Taking Firework Photos

[Dimplenose]

My new camera has a firework setting but I can't find any hints on using it.

Do I wait until the fireworks are at their height and then press the button or should I anticipate and press it early?

(I've never got any shots of fireworks before so any hints are welcome.)

 

[wickesy]

I don't use the fireworks setting on my camera because I found the photos came out too blurry. I think that setting slows down the shutter speed so you have to kind of anticipate when the 'burst' is going to come and either use a tripod or hold the camera steady on something.

 

[scottish mum]

I'm afraid that whenever i use my camera on firework setting the photos are always blurred. I usually get ok photos just on the normal setting but I would love to get soem great ones. some people have amazing photos when they do their TR and I always wonder what their secret is.

 

[Obi Wan Kenobi]

This will give you some pointers

http://www.photographyreview.com/fireworksphotoguidecrx.aspx

Personally I use the Bulb setting and after the debacle with a monopod, would only use a tripod from now on

 

[wickesy]

This will give you some pointers

http://www.photographyreview.com/fireworksphotoguidecrx.aspx

I think I'll stick to point, shoot and hope.

Thanks for posting the link Obi, it's interesting to see how the 'pros' do it.

 

[Danauk]

The main trick is to keep the camera steady, use a tripod or a gorilla pod. Failing that, rest it on an angle on a steady surfice. I have got some OK pictures on my point and shoot with the firework setting. But I have had better results with my DSLR using manual settings, tripod and remote control to take the picture.

OK, not the greatest, and not technically a firework, but here is one I took last year at Fantasmic at Disneyland.

I am going to try to get some good Wishes and Fantasmic shots next month.

 

[Dimplenose]

Oh dear, I was hoping for great things from the firework setting. I'll just have to go to Wishes early in my trip and experiment, then I'll have time to go back (once or twice) for another try.