Fireworks

Abstract fireworks.

As far as I'm aware, the conventional wisdom on shooting fireworks is to lock off your tripod, open the shutter on bulb/other-long-exposure-method and cover the lens in between the nice bursts to stop stray light getting in.

A few years ago, I learned (by forgetting the tripod) that you can get nice abstracts by handholding the camera and opening your shutter for as long as you fancy while the fireworks are in the air. It's very hit and miss, though. Personally, I keep shooting the same way as I like the effect but one of these years, I'll use a tripod and see if I can manage to capture something using the normal method ;)

If you're going to try capturing something like this, I advise using bulb mode rather than having your shutter open on a particular time setting, and open shutter as you see something being launched and shutting it once you think you've got enough firework effect caught. A low ISO and middle aperture worked for me, but I see no danger in experimenting with other settings :)

Hope everyone has fun celebrating