Question when shooting fireworks tonight

[3In2Out]

I plan on using ISO 200 or so, F/8 area, and longer exsposures. Is there any other advice you can give me, of course knowing that there is variables. Also, I really have no idea how close we will be to the fireworks..would I be better off taking my 18-55 or the 55-200VR? Might just carry both to be safe.

[WestCoast]

I'd use a tripod, if you have one handy. And why would you go all the way down to ISO 200 at night?

[herc182]

keep iso as low as possible, put your camera on a tripod and put it on shutter priority. Use bulb mode and place a black piece of card (or whatever) in front of the lens.

click the shutter (so its open) and leave the card in front of the lens. when the fireworks are exploded, remove card. when you are happy, place card back in front and press shutter button again (with a remote trigger if available). you could continue to do this to get multiple fireworks on one picture.

use RAW mode too.

[wilson44512]

how do you get bulb in a d40? i cant find it in the manual

[jcon]

Tripod, F12-F13, 10-15 second shutter speed, use timer(i prefer 10 second timer to reduce any shake). I have used these settings for the past 2 years for new years and 4th of July fireworks with outstanding results.

Oh and take your 18-55, you dont need reach for fireworks.

Here are a couple samples I took last year for New Years.

http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q253/jconjason/DSC_6308cropwm.jpg

http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q253/jconjason/DSC_6307cropwm.jpg

[mugsisme]

Jason, those are really awesome!

If you put the D40 into S mode, you can turn the dial until you get bulb. It is there. Just keep turning.

[jcon]

Thank you, Leah! I really appreciate the kind words. I just finished going through all the pictures I took of the fireworks tonight and I will post a few tomorrow, I still need to watermark them, and I am too tired right now:D