Summer is synonymous with fireworks, and as we approach Independence Day, your Instagram feed is likely to be filled with vibrant displays lighting up the night sky. Capturing these dazzling moments in photographs can be a rewarding yet challenging endeavor. The unpredictability of fireworks, with their bright, colorful bursts, requires a thoughtful approach to capture effectively. With a few straightforward tips, you can create stunning images that will instantly transport you back to the excitement of the moment. Whether you're at the bay, beach, park or fair, try these five powerful tips for better fireworks photography at your next show:
1. Gear Selection For Fireworks Photography – Pack Versatile Zoom Lenses
When preparing for a fireworks show, ensure you have your Sony Alpha camera (such as the Alpha 1 II, Alpha 7R V, Alpha 1 or Alpha 7 IV) paired with a versatile zoom lens. A wide zoom lens will help you include the entire fireworks display and its surroundings within the frame. Consider lenses like the 24-70mm f/2.8 G Master II, 70-200mm f/2.8 G Master II or 24-105mm f/4 G, which offer the flexibility to adapt quickly to different scenes. Don't forget a tripod for stability.
Photo by Mike Meyers. Alpha 7R IV. 24-70mm f/2.8 G Master. 15-sec., f/7.1, ISO 100
2. Gear Setup – Arrive Early & Use a Tripod
Fireworks attract large crowds, so arrive early to secure a good spot. Set up your camera on a solid tripod to prevent motion blur caused by camera shake. A remote trigger can further help minimize vibrations, ensuring your shots remain sharp.
3. Compositions & Perspectives – Create a Sense of Place
Composition is key when photographing fireworks. Incorporate elements in the background or foreground to add context and interest to your images. Be mindful of your framing, as fireworks can explode higher than anticipated. Your wide zoom lens will be invaluable in capturing a variety of compositions, even in crowded settings.
4. Back Button Focus – Efficiently Switch Between Auto and Manual
Set up Back Button Autofocus to easily switch between autofocus and manual focus. This technique prevents the camera from refocusing with every shutter press, allowing you to maintain focus on the fireworks. Periodically check your focus, especially if you adjust the zoom or change lenses.
Photo by Mike Meyers. Alpha 7R II. 24-70mm f/2.8 G Master. 1/100-sec., f/2.8, ISO 4000
5. General Camera Settings – Experiment To Perfect Your Exposure
For fireworks photography, shoot in manual mode to have full control over your exposure, and in RAW format for flexibility in post-processing. Turn off Long Exposure Noise Reduction to avoid delays between shots. Start with ISO 100, aperture at f/11, and a shutter speed of 1-2 seconds. To capture longer streaks, increase the shutter speed and narrow the aperture. Bulb Mode can also be useful for manually controlling exposure. Experiment with different settings to achieve the desired effect.
With these tips, your fireworks photos will stand out from all those phone snapshots on your feed. Enjoy, and have a safe and happy Fourth of July!
Shout out to Alpha Collective member Mike Meyers for the great fireworks photos in this article. Follow him on Instagram @mmeyers76 to see what he captures this year.
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