Fireworks are of course in the dark! Take a light with you! It can help you be safe. And more importantly, help you set see your camera and equipment while setting up. I use the Energizer LED Headlight. I can still use both hands on my gear! And it has an option for a red light that is not as...
Categories: Gear Recommendations
A tripod is a must have for fireworks photography. Hand holding your camera is just not possible! There are litterally hundreds of options for tripods. There are several factors to keep in mind when shopping for a tripod. First is price. Tripods range from under $100 to over $700! Try to buy the best you can afford the first time. ...
Categories: Gear Recommendations
For most firework shows you will need a wide angle lens. Using a wide angle zoom lens makes it easier to adjust your framing as the show progresses. Occasionally you will need a longer lens for your fireworks composition however. Below are my favorites. Nikon 14-24mm f2.8 This lens will give you an ultra wide perspective with the 14mm range. ...
Categories: Gear Recommendations
What camera do you need to choose for fireworks photography? There are dozens of cameras options! For fireworks photography you want to be able to control the shutter speed. Look for cameras that have the option for bulb mode. That mode allows you open and hold open the shutter for an amount of time you determine. Most DSLR cameras will...
Categories: Gear Recommendations
Fireworks photo look incredible on metallic paper! Order a large print from Mpix.com on their metallic paper! You’ll be amazed!
Categories: Gear Recommendations
Photographing the finale of fireworks shows can be difficult. The multiple bursts can be extremely bright. You have to take care to control the exposure to be able to maintain detail in the highlights. The above photo was taken during the finale of Wishes at the Magic Kingdom of Walt Disney World. As the show progress getting closer to the...
Categories: Tips and Tricks
In places where the show is the same each night or each week, get to know the show! In Walt Disney World, for example, Wishes in the Magic Kingdom and Illuminations at Epcot are the same each night. Watch YouTube videos to learn the different parts of the show. Then you will be able to anticipate when a dramatic set...
Categories: Tips and Tricks
A neutral density filter is a must have for photographing fireworks. This filter allows you to have longer exposures without overexposing the highlights. During bright part of the shows, like the finale, you have to have a neutral density filter to expose for longer than a second or two and maintain control of the highlights. I was carrying multiple ND...
Categories: Gear Recommendations
Illuminations Reflections of Earth Epcot Walt Disney World Camera Info Nikon D700 Lens – 24-70mm 24mm f18 15 Seconds Exposure Tiffen Variable ND Filter This shot has a long story! We arrived at Epcot at 7:00 am for the 100th Anniversary of Girl Scout Celebration. By 8, we were all hot, tired, exhausted and ready to leave. But then we...
Categories: Tips and Tricks
Wishes Fireworks at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World. Tip – Look for water! Having water during a fireworks show creates great foreground elements from the reflection. Nikon D700 24-70mm f2.8 @ 24mm f14 19 seconds ISO 200 Tiffen Variable ND Filter @ 6 stops Edited in Lightroom and Nik Color Effects Pro Learn how to shoot fireworks using...
Categories: Tips and Tricks