How to photograph fireworks:

The most important element in photographing fireworks is patience. Sometimes, it takes a combination of serendipity, and trial and error to get that magic shot that provides visual pizzazz and emotional impact. Here are some basic technical considerations to keep in mind.

• Use a tripod to mount and steady your camera.
• Contrary to our intuition, slower speed films actually work best! I use AGFA RSX, which has an ISO index of 50. Provia 100F also works just fine.
• If your camera allows, set your shutter speed to bulb for time exposures of several seconds. I use a cable release and my exposures range from 2 to 5 seconds, depending on how many bursts are happening.
• Try to anticipate where the bursts are going to occur. I follow the path of the mortar shell when it ascends, and open the shutter just before the explosion.
• Medium-wide to medium telephoto lenses work best.  I usually range from 50mm to about 120mm mm focal lengths). This yields a close enough image to give you some detail. However, be careful about not clipping off the fireworks trails at the edge of your frame.  The trick is to pre-position your camera in the general area of the bursts and hope for the best!

© R. Scott Secord