“How to Photograph Fireworks: Simple Gear, Big Results”

4th of July Fireworks over Camden Harbor, Maine.
ISO 200      4 sec exposure     F-5.6       160mm focal length

I periodically challenge myself to use my camera in ways that step outside my usual shooting techniques and subject matter. It’s an opportunity to learn more about what my camera can do—and to stretch my creative vision in new directions. Honestly, it’s often a really fun and refreshing experience. And this image was a result of doing just that.


You don’t need fancy gear to capture great fireworks photos—a sturdy tripod and a camera with manual exposure controls are more than enough. What really matters is preparation. Scout your location in advance, plan your compositions, and dial in your camera settings before the show starts. Firework displays typically last only about 20 minutes, so when the first burst lights up the sky, you’ll want to be ready to shoot—not scrambling with your gear.

1. Essential Equipment:

  • Tripod: Essential for stable, long exposures. 
  • Camera: A DSLR, Bridge, or mirrorless camera with manual controls
  • Cable release or remote shutter release: Prevents camera shake during long exposures. 

2. Camera Settings:

  • Manual Mode (M): Gives you full control over aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. You will not be reading your light meter, though.
  • Aperture: Start with f/8 or f/11, but adjust based on the brightness of the fireworks, and the desired brightness of the surrounding area. Wider apertures (smaller f-numbers) let in more light. 
  • ISO: Keep it low (100 or 200) to minimize noise in your images. Make sure that your Auto ISO setting is turned off.
  • Shutter Speed: You’ll be shooting at multiple seconds (2”, 3”, 4”) to keep the shutter open for the duration of the fireworks burst. Best to have a cable release or remote to prevent camera shake.
  • Focus: I recommend turning off all Auto Focusing options and switching to manual focus. From here you will either focus manually on the first firework or set the lens to infinity, and in either case leave the focus there.
  • Image Format:  Shoot in RAW for maximum flexibility in post-processing. (Optional)
  • Image Stabilization: Turn it off on your lens or in your camera settings as it’s not needed while on a tripod and can create unwanted blur.

3. Shooting Techniques:

  • Scout your location: Choose a spot with a clear view of the fireworks and minimal light pollution. 
  • Get there early: To claim your spot and have time to breath. Make some practice shots before dark for composition concerns.  
  • Be patient: Fireworks displays can be unpredictable, so be prepared to adjust your settings and compositions as needed. 
  • Focus: Do a quick focus check by zooming in while in playback mode.
  • Listen for the “boom”: Hit the shutter release when the firework is launch.
  • Adjust the shutter speed: when the fireworks are smaller, they give off less light so you’ll need a longer shutter speed to capture enough light (4” or  6”). For the larger displays like the grand finale, shorten the exposure to maybe 1” or 2”. This adjustment will also increase or decrease the trails.
  • Making exposure adjustments: Only change one setting at a time, either f-stop or shutter speed. Never both at the same time when you are experimenting.

Go ahead and give it a shot—and capture something spectacular!