How to Photograph Fireworks
by Steven Sawusch
Well, it is that time of year again when the grills get fired up, people get together and fireworks get set off. Many people try to photograph some of the fireworks and have great success while others do not. To help everyone get closer to that perfect shot, we will quickly go over some camera settings that will get you in the ballpark of getting the shot.
First, you will need a tripod (a remote is also suggested but not required). With the longer exposure that we will be using as our starting point, there will be almost no way to hand hold the camera and not get blur. Second, set your camera to manual mode and input the settings of ISO 400, F/5.6 and 1 second. Once the fireworks start, take a quick test shot and see how it turned out. If it is too blown out, try dropping the ISO down a little to 320, 250 or 200. If the image is still blown out too much, try moving your aperture to 6.3, 7.1 or 8. If it is still blown out after changing the aperture, start to increase your shutter speed to .8, .6, or .5 seconds.
Most of the time including a building or other object/structure into your composition will vastly enhance the image. If you decide to include an object/structure like a building, expose for the building while trying to keep a longer shutter speed.
Have a great 4th of July and go get the perfect shot.