Community Corner

How to Photograph Fireworks

A Patch photographer gives advice on capturing the sparkle in the sky.

Capturing July 4th or any other fireworks on camera is a challenge that can be mastered easily with the right equipment and settings on your camera.

Here is a short tutorial to help you capture the rockets' red glare this Fourth of July.  

Equipment needed:

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  • Camera: Either point-and-shoot or an SLR.
  • Tripod: To keep the camera steady and prevent motion blur.
  • Flashlight:  To see the camera settings in the dark.
  • Settings: Point-and-shoots often have a "fireworks" scene setting; SLR users should try F8 at 2 seconds.
  • Wireless Trigger: Not necessary but it helps to prevent camera shake. 

Have a fireworks photo to share? Upload it to our Pics & Clips gallery on Mill Valley Patch!

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