Any tips on photographing fireworks?

Question

I have a Nikon D100, tripod and a semi-dark location to shoot from. Any tips on catching that perfect shot?

Answer 1

First you need to find a very dark spot to shoot from. Get a cable release cord. Set up your tripod, and your camera, aim and focus your shot. Then use a black peice of paper and hold it in front of your lense. Push down the shutter and hold down with the cable release. When a firework goes off, quickly move the black peice of paper away from the lens. When firework is done, release the shutter with the cable release

Answer 2

All of these answers (except the first) have good information.

One other suggestion would be to set up with a unique perspective of the event, like the top of a really big hill overlooking the show. Or in a location with water, as the reflections add an element of interest.

I once shot fireworks at a show launched from barges near the Brooklyn Bridge. The fireworks themselves were only a small part of the full images which included light from the bridge and the reflections off of skyscraper windows etc.

Expect the unexpected and be prepared for lots of near misses. That's what makes it all fun.

Answer 3

Get rid of the 1600 ISO film. You need to use 50 or 100, preferably slide film. Shoot at f/8 with 100 ISO with 4-6 second exposures. Use f/11 if you are using a zoom and the scene is brighter. This is the combination I used to shoot the Macy's fireworks from my roof in Brooklyn.

Answer 4

I have learned to use 400ASA-+++ film, with a wide open aperture. It takessome experimenting. Otherwise you'll end up with unwanted trails,or zip. Having the option to take multiple shots helps too. Sometimes the first part of the light show is the best. Catching the light show in full bloom, may take multiple exposures. Then you pick out which one to be developed. It pays off to if you can find a dark location to set up. If you choose to set up in an area too close to other light sources it will affect the light speed of the film you will get funky discolorations, under/over exposed(s). Hope this helps you understand at least some idea, about light source(s).

Answer 5

Watch for the firework to start shooting up, you'll see a small stream of sparks. That's when you open the lens,leave it open till the firework is pretty much burned up. You'll get the whole thing that way.

Answer 6

my dads a really good photographer, but euh... try getting a stopwatch and a time-table from the guy in charge, then get it where nobody will bother you and
listen to what the other ppl will say w/e that is

Answer 7

umm no sorry