Disapponting Fireworks

[dslrchat]

Well, I read and researched and still ended up blowing the fireworks photos.

Maybe I overwhelmed myself to a point that I just blew it!

Very blurry, most are over exposed, some under exposed, horizon on a slant, I can go on and on

The display only lasted 10 minutes (and not really that spectacular)

I figured I would blow the first couple of photos but then get a few good ones at the end,
However I never got in the groove or felt comfortable.

Hopefully I can improve by Canada Day.
(oh yeah, out of focus on most too!)
I used manual mode with Bulb shutter and manual focus, (i tried to prefocus but guess I missed there as well)



1
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll23/Dslrchat/fw1.jpg
2
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll23/Dslrchat/fw2.jpg
3
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll23/Dslrchat/fw3.jpg

[nnowack]

I too find it difficult to photograph fireworks. For me, it's the smoke for the explosion that gets in the way. I've found I like the results more with blurs and just trying random stuff where I don't get the entire firework in the frame. Try shaking the camera and making your own trails. Zoom in, or crop afterwards. I guess it's all preference. Did you use a tripod?

[dslrchat]

Thanx for your tips, yes I did use a Tripod, but I am quickly learning that I need a better more stable one.

[Digital Dave]

Fireworks are difficult.
These arent too bad, I think your expectations may have been a bit high.

[morbidtacos]

I personally feel that they look amazing. Like he /\ said though, I think your expectations were a bit high.

[dslrchat]

Thanx everyone.
I guess I should not have spent 4 days preparing lol.
I should be more relaxed for next time.
I am looking forward to trying again.

[JoeyBowman]

They really dont look that bad. It sucks that they dont last long, its kind of annoying, especially when it gets really smoky!!!

[xstacy]

Hey! How did I miss the fireworks? :rolleyes:
Considering it was your first time....I think you did great!!! :p

[Chiller]

Nothing wrong with these shots. I think the exposures are good.
When I shot fireworks, I use my "bulb" setting, and wait for the "thunk, thunk thunk, " sound of the fireworks setting off. I release the shutter, wait for a few bursts in the sky, and shut it down. I missed a lot, as I was not sure where the fireworks would light up the sky. :mad:
Nicely done

[Johnny O]

Thanx for your tips, yes I did use a Tripod, but I am quickly learning that I need a better more stable one.

a stable tripod is key to any long exposure, but one thing that will help as well is a remote shutter release. you'd be surprised at how much your camera can move just by pressing the shutter on the camera with your finger. plus, most remote releases are cheap these days.

[rmh159]

I think what makes a fireworks shot REALLY interesting... is more dependant upon what else is in the frame besides the fireworks. Like if you can get some cool reflections off of water or a glass building.

These aren't bad though and you have to keep positive about any experience. Even if you didn't get the shots you imagined... hopefully you learned something that will get you further towards your potential next time.

[dslrchat]

I received my trigger today ( a cheap ebay IR trigger) but should help out.
I am going to try and hit Niagara Falls this summer as they do fireworks every weekend.