In this concise guide we'll teach you how to photograph fireworks easily, detailing the right gear, settings, and timing, allowing you to translate a sky bursting with color into photos that pop. Be ready to dive in and leave the guesswork behind.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT GEAR FOR FIREWORKS PHOTOGRAPHY
When you set out to capture fireworks, the first step is arming yourself with the right tools for the job.
The camera you choose has a big impact on the success of your final images. DSLRs and mirrorless cameras are best as they offer the flexibility of interchangeable lenses. These types of cameras allow for precise control and adjustment of settings, essential for capturing the vibrant colors and dynamic movement of fireworks.
A common photographers challenge faced by during fireworks displays is the unexpected drain on their camera batteries. Long exposures, especially those needed for fireworks photography, can quickly deplete your battery. Hence, keeping a stash of extra batteries close by is a smart move. This is especially true if you're using a DSLR camera, where using Live View can consume more power.
Another key piece of gear is memory cards. Imagine being in the middle of a spectacular fireworks display and running out of storage space! To avoid this, make sure to carry memory cards with sufficient storage capacity, or enough storage space left on them.
This way, you can focus on capturing stunning fireworks images without worrying about running out of space at the most critical moments.
SELECTING YOUR LENS
When it comes to fireworks photography, the lens you choose can drastically influence your results.
A wide-angle lens, for instance, allows you to capture most of the fireworks explosions. This enables you to include more sky and perspective in the composition, adding a sense of scale and grandeur to your images.
This story is from the Issue 139 edition of Photography Masterclass Magazine.
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This story is from the Issue 139 edition of Photography Masterclass Magazine.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
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