Fireworks + Lake = Amazing Photo Op!
I had a blast shooting fireworks this year because, for the first time, I found a display over the water. On July 4, the Island Park Lake Lodge had an awesome display of colorful bursts over the Island Park Reservoir. I love how the light trails look all squiggly in the water. Very cool.
The trick is to find a spot to shoot from where you can get the reflections to show up. Of course, you cannot be too close to the source. I was able to set up my tripod on a dock, so I could be out over the water a bit. Luckily the water was smooth so I did not get too much camera shake. I used the Bulb setting, so I could fire my remote to open and close the shutter. I also increased the sats inside my camera menu under Picture Control. This is a nice way to reduce or eliminate your post production editing. I love how every image is totally unique. There are never two fireworks photos that look just alike. It was a beautiful Fourth of July week in Idaho.
I hope you were able to take some fireworks shots? If so, please comment here and share a link with us!
Ohhhhh yessssssss – BEEEE-UUUUUUU-TTTTTTTT-FULLLLLLLL! These are gorgeous – nicely done – composition flawless! You “are” the teacher!
Thanks, Roberta! It is always great to hear from you. It looks you had a great holiday with family. Nice pics on Facebook. 🙂
These look awesome! You they are very festive and I like the wider shots you got this year of the whole show! Very fun and I like the reflection in the water…
Nice work! You must have followed a tutorial or something. 🙂
Thanks, Dustin. I was excited when I learned about the show over the Lake on July 4. It reminds me of the Rigby lake shots you got. The other Island Park fireworks at Hungry Bear last year were bigger, but they don’t have the lake reflections, and that is hard to beat! I have found that I get rare color when I keep the exposure length under about 8 seconds. Those long 12 second shots seem to make the bursts too white and blown out. Unless they only let off one or two during the exposure. When they let a whole cluster at once it gets too bright. So next time I may try putting on a darkening filter. I just love how each shot is so unique. Reminds me of light painting, but you have no control.
Caryn,
I just stumbled upon your blog spot online-I was searching for info about canoeing the Buffalo River in Island Park and there were your amazing photos! I have a cabin in Island Park and am wondering if you are selling any of the photos that you’ve taken up there (particularly the fireworks-they have been our annual tradition for the last 8 years). If so, please advise on sizes and pricing.
Thanks!
Hello Janice! I am glad you enjoyed some of my photos of Island Park. I will email you some prices and information. I would also be happy to come take photos of your cabin or other areas the next time I am up there. Thanks for stopping by my website/blog!