Cheat sheet · Night & astro

Camera settings for fireworks

Use a tripod, low ISO and bulb exposures of 2–8 seconds timed to each burst.

ModeManual or Bulb
Aperturef/8–f/11
Shutter2–8 sOpen at launch, close after the burst
ISO100–200
FocusManual, pre-focused on first bursts
White balanceDaylight
StabilisationOff
Quick start: Use a tripod, low ISO and bulb exposures of 2–8 seconds timed to each burst.

Starting exposures#

Typical scene brightness for this situation is around EV 3. Use these as a first test shot, then check the histogram.

ApertureISO 100ISO 400ISO 1600ISO 6400
f/1.41/4 s1/15 s1/60 s1/250 s
f/2.81 s1/4 s1/15 s1/60 s
f/5.64 s1 s1/4 s1/15 s
f/88 s2 s0.5 s1/8 s
f/1115 s4 s1 s1/4 s

Step by step#

  1. Arrive early and frame with a landmark or skyline.
  2. Focus on the first bursts, then switch to manual focus.
  3. Open the shutter at launch; close after 1–3 bursts.
  4. Check the histogram and adjust aperture.

Gear checklist#

  • Tripod
  • Remote release
  • Lens hood
  • Wide to standard zoom

Pro tips#

  • Stand upwind so smoke drifts away from you.
  • A black card over the lens between bursts layers several explosions in one frame.

Common mistakes#

  • Autofocus hunting in the dark.
  • High ISO that blows out the bright trails.
Cityscapes at nightShoot during blue hour on a tripod at f/8 for balanced sky and lights, with sunstars from … Car light trailsLong exposures of 10–30 s turn traffic into rivers of light.…

Frequently asked questions#

What are the best camera settings for fireworks?

Aperture: f/8–f/11 · Shutter: 2–8 s · ISO: 100–200. Use a tripod, low ISO and bulb exposures of 2–8 seconds timed to each burst.

What gear do I need for fireworks?

Tripod, Remote release, Lens hood, Wide to standard zoom.

Last updated October 03, 2026 · How we calculate · Sources