How to Take Better Photos of Fireworks

by | Technical, Light, Top Tips

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The Perfect Firework Photo Checklist

I’ll send you a copy of the checklist I use to take the perfect firework photo every time!

Happy 4th of July to all of my American friends!! Tonight is the night America will light up the sky with fireworks, and everyone will be trying to capture those amazing July 4th memories. Take a look at the tips below and learn how to take better photos of fireworks!

How to take better photos of fireworks
How to Take Better Photos of Fireworks

I’ve put together some easy tips to help you capture those sometimes challenging firework photos. Whether it’s July 4th, the Festival of Lights, New Years, Guy Fawke’s Night, or Bastille Day, try these out and see how much better your firework photos turn out!

How to Take Better Photos of Fireworks if You’re Using Your Camera


1. Use a tripod-this will guarantee your camera remains steady.
2. Turn off your flash-your camera’s flash only reaches a few meters, so it should be turned off.
3. Frame your shot-anticipate your shot before it happens to guarantee the best result.
4. Shoot in manual mode-check this out for help with that!
5. Use a low ISO-avoid grainy photo by using a lower ISO, 100-200 is excellent.
6. Start with a mid-range aperture. F11 is a great starting point and adjust from there.
7. And for shutter speed, this is why you use a tripod, start at 2-5 seconds. You can adjust if needed, but this is a good starting point.
8. Lastly, remember that as the night gets darker, you will need to adjust your settings.

How to take better photos of fireworks
Taking Pictures of Fireworks

How to Take Better Photos of Fireworks if You’re Using a Phone


1. Steady yourself! Lean against a table or on a fence, but take a minute to steady your body to assure great focus.
2. Frame your shot. Like any photo you take, you should remember to set up your shot in your mind before taking it.
3. Don’t zoom. Whatever you do, don’t zoom in. If you need to zoom, do so in post-processing.
4. Clean your lens-Number one mistake people make is not cleaning their lens!
5. Use burst mode-Hold your finger down on your shutter and take numerous pictures. This will give you more opportunities to get it right, and more to choose from.

How to take better photos of fireworks
How to Take Better Firework Pictures

Whether you’re taking your DSLR, tripod, and kit out tonight or just your phone, use these tips and instantly take better photos of fireworks!

Have fun, stay safe, happy snapping, and Happy 4th of July!

How to take better photos of fireworks
Taking Pictures of Fireworks

Learn how to use manual mode and take control of your camera so that you can create the amazing images that you’ve always imagined with the Manual Mode Essentials Ebook!

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