Videoing Sparklers

Videoing sparklers can be quite challenging if you are new to it.  However, with a few tips and some practice, you can be a pro in no time.

Camera Settings

You should have your camera set up somewhere between 800 and 1200 ISO.  Your shutter speed should be set around 125 and your aperture should be between 2.8 and 3.5.  Your s stop can also be between 2.8 and 3.5.  Your zoom lens should be set up between 35 and 50 as the focal length.  For your specific camera, start here and make your adjustments.

Tips to Capture the Video

One of the best tips, is to use a gimbal.  This will help you keep steady as you are moving around and possibly walking backwards.  When you pass the sparklers out to the guests, make sure they do not light them right away, they need to wait for your direction.  Before you start the sparkler exit, discuss it with the bride and groom and see if they would like to pause for a kiss or a dip in the middle of the exit.  Make sure you purchase large sparklers that will last in case you need to send the bride and groom back through the exit again.

Dealing with Guests

Dealing with the guests at the end of the night can be one of the hardest things about shooting a sparkler exit.  Make sure you are speaking loudly and clearly and that you have everyone’s attention.  This can be especially hard at the end of the night if there is alcohol involved.  Make sure the guests form two lines, creating a tunnel type area for the bride and groom to pass through.  Instruct them to hold the sparklers out and as high as they can so there is no risk of someone being burned.  Also let them know if the bride and groom are going to pause at any time.  Finally let the guests know how they can dispose of the sparklers after the exit is over.