Firework Shot Framing
Posted on July 9, 2008
Filed Under Digital Cameras |
Fireworks displays can induce a lot of feelings in people as they are not only beautiful and amazing to observe but they also are many times used to commemorate momentous occasions.
The choice in where to aim your camera can be one of the hardest parts of firework photography. The challenge is that you will have to anticipate where the firework will explode and aim the camera in this area. Getting your framing right is still possible with the help of a few pointers.
Check out the location before hand. Planning is imperative with fireworks and getting to the site early in order to get an excellent, unobstructed spot is important. Keep in mind what is in the foreground and background of your shots and ensure you won’t have people’s heads popping up into your shots. Also think about what effect you’ll have on those around you.
Be aware of where the fireworks will be launched from and into what are of the sky the will be shot to. If possible, ask those who are preparing for the show for information on what the event will consist of. Also consider what focal lengths you might want to use and select suitable lenses at this time as opposed to in the middle of the show.
Keep an eye on the horizons. Always consider if your camera is even or straight in its framing when lining up your firework shots. This will be especially critical when shooting with a wide focal length to include other background elements into your shot. When getting your camera on your tripod make sure it’s level from the time you set up.
How do you choose vertical or horizontal? There are two main ways of framing shots in all types of photography, vertically (portrait) or horizontally (landscape). Although both can be used in fireworks photography, I myself find a vertical perspective is better, mostly because there is a lot of vertical motion in fireworks. Horizontal shots will work if you are aiming for more of a landscape shot with a wider focal length or if you want to capture multiple bursts of fireworks in the one shot.
Keep your framing in mind. Since I find myself watching the sky directly more when photographing fireworks instead of looking through my viewfinder, it is important to remember what framing you have set and watch that part of the sky. This will help to raise your level of anticipation of the shot as you will see the light trails of unexploded rockets being launched into the night.
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