The National Day Parade usually sees a spectacular display of fireworks at the end of the display. Canon Imaging Academy shares three tips to capturing great photos of fireworks.
Shooting great snapshots of fireworks is not difficult, as long as you spend a little time preparing ahead. Today’s tip is on what to prepare and how to go about it. Photo credit: Canon Imaging Academy.
This year being Singapore’s 50th anniversary for independence, the fireworks will be unprecedented, with daily fireworks displays throughout the Jubilee Weekend.
Three fireworks tips
- Get a solid set-up
- Get the settings sorted
- Filling your frame
If you’re planning to shoot the fireworks next Sunday on 9 August, check out three quick tips that the Canon Imaging Academy has shared.
The details for these tips will be posted as a three-part series over three days, with the first tip covered today.
So read on…
Fireworks Tip 1: Get a solid set-up
Scout or risk losing out
An obvious but often overlooked step on a mission to photograph fireworks is to scout for a good location.
Ideally, seek out a vantage point that allows for a wide, unobstructed view of the iconic buildings and the skyline.
With the daily fireworks shows happening throughout Jubilee Weekend, this should be a cinch this year!
For those with busy work schedules, using online street maps with views from street level is a smart and innovative way to go about identifying ideal photo spots without leaving the comfort of your home or office.
The early bird catches the best view
Be sure to arrive early on the shoot day to beat the crowd – nothing ruins a picture like the random silhouette of a head in an otherwise breath-taking picture.
For crystal clear pictures, you will want to get your shot in near the beginning of the fireworks display, before the view gets obstructed by residual smoke from the fireworks.
Use a tripod
A tripod can make a world of difference between a crisp photo and a splotchy mess of colours.
With some expected jostling, the tripod will not just ensure a still and steady frame, but also prevent your arms from becoming fatigued and wobbly.
To avoid blurry photos, consider a remote shutter release device.
Remotes such as the RS-60E3 and the RC-1 will eliminate the need for you to apply pressure on the camera body’s shutter release button, and avoid shaking the camera in the midst of a shot.
Some cameras from Canon
An interchangeable lens camera, such as the Canon EOS 5DS and EOS 5DS R models offer both flexibility and quality for your photographs.
If you prefer going light, consider a mirrorless camera such as the Canon EOS M3.
Mirrorless cameras offer a compact body without sacrificing on image quality.
In the spirit of national pride, you could also go for the special SG50 limited edition PowerShot G7 X.
The PowerShot G7 X is primed to deliver fantastic image quality even in dim-lighting conditions, which makes it your go-to companion for fireworks.
Alternatively, the IXUS 275 HS would make a good option for the casual or novice photographer.
This camera has a good zoom, and is equipped with the latest technologies that enable users to take high-resolution shots.
Plus, you can easily share your photos on social media through the camera’s in-built Wi-Fi and NFC capabilities.
Tags: cameras, Canon, Canon Imaging Academy, EOS, Fireworks, howto, IXUS, jubilee, National Day Parade, NDP, photography, SG50, tips