Shooting fireworks

[mindchatter]

I have the fundamentals, Use a tripod with shutter set to bulb, and F/11 or abit higher, iso 100, prefocuse to infinity, focusing mode set to manual... Leave bulb open for approx 10 seconds when a shell launch is heard and end it when the explosion is at its fullest.. I know a wide angle lens is best for this but all I have is a kit lens 23-135mm and the 50mm 1.8 on a 40D What lens would be the better performer based on what I have in this situation? Thanks guys

[gecko0]

i will be shooting fireworks for the first time tomorrow night as well. with my limited lens selection, i'll be sticking with the kit lens for the widest shots. IMO 50mm will take you in too close (unless you're extremely far from the fireworks display?). since most shows go on for at least 15-20 min, i might throw on the 50mm for some of it just to compare and test.

.02

[timeasterday]

Lots of stuff here about fireworks. Look down at the bottom of the page under "Similar Threads." The focal length you choose will be dependent on your viewing location. Far away - longer focal length, right under them - wide angle. I don't totally agree with f/11 and infinity focus. I'll be shooting with my 17-40L at f/8 because that's the sweet spot for highest quality, and I'll focus at the hyperfocal distance, or just a bit beyond that point.

[Familiaphoto]

Use your 28-135 so you have some flexibility. Personally, I have never shot fireworks in bulb, but do 2 to 3 sec exposures. Works well for me.

[Gibbo]

I have never shot fireworks, although i know your best lens for the job will be the 28-135 as you don't need the large aperture of 1.8, and the zoom covers the 50mm area of the prime.

[Tigershark]

http://www.usa.canon.com/dlc/control...articleID=1666 (http://www.usa.canon.com/dlc/control...articleID=1666)

[Pete]

It's Fireworks Time (Tips & Techniques) (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=341145)