How to shoot fireworks

[VVFF]

Are there any owners of the above camera out there? If so could you post some of your night time and firework shots please. I think in the US its a Ti1.

My little P&S Nikon can't take these shots, so we've decided to upgrade to a proper camera.I have never owned a DSLR camera, I use to own a Minolta when film was around and loved that. I don't want a Sony, we have already ruled that out.

The guy in the shop tried to sell us a Samsung NX10, is this anygood ? I was put off as I have never heard about it. I've read loads of reviews and I am really confused.

I am no pro just like taking photo's mainly of pets, kids and on holiday.

First off are you sure you are blaming the correct thing? Does your Nikon P&S not have any sort of manual control? Manual P&S's do have some form of manual controls. If you aren't sure, its something to look into.

Really good fireworks shots are taken with a tripod. You may get a shot or two luckily without one but its really the only way to reliably take a picture of them. Even then, the camera isn't going to do it for you. You'll have to choose the appropriate aperture and shutter speed.

 

[ukcatfan]

First make sure that you really need a DSLR. Any camera can take fireworks shots. Some are easier to use, but all require a tripod (including DSLRs). If you have the ability to use a remote shutter release, it is easier to time the shots, but a two second timer will also work. If your night shots are of static objects, such as landscapes, then you can also use a p&s for that. The key thing is the tripod, which you are going to need no matter what. If your low light shots are of motion, then a DSLR is the way to go. You will also need a at least one extra lens, so consider that in your budget. The most popular lens for this type of work is a 50mm prime. Something in a 30-35mm range might be better for things like WDW dark rides, but they typically cost a little more. You can consider used lenses to help keep costs down.

If you go with a DSLR, consider the T1i, T2i, Nikon D5000, and Pentax K-x. My choice is the K-x because it is a really good buy for the features here in the US. You would have to determine if it is a good deal in your country. The Samsung is sort of a failed experiment for them in my opinion. It is their try at a mirrorless large sensor camera. They are not DSLRs b/c they have no optical viewfinder (it is a small LCD). I think Sony is going to dominate that market with Olympus a close second. I have never seen or heard about one single Samsung user. They are partners with Pentax for DSLRs, but have not made a new body in years. I suspect that will change if the NX10 does not get any more popular. I would not go with one since the line is likely headed to the abandonedware graveyard.

 

[PrincessInOz]

HeatherBelle - I'm about 4 months ahead of where you currently are.

The responses that you've gotten so far make very good points.

• You need to want to purchase a dSLR because they can be expensive toys to buy.
• Your P&S may possibly already be able to take firework shots.
• If you do decide to buy a dSLR, make sure you buy the size that suits your hands and not because the salesman wants to sell it to you. It also helps to do some research to see what the reviews are like on the cameras that you are interested in.

5 months ago, we had our trusty P&S that was capable of taking these types of fireworks shots. This picture was taken in 2005; and whilst it isn't the best quality or the most brilliant shot, we were happy with it. We took it with the aid of a tripod.

(Picture taken June 2005)

We decided that we wanted to upgrade to a dSLR. DH had been meaning to do this for years (he used to be an avid SLR amateur) and we purchased a Canon 550D (T2i in the US) kit with the 18 - 55 lens in April this year. Until this time, I had pretty much been a snappy happy P&S gal. We chose the camera because it was the one that best suited DH and my hands. We also tried the Nikon (too big for me), the Sony Alpha (DH was keen on this one but I'd done the research and wasn't so keen) and the Pentex (good for me, but not for him). We did consider the 500D; but DH really wanted the video capability so we ended up with this camera.

We headed to WDW in May. In the month that we had the camera before the trip, I think we played with it over 2 weekends and DH made the transition easier because of his SLR experience.

But you asked to see some shots and I thought it was appropriate to respond, given that these shots were taken by 'new starters'. We didn't get a firework shot that we were happy with - but that was more about US than the camera; plus the fact that we had planned to get a great tripod in the States but never found a shop during our trip. So here's a selection of shots. None of the shots have been edited in any way and were loaded from the jpg versions.

(Taken from the Tomorrowland Terrace)

The thing to consider is what you plan to do with the camera after your trip.

After we came home, the camera sat in the bag for a good 6 weeks without anyone picking it up; and for the price of the 550D, it was criminal.

