Shooting Fireworks
Seven tips to help you make your next photography the best yet. Simple tip from Photographing fireworks: "Find a good position. Tree branches 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."
Top Tips for Photographing Fireworks advise: "As when shooting sunsets and other panoramic views, it's often a good idea to include interesting, recognizable objects in your photo. A well-lit building or monument under a cascading burst of fireworks can send your picture far above the competition."
Richard Strauss quoted in Shooting Fireworks: Capture The Spectacle recommends "Find out which way the wind is blowing and get upwind. Fireworks create smoke and if the wind blows it towards your position it not only blocks the shot but makes it uncomfortable to shoot. From the right position you can use the smoke to your advantage. As the fireworks program builds, the smoke reflects light and can help define the shot."
Andrzej Wrotniak explains in What's so different about fireworks?: "The whole glory of a firework show is due to their movement against the dark sky. Freezing it with a fast shutter takes all this effect away. You need a long-time exposure to show it."
Here's a tip from Shooting Fireworks with a Digital Camera by Jim Barthman: "Always use a tripod. Long exposure times require camera support to ensure sharp exposures. Whether you're using film or a digital camera, bring a sturdy tripod."
Michael R. Tomkins adds "If your camera has a remote shutter release, use it! Even tripod mounted, you're likely going to shake the camera a little when you press the shutter button - a cabled shutter release or better still an infra-red one will eliminate this possibility." (July 4th fireworks tips)
Ian Burley gives Quick tips for great firework pictures: "Framing. You won't know exactly where rockets will burst so you will need to anticipate and, if possible, follow the trail of the rocket as it's launched. It's best to start off with a wide zoom setting and gradually zoom in as you gain confidence in guessing where rockets go. Anticipation is also required when triggering the shutter release. If your camera has a continuous shooting facility, you may wish to use it to record a burst of shots in one go." For more tips, see How to Photograph Fireworks