Focus Pulling For Fireworks

One of my most favorite techniques for photographing fireworks is focus pulling. I love how it makes the fireworks look like flowers or sea creatures.

Focus pulling Fireworks using a narrow aperture

So this requires some skill and pre-planning so you know what you are doing during the light show.

• Camera should be in bulb mode

• You will hold the shutter open for 1-2 seconds

• Lens should be in manual focus

• Press the shutter button when you first see the firework

• Start out of focus and turn your ring on your lens to infinity until you are in focus with the shutter open

• You can play around with aperture and starting in focus and moving out as well.

Focus pulling fireworks using a wide aperture