So, I decided I wanted to play with the camera and considered signing up for a photography course. But I knew that no course in the world would substitute just getting out and about and using the thing.
This forum has been great for me...because 2 months ago, I found the Summer Photography scavenger hunt. Since then, I've learnt to take all kinds of shots and in all different modes.....including moving the camera into MANUAL! Within 2 weeks of starting the scavenger hunt, I ended up adding the 55 - 250 lens to my camera bag, which I wished I had included in my initial purchase. Hindsight is always a wonderful thing.

I'm a long way from being the best photographer in the world; but I'm a lot better photographer now than 2 months ago. I still plan on taking a course - but at least I won't be going in 'cold'.

At some stage, I'm going to outgrow the 18 - 55 and the 55 - 250 lenses; but for the moment and as a beginner, they are just fine. I also now know that I need a 50 mm prime lens and am saving my pennies to get the f1.4 instead of the f1.8 version.

And I now cannot imagine walking out of the house or going anywhere without my camera and the camera bag.

Hope this helps.

 

[photo_chick]

I agreew with the previosu statement that you do not necessarily need a DSLR to get night shots. There are point and shoots that can pull off low light shtos if you know how to push them. Likewise, to get really good low light/ night shots with a DSLR you will have to learn about photography if you don't know about it already.

that said, I'll share a few shots since you asked from my 50D. It's got a very similar sensor and the same ISO range and performance as the Rebel T1i. They're not Disney, but they are at night.

These were shot with the 50mm f/1.8, hand held.

 

[C&B Young]

Like the previous posters have said, the camera itself isn't the most important factor in fireworks shots. You absolutely need a tripod, and a remote release (or use the self-timer on the camera). I did take some fireworks photos last year at MNSSHP with the 50D (same sensor as the T1i) and 18-55 kit lens, as it was my widest lens at that time. Here's an example:

 

[heatherbelle]

Thank you for all your replies.

Catfish I too have never heard of the Samsung, I do have a samsung telly which is fab. But I have never heard of a camera, so i do feel he was trying to offload.

My point and shoot cost us around $150 5 years ago, does have firework settings and also night time settings, but we haven't had much luck with it at all and I sooooo want to be able to take those great shoots that are posted on here. So we have decided to take the plunge. I will try and post some later to show you what it does. For some we didn't use a tripod and for others we rested it on a bin. I know, I know, I need to get a tripod and I will get one before we head off to the World in 2 weeks time. The problem could be because we need one of those remote things, so that the camera doesn't move around, when you press the shutter.

We have tried the cameras in our hands and the Canon is best for both of us, like the other poster above, the Nikon was too big for me. So I think Canon is the way to go.

 

[photo_chick]

ON the samsung NX10

http://www.dpreview.com/news/1001/10010402samsungnx.asp

I hadn't looked at it before... it's a new mirrorless with an APS-C sized sensor. So yeah, with the right lens it should be able to go head to head with comparably featured DSLR's. I'm not a big fan of the mirrorless systems because I 'm a dinosaur that way, but if you want something more compact and a traditional TTL viewfinder isn't a requirement then they might be worth a look for you.

 

[heatherbelle]

Here are the photo's taken with my little Nikon.

[/IMG]

I know I need a tripod! The actual burst looks quite good.

[/IMG]

For this one, I was rested on something.

[/IMG]
My DH did better than me with this one, I move too much, my photo's are always blurred, I put it down to the camera being very light to hold.

[/IMG]

This one is too dark.

 

[heatherbelle]

Like the previous posters have said, the camera itself isn't the most important factor in fireworks shots. You absolutely need a tripod, and a remote release (or use the self-timer on the camera). I did take some fireworks photos last year at MNSSHP with the 50D (same sensor as the T1i) and 18-55 kit lens, as it was my widest lens at that time. Here's an example:

I'd be very happy with that shot! A vast improvement on my blurred castle. Must get a tripod.

 

[zackiedawg]

Honestly, I'd tend to recommend a bit more learning on cameras and photographic technique in general before moving towards a new camera. Based on how you describe taking photos, and the modes you mentioned your camera having, it still sounds to me as if your photos would improve dramatically with a bit more knowledge and practice, and that a DSLR by itself will not solve your problems. I can still show you lots of blurry castle shots with DSLRs!

