The Fourth of July is almost here and one of my favorite time honored traditions is to take fun sparkler and fireworks photos. Sparkler and firework pictures have become so popular in the past years, but it can be a struggle to take fun sparkler and fireworks photos if you aren’t sure how to outsmart the camera in this tricky lighting situation.
But, don’t you fret! I’m here to help you capture the coolest pics this Independence day with these super easy tricks! Honestly, it’s way easier than you think… and soon, you’ll be the coolest momma on the block with Pinterest worthy images from the 4th of July party.
1.Wait until it is dusk out
This may seem like a no brainer, but sometimes we get so excited we just have to start things early. If you try taking those sparkler pics outside and its still pretty bright, your sparkler just won’t stand out as much. The darker it is, the more the sparklers or fireworks are going to stand out in your image.
2. Turn off your flash {or auto-flash feature}
If you listened to my first tip, then it should be pretty dark out when you start taking your pics. When your camera sees a dark background, it will automatically try to bring more light into the situation. Normally, this would be good, but not so for sparkler and fireworks images. Go ahead and turn your flash off completely to give those sparklers a chance to shine on their own.
3. Find the fireworks mode for your camera
If you are working on a camera, usually there will be a mode that works great for taking fireworks images. This lets the camera know that you actually want a darker image so your camera can work accordingly. Working on your phone? There are so many camera apps that you can check out that will give you a little bit more control. You’ll want an app that lets you control the shutter speed. A slower shutter speed is great for light painting and a faster shutter speed is perfect for crisp photos. Try out a few to see what works best.
4. Shoot in continuous mode
When you’re photographing Fireworks, you have a VERY short window of time. So, I always start photographing right before it goes off to make sure I don’t miss it. Turn your phone camera on to burst mode and start clicking right before the fireworks light up the sky. This will make sure you capture them at just the right moment!
5. Have fun and remember, practice makes perfect
I know how it can be. You have the perfect vision and you just aren’t able to recreate it. That is so frustrating. But, you aren’t doing this to get the perfect shot, you are just trying to document an amazing memory with your family! If you aren’t loving your results at first, keep trying! You will get the hang of it!
These tips should help you and your kiddos take fun sparkler and fireworks photos this year as you are getting out to watch all those beautiful fireworks shows! If you’re looking for more fun photo activities to do with your kids, be sure to check out my free photo scavenger hunt for the whole family.
Did you find these tips helpful and can’t wait to get photographing? If so, I would love to see your images! Share them over in our Facebook group, or send me an email. If you have family or friends that you know would love this article? Please share it with them too!
