Community Corner

How to Photograph Fireworks this Fourth of July

A photographer gives advice on capturing the sparkle in the sky for point-and-shoots and professionals.

Dan Lambert's profile picture
Dan Lambert, Patch StaffVerified Patch Staff Badge
https://patch.com/img/cdn/users/30728/2013/07/raw/d61f5eccc3122048f8e95b190d72b8e0.png
https://patch.com/img/cdn/users/30728/2013/07/raw/8a2e29a4f3d26da097e086644bac91d0.png
https://patch.com/img/cdn/users/30728/2013/07/raw/788d62d552b54e31adff919c8e06f34a.png
https://patch.com/img/cdn/users/30728/2013/07/raw/6de8ac9c4fd855fc1af30bb11aafae2c.png
https://patch.com/img/cdn/users/30728/2013/07/raw/c85118d219e06401b6381e0d332e7183.png

By Sarah Flagg

Capturing photos of fireworks is a challenge that can be mastered easily with the right equipment and settings on your camera. Click through the photos above to read a short tutorial to help you capture the rockets' red glare on the Fourth of July.  

Equipment needed:

Find out what's happening in Evergreen Parkwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

  • Camera: Either a point-and-shoot or a SLR (single lens reflex).
  • Tripod: To keep the camera steady and prevent motion blur.
  • Flashlight: To see the camera settings in the dark.
  • Wireless Trigger or cable release: Not vital, but it helps prevent camera shake if you have one.
Steps to take (follow with the photos above): 

  • Mount camera on a tripod, keeping it low to the ground and making sure nothing obstructing your view of the fireworks. 
  • Set camera to fireworks or scene mode and make sure the flash is off. 
  • Set the focus to infinity.
  • To reduce noise, set the ISO to 100, and then arrange your shutter speed and aperture. 
  • Most fireworks only last a few seconds, so set the shutter speed for 2 seconds and adjust if necessary. Keep aperture around F/8.
  • When the rockets start flaring, press the shutter or your wireless remote. Watch the beautiful photos appear before you.

    • Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

    We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

    More from Evergreen Park