I don't think I need to give any input on brands of DSLRs or any cameras for that matter - you seem to have limited your brand selection already for whatever reason so convincing you to look at other models might prove a bit futile - I would generally encourage an open mind and trying out all options available rather than just choosing between chocolate and vanilla. But I more strongly feel like your lack of experience is still the big factor that can be improved upon and yield far better photos than simply getting a DSLR will. Not that getting the DSLR is a bad move - just not expecting it to take better photos using the same skills and techniques as before!

 

[alicia080979]

HeatherBelle - I'm about 4 months ahead of where you currently are.

The responses that you've gotten so far make very good points.

• You need to want to purchase a dSLR because they can be expensive toys to buy.
• Your P&S may possibly already be able to take firework shots.
• If you do decide to buy a dSLR, make sure you buy the size that suits your hands and not because the salesman wants to sell it to you. It also helps to do some research to see what the reviews are like on the cameras that you are interested in.

5 months ago, we had our trusty P&S that was capable of taking these types of fireworks shots. This picture was taken in 2005; and whilst it isn't the best quality or the most brilliant shot, we were happy with it. We took it with the aid of a tripod.

(Picture taken June 2005)

We decided that we wanted to upgrade to a dSLR. DH had been meaning to do this for years (he used to be an avid SLR amateur) and we purchased a Canon 550D (T2i in the US) kit with the 18 - 55 lens in April this year. Until this time, I had pretty much been a snappy happy P&S gal. We chose the camera because it was the one that best suited DH and my hands. We also tried the Nikon (too big for me), the Sony Alpha (DH was keen on this one but I'd done the research and wasn't so keen) and the Pentex (good for me, but not for him). We did consider the 500D; but DH really wanted the video capability so we ended up with this camera.

We headed to WDW in May. In the month that we had the camera before the trip, I think we played with it over 2 weekends and DH made the transition easier because of his SLR experience.

But you asked to see some shots and I thought it was appropriate to respond, given that these shots were taken by 'new starters'. We didn't get a firework shot that we were happy with - but that was more about US than the camera; plus the fact that we had planned to get a great tripod in the States but never found a shop during our trip. So here's a selection of shots. None of the shots have been edited in any way and were loaded from the jpg versions.

(Taken from the Tomorrowland Terrace)

The thing to consider is what you plan to do with the camera after your trip.

After we came home, the camera sat in the bag for a good 6 weeks without anyone picking it up; and for the price of the 550D, it was criminal.

So, I decided I wanted to play with the camera and considered signing up for a photography course. But I knew that no course in the world would substitute just getting out and about and using the thing.
This forum has been great for me...because 2 months ago, I found the Summer Photography scavenger hunt. Since then, I've learnt to take all kinds of shots and in all different modes.....including moving the camera into MANUAL! Within 2 weeks of starting the scavenger hunt, I ended up adding the 55 - 250 lens to my camera bag, which I wished I had included in my initial purchase. Hindsight is always a wonderful thing.

I'm a long way from being the best photographer in the world; but I'm a lot better photographer now than 2 months ago. I still plan on taking a course - but at least I won't be going in 'cold'.

At some stage, I'm going to outgrow the 18 - 55 and the 55 - 250 lenses; but for the moment and as a beginner, they are just fine. I also now know that I need a 50 mm prime lens and am saving my pennies to get the f1.4 instead of the f1.8 version.

And I now cannot imagine walking out of the house or going anywhere without my camera and the camera bag.

Hope this helps.

I love the astro orbiter and Chip & Dale shots! Do you know what settings you were using? I am just getting started with photography and have the Rebel XSI with the 18-55 and 55-250. I am getting ready to order a tripod and remote release today for our Sept trip so I'm trying to take as many notes as I can. We have an amusement park about 10 min from our house that has fireworks nightly so I want to practice!

 

[SrisonS]

No need to repeat what others have said. But here are some night shots from my T1i. You can click the pics for larger versions on Flickr, and to see the EXIF data. And it's a total coincidence with the tripod/lens combination; just so you know.

tripod shot Lens: 18-135mm


tripod shot Lens: 18-135mm


railing shot Lens: 18-135mm



handheld 1/25 sec ISO: 3200 Lens: 18-55mm



handheld 1/25 sec ISO: 3200 Lens: 18-55mm



handheld 1/30 sec ISO: 3200 Lens: 18-55mm

 

[Altair]

As the above photos prove, you don't need to use a tripod to get good fireworks shots, although you can get much better, or at least much more dramatic shots with one.

