Taking Good Fireworks Pics on Your Phone

Honestly, you probably won't be able to get a picture this cool with your phone. Maaaaybe... But probably not. Phone cameras are getting better each year, with fancier processing algorithms and computer wizardry, but you're still not going to beat a nice DLSR with a tripod and large aperture lens. Most of us won't be dragging that kind of gear out to the fireworks show. So, if you're using your phone, here are a few tips:

• Even if you don't have a tripod for your phone, using a selfie stick or balancing your phone on a stable surface (picnic table? car hood, a passed out friend?) helps hold your phone still. The less you wiggle around, the better your chance of a decent, low-light shot.
• Turn off the flash and use your phones version of landscape mode.
• If you know how to dig into your phones more advanced features, see if you can adjust your ISO settings. ideally around 100.
• Don't waste a lot of time trying to achieve Insta-perfect fireworks shots on your phone camera, but maybe enjoy the moment. :)