A Blast from the Past
Fireworks over the Desert
Hello friends,
Today, I'm sharing a vibrant memory from twenty years ago—a fireworks display over the desert in Surprise, Arizona, captured on July 4th, 2005. It's hard to believe two decades have passed since I set up my camera behind a local shopping center to photograph the show. This image is a wonderful reminder of a classic Fourth of July celebration and the excitement of using a brand-new camera.
The Story Behind the Shot
I remember the warm desert air and the anticipation as I set up my then-new Canon digital camera. I had found a great spot in the desert, just behind a shopping center, with a clear view of where the fireworks would be launched. My goal was to capture the brilliant bursts of color against the dark night sky. It was a thrill to experiment with the new camera, which, I’m happy to say, I still own and it still takes fantastic pictures. This photo brings back the feeling of that warm summer night and the magic of the fireworks.
About Surprise, Arizona
Located in the Phoenix metropolitan area, Surprise, Arizona, is a city that has grown significantly over the years. Even back in 2005, it had a strong sense of community, and the annual Fourth of July fireworks were a major local event. Families would gather in parks and open spaces to watch the sky light up in celebration of Independence Day. The desert landscape provided a unique and dramatic backdrop for the colorful explosions.
The Technical Side
This photo was taken with my Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT using the following settings:
Aperture: ƒ/16.0
Focal Length: 54.0 mm
Shutter Speed: 3 seconds
ISO: 200
What Makes This Shot Special
What I love most about this image is the dynamic energy it captures. The long exposure allowed the trails of light to paint the sky, creating a beautiful interplay of color and movement. The composition, with the multiple bursts at different heights, creates a sense of depth and celebration. It’s a snapshot of a joyful, fleeting moment that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the Fourth of July.
Tips for Capturing Similar Photos
If you want to try your hand at photographing fireworks, here are a few tips:
Use a Tripod: A sturdy tripod is essential to keep your camera perfectly still during the long exposure required.
Use a Slow Shutter Speed: A shutter speed of a few seconds (like the 3 seconds used here) will capture the full burst and light trails.
Set a Narrow Aperture: An aperture like ƒ/16.0 helps to keep the entire scene in sharp focus and prevents the bright fireworks from being overexposed.
Focus Manually: It's often best to set your focus to infinity or manually focus on a distant object before the show begins, as autofocus can struggle in the dark.
Why Photography Matters
For me, photography is a time machine. This photo doesn't just show fireworks; it transports me back to a specific summer night twenty years ago. It holds the memory of a community celebrating together and my own excitement with a new piece of photography gear. It’s a testament to how a single image can preserve a feeling and a moment in time, allowing us to revisit and share it for years to come.
Until next time