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Fireworks are among the more difficult things to photograph. But with some pointers, you should be able to get some good shots.

There are several things you will need. A tripod is essential. You’ll be taking long exposures. Without a tripod, you’ll get camera shake.

A remote shutter release is also required. This will prevent the camera from shaking when you release the shutter. Check with your local camera store for one that will work with your camera. Cable releases are better than wireless ones – unless you intend to be in the picture yourself.

Not all cameras will accept a cable release or a remote control. In that case, you can use your camera’s self-timer.

Your camera must also be able to capture fireworks. You really need a digital SLR or an advanced camera that lets you adjust settings.

But you can try a simple point-and-shoot camera. If it’s all you have, you have nothing to lose. Besides, some models feature a fireworks mode. This might work well for you.

You want to use a low ISO setting – 50 or 100. The ISO setting adjusts the light sensitivity. The higher the setting, the more sensitive the sensor.

This may sound counterintuitive. But higher ISO settings result in noisier photographs. Also, longer shutter speeds and low light increase noise.

Turn your camera’s flash off. The fireworks should provide all the light you need. If you can’t turn your flash off, tape a piece of cardboard over it.

If you can, use your camera’s bulb setting. Otherwise, use a one- or two-second shutter speed.

Now, you may think you need a wide aperture since the sky is dark. You don’t. A narrower aperture will work well. I recommend setting the aperture between f/8 and f/16.

The smaller aperture will prevent overexposure of the fireworks. When they become overexposed, they lose their colour.

Use manual focus if your camera has it. Focus the camera on the fireworks at the beginning of the show. The fireworks will probably take place in the same section of the sky. So you won’t need to focus throughout the show.

If you’re using a point-and-shoot camera, focusing is more difficult. Fireworks mode should take care of the focus. If you don’t have fireworks mode, set your camera to landscape mode. This will focus at infinity.

If you want the fireworks to fill the entire frame, use a 100mm lens (or its digital equivalent) with an SLR. If you want to capture more of the surroundings, use a wider lens. A normal lens should work for this.

If you’re using a point-and-shoot model, you can adjust the zoom to suit your preference.

Scout your location carefully. Look for objects that might create a distraction in the photo. For example, street lights will be more noticeable. That’s because of the long exposure.

Position yourself upwind of the fireworks. Otherwise, your photos will turn out hazy from the smoke. Likewise, remember that earlier fireworks will be clearer. There will be more smoke as the show goes on.

Take lots of shots. You’ll be more likely to capture some good ones. But save some for the finale. Most shows save the best fireworks for last. And experiment with vertical and horizontal shots.

One of the hardest parts will be anticipating the fireworks. Release the shutter when you hear the fireworks ignite. Let go of the button after the last burst of the fireworks, if you’re using the bulb setting.

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