4th of July is coming and many take their cameras along to record the fireworks. Here are five tips to ensure they come out as nice as possible.
1. Do not hold your camera
You will need a tripod. Photos showing the streaks of fireworks require long exposures of a second or more. While this doesn’t seem long, it is too long for someone to hand hold a camera for sharp photos. Having a tripod will ensure the camera will be perfectly still. Advice – don’t buy the cheapest tripod, you will regret it. Cheap ones are flimsy. Also ensure the ball head of the tripod will be strong enough to hold your camera and lens. A tripod is definitely not something to wait to get at the last minute.
2. Set your camera to shutter priority
If you set it to shutter priority, with a range of 1-3 seconds, the camera will adjust the aperture and ISO on its own. A range of 1-3 seconds will allow the camera to capture a lot of the explosion as well as the trails after.
3. Arrive early
You will need to scout the best location for the fireworks show and compose your photo. These are best done while there is light out. Also the best view spots often fill up quick, so try to arrive a few hours early. Yes it’s a pain but the photos will be worth it.
4. Wait until the burst
I typically wait until the fireworks explode before pressing the shutter button. That gives the camera an object to focus on quickly and records the firework trails after the explosion.
5. Supplies
Getting to the site early, you will find you have a lot of waiting before the fireworks. Bringing something to sit on, water (as it is often hot) and music to pass the time is recommended.
Bonus:
Always make sure you have your cell phone charged, people know where you are going and bring a flashlight. The reason for the flashlight is to ensure you have all of your belongings when you’re ready to leave.
I hope some of these tips were new and you're excited about taking photos for the 4th. Don't be afraid of taking too many, you can always delete the bad ones before you show anyone.