is important to step away from the camera from time to time and enjoy the surrounding scenery and atmosphere. Enjoying this moment will help you in your next shoot.
Check after shooting:
After the fireworks are over, review the photos you have taken and reflect on the settings and composition. Recording what went well and what needs improvement will help you in your next shoot.
Summary
Following these steps will help you shoot fireworks smoothly. Even if it is your first time shooting fireworks, you can capture a beautiful moment with the right preparation and settings. Be confident and take some amazing, memorable photos.
4. Common mistakes and how to solve them
4.1. Inappropriate shutter speed
Failure example:
Fireworks may be too bright and overexposed, or too dark and invisible. This often happens when the shutter speed is not set properly.
Solution:
Pre-test:
Check the surrounding light conditions and take a test shot before shooting fireworks. This will allow you to set the shutter speed according to the color and brightness of the fireworks.
Using bulb mode:
Depending on the pattern of the fireworks, you can use bulb mode to open the shutter as much as you need, which gives you more flexibility.
4.2. Out of focus
Failure example:
When trying to capture the moment of fireworks, the fireworks may be blurred as a result of focusing with autofocus.
Solution:
Manual focus:
Focus on the area where the fireworks will go up, and then switch to manual focus. This will prevent the focus from shifting during shooting.
Pre-setting:
After pre-setting the focus, shoot in a stable position without moving the camera.
4.3. Bad composition
Failure example:
Sometimes only the fireworks are captured on screen, cutting out the surrounding environment and scenery. This makes the photo monotonous and static.
Solution:
Composition:
Frame not only the fireworks, but also the surrounding elements (buildings, spectators, scenery, etc.) to give the photo depth and story.
Shoot from multiple angles:
Plan several compositions in advance and shoot from different angles. This will give you more options later.
4.4. Running out of battery
Failure example:
If you miss the climax of the fireworks display, your battery will run out. If you shoot for a long time, your battery will run out quickly.
Solution:
Bring extra batteries:
Make sure the battery is fully charged before shooting, and it is recommended to bring extra batteries with you.
Use Eco mode:
When you are not shooting, turn off the camera or switch to Eco mode to reduce battery consumption.
4.5. Setting mistakes
Failure example:
Forgetting to change the ISO or F-stop during shooting can result in blurry photos or unexpected results.
Solution:
Check your settings:
Check your settings before shooting and adjust them to suit your environment. ISO, shutter speed, and F-stop are especially important.
Take notes:
Record your settings after shooting so you can use them next time. It’s a good idea to take notes on settings that worked particularly well.
5. Summary
Fireworks photography is a fascinating art of capturing beautiful moments. However, beginners are prone to make mistakes and need to consider various factors. By referring to the above failure examples and countermeasures, you can try it with confidence and take better photos.
Don’t be afraid of failure, try fireworks and have fun. Nothing beats the excitement of success. I hope that your fireworks photos will remain in your mind as wonderful memories.
Disclaimer etc.
While we have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information provided on this website, we do not guarantee its completeness or reliability. If you act on the basis of the information, you do so at your own risk.
“The site operator is not liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, special or consequential damages arising from the use of this website.
The information on the shooting locations may be incorrect, and there are some locations where photography is already prohibited. If you visit based on this blog, please do sufficient research beforehand.
Unauthorized reproduction of texts and images published on the blog is prohibited.
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