How to Photograph Fireworks

Phone & DSLR Tips

Capturing fireworks can be a thrilling challenge—bursting color, fleeting light, and dramatic contrast make for stunning photos when done right. Whether you're using a phone or a DSLR, here’s how to make the most of the spectacle.

With a Phone Camera: Keep It Steady & Use the Right Settings

Gear:

• A tripod with a phone mount is ideal to keep your shot steady during longer exposures.

• If no tripod is available, stabilize your phone against a solid surface.

Settings & Tips:

• Use night mode if your phone supports it—it combines multiple exposures for a better low-light result.

• Disable flash.

• If your phone allows manual control (via built-in settings or apps like Halide or ProCamera), use a low ISO (100–200), and a shutter speed of 1–4 seconds.

• Focus manually to infinity if possible.

• Shoot just before or during the burst for the full firework trail.

Composition:

• Include foreground elements like silhouettes, buildings, or water to add context and scale.

• Use the rule of thirds to place fireworks off-center for a more dynamic image.

• Try vertical framing for tall bursts and horizontal if you're capturing multiple fireworks at once.

With a DSLR Camera: Manual Mode for Maximum Control

Gear:

• Sturdy tripod

• Remote shutter release or use the 2-second timer to reduce shake

• Wide-angle lens (18–35mm) or mid-zoom (24–70mm) to frame the scene

• Optional: Neutral density filter if you’re in a bright cityscape

Settings:

• Manual mode is key.

• ISO: 100–200

• Aperture: f/8 to f/16 for crisp trails and deep depth of field

• Shutter: Start with 2–5 seconds and adjust based on burst brightness

• Focus: Manual focus set to infinity

• White balance: Try "Daylight" or "Tungsten" and fine-tune in post

Composition:

• Scout your location early—look for reflections on water, city skylines, or silhouettes for added impact.

• Leave room at the top of the frame for higher bursts.

• Consider multiple exposures or layering shots in post to combine the best fireworks.

Bonus Tips for Both

• Arrive early to claim a good spot.

• Bring a flashlight to see your settings if using a DSLR.

• Shoot often—you can always delete the duds later.

• Watch for wind direction—smoke can haze your shot.

Whether it’s with a smartphone or a DSLR, patience and preparation are your best friends. With steady hands (or tripods), the right exposure, and thoughtful composition, your firework shots can be just as dazzling as the real show.

And for everyone’s sake, especially your own, if you are the one lighting the fuse, don’t be like the guy in the image at right cowering under the brush, covering his head when the fireworks tube tilted over after being lit. Be safe and have fun.