ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

5 Creative Fireworks Photography Techniques by Kate Garibaldi

other · 2026-07-04

PetaPixel published a guide by photographer Kate Garibaldi detailing five techniques for creative fireworks photography. The methods include high-speed freeze (1/250-1/1000 sec, f/2.8-f/5.6, ISO 400-800), pull-focus during 3-6 sec exposures at f/16, wide-angle storytelling with landmarks at f/8-f/11 and 2-8 sec exposures, multi-exposure stacking using Photoshop's Lighten blend mode (ISO 100-400, f/8-f/11, 1-4 sec), and an in-camera black cardstock technique in Manual/Bulb mode (ISO 100, f/11-f/16, 30-45 sec). Garibaldi demonstrated the cardstock method while photographing Fourth of July fireworks over New York City in 2013. The article emphasizes experimentation over technical precision.

Key facts

  • Kate Garibaldi authored the guide for PetaPixel.
  • High-speed freeze uses shutter speeds 1/250-1/1000 sec.
  • Pull-focus technique uses 3-6 second exposures at f/16.
  • Wide-angle storytelling uses f/8-f/11 and 2-8 second exposures.
  • Multi-exposure stacking uses Photoshop Lighten blend mode.
  • Black cardstock technique uses Manual/Bulb mode, ISO 100, f/11-f/16, 30-45 sec.
  • Garibaldi photographed Fourth of July fireworks over NYC in 2013.
  • PetaPixel is an independent photography publication.

Entities

Artists

  • Kate Garibaldi

Institutions

  • PetaPixel
  • KEH.com
  • Moment
  • FJ Westcott
  • Blue Moon Camera and Machine

Locations

  • New York City
  • United States

Sources