Location, location, location. It’s key in real estate and in photography. Before you take a single shot of the colorful mid-air explosions on New Year’s Eve, or any holiday when pyrotechnics are set off, it is very important to scout out the perfect location in which to document the festivities. I know avid photographers who set up camp 10 to 12 hours prior to dusk just so they can secure a prime piece of grass at our local fireworks show.
Obviously, you want to find an area where trees, buildings, or tall wandering festivalgoers do not obstruct your view of the fireworks display. Try to secure a spot on a hill or other elevated area to improve your vantage point. If the fireworks are being set off over a lake or other body of water plan accordingly. The water will reflect the color and intensity of the fireworks so try to include it in your shot. In addition, when shooting fireworks you want to remember the rule of thirds—-where at least two-thirds to three-quarters of the frame is filled with the sky.
In addition, if you happen to be shooting near trees and don’t have the ability to switch spots for a better vantage point, then simply make the best of your situation. Use the tree branches to frame your shot and give it more depth, or incorporate people near the bottom of the frame to create interesting silhouettes. Your best bet is to shoot as much as you can and delete later. Also, I learned this lesson the hard way a few years ago: If you happen to be shooting fireworks on a windy night, position yourself upwind of the fireworks. By doing so you can eliminate wafting smoke that can interfere with your picture taking.
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