Fireworks do nothing for me, so I don't put much effort into photographing them, but here is a handheld shot from a Canon XS with the 18-55mm lens at 18mm, ISO 800, f/3.5 at 1/125th of a second:

Remember, you are taking a photo of very bright light against a very dark background.

 

[PrincessInOz]

I love the astro orbiter and Chip & Dale shots! Do you know what settings you were using? I am just getting started with photography and have the Rebel XSI with the 18-55 and 55-250. I am getting ready to order a tripod and remote release today for our Sept trip so I'm trying to take as many notes as I can. We have an amusement park about 10 min from our house that has fireworks nightly so I want to practice!

DH took the astro orbiter one. The exif file indicates the following settings:
18 mm, ISO 3200, f/3.5 at 1/8 sec. I asked DH what he did and it turns out that he braced himself against the orbiter to keep as still as possible and put the camera into No Flash mode!

The Chip N Dale is mine....and I cannot claim to be much better (my excuse is that we only had the camera for about 1 month at this stage). The exif file show the following settings:
49 mm, ISO 400, f/5.6 at 1/125 sec. I put the camera into Full Auto, focussed on Chip N Dale and clicked.

 

[allie5]

I wasn't able to bring my tripod on my current trip, so last night i had to try to shoot the MK fireworks handheld with my Canon 30D and sigma 30mm f/1.4. I used av mode set to the largest aperture iso 800 which gave a reasonable shutter speed of around 1/125 if I waited for bright bursts. I was actually pretty pleased with the results ( which I will post when i get back home!). I used a tripod on my last visit but it was Xmas and it kept getting jostled in the crowd, so I didn't have as much success as I hoped! If you can afford a fast lens it will help with lowlight handheld shots. If you use a tripod then any lens (or even a p&s with shutter control) is capable of decent night shots.

I did have a little chuckle last night when some guy with a shiny new top end pro Canon fitted with some fancy L glass was waving it around above the heads of the crowd and the flash was firing every time he pressed the shutter. His bemused face when he reviewed his blurry dark photos was a picture in itself . I nearly demanded he handed his kit over to me for committing the ultimate photography sin of not knowing how to use your kit !

 

[SrisonS]

I did have a little chuckle last night when some guy with a shiny new top end pro Canon fitted with some fancy L glass was waving it around above the heads of the crowd and the flash was firing every time he pressed the shutter. His bemused face when he reviewed his blurry dark photos was a picture in itself . I nearly demanded he handed his kit over to me for committing the ultimate photography sin of not knowing how to use your kit !

Now that would've been a good night shot.

 

[alicia080979]

DH took the astro orbiter one. The exif file indicates the following settings:
18 mm, ISO 3200, f/3.5 at 1/8 sec. I asked DH what he did and it turns out that he braced himself against the orbiter to keep as still as possible and put the camera into No Flash mode!

The Chip N Dale is mine....and I cannot claim to be much better (my excuse is that we only had the camera for about 1 month at this stage). The exif file show the following settings:
49 mm, ISO 400, f/5.6 at 1/125 sec. I put the camera into Full Auto, focussed on Chip N Dale and clicked.

Thank you! Mine is still new so I have so much to learn but I just loved those shots. I am going to have to try to "brace myself" and see how that turns out, hehe.

 

[Bstanley]

You can get very nice fireworks shots from a tripod with a Rebel (XS in this case) using the 18-55, but I suspect that any camera that gives you the option of a 3 or 4 second shot - using a remote shutter release - would be able to do a pretty good job (from a tripod).

3 Seconds, F/11, ISO 100, 18mm (yes it has been pointed out that I need a level

 

[JMUAndy05]

Bumping because I fly out bright and early Monday morning. Any recommendations on which ND filter I listed would be most appropriate?

 

[allie5]

It wasnt feasible for me to bring my tripod on my trip last week so I decided to try and have a go handheld.

I used my Sigma 30mm f/1.4 on my Canon 30D.

I mainly used Tv mode at 1/125, ISO 800 and waited for the brighter bursts. I did find the spot I had meant the lens wasnt QUITE wide enough to get the shots I would have liked but it was a very busy summers night and I had to go with the flow.

They are nowhere near perfect but better than I had hoped for hand held. I didnt expect anything to be honest. Will endeavour to take my tripod next time though!