Photographing fireworks in the night sky can be tricky, but in order to get the best results, the Los Angeles Times has some tips and tricks to getting those perfect shots of the light shows this 4th of July.
For high-quality photographs, use a tripod to steady your camera and if possible, familiarize yourself with the workings of it earlier in the day before the show starts. To check your camera's settings at night, bring a small flashlight, as it's often tough to see the knobs and controls on the camera in the dark.
Manual settings are the best for shooting fireworks, as your camera can detect the best shooting situation. Set your shutter speed to "Bulb" or exposure speed, the aperature at f/8 and the ISO at 200 as a good place to start. After the first exposures, check the screen on the back of your camera and than vary the exposure to get the best shots.
Of course, the most important tip is probably finding a good location from which to photograph. Get to your spot early as to avoid crowds that may block your shots, and if possible, move to a higher location with interesting architecture in the foreground, which may get you a much better picture.
If you're using your iPhone camera, AOL Tech recommends several apps that can help you achieve that perfect shot. Fast Camera, Camera+, iLightning Cam and Slow Shutter Cam are apps designed to keep the shutter of your camera open or improve stabilization and focus with expert controls.
iLightning is designed to automatically take pictures of lightning strikes, but works well for fireworks as well.
Also, turn your flash off! It won't help your photos and will reduce the contrast. Apple has a tap-to-focus feature that can help you get your pictures properly focused, though you'll have to be quick and tap the screen just as the bright fireworks display appears. Like any other camera, placing your iPhone on a tripod or something to stabilize it will always come in handy in getting the best shots.
