Photographing the annual ‘Light Up Lancaster‘ weekend was extra challenging with heavy rain on Friday night. I got soaked to the skin in pursuit of some rewarding photos, the only thing that stayed dry was my camera which enjoyed the protection of it’s special waterproof cover!

Friday night was a curious mix of illuminated projections on key city centre buildings, a touch of street theatre and some thoroughly sound effects.

All aglow… Lancaster’s Judges Lodgings museum.

Alternating coloured window illuminations at the Judges Lodgings was accompanied by some very brave musicians who managed to play and sing despite the downpour! The very wet pavement was a bonus though in reflecting the lights and adding interest to the shot. Most certainly a tripod job.

The City Museum takes on a new look.

The projection on the City Museum was my highlight, but was difficult to photograph and not quite making the full intended appearance of a set of scales.

A different angle and people.

Sometimes including people and movement brings a photo alive.

The following evening was time to select my viewpoint for the big annual fireworks display at Lancaster Castle. For the first time in several years I opted for Derwent Road, which gives a great rooftop view of the city, with the Castle in the middle.

Zooming in on the castle.

The Castle ramparts take on a fiery glow during the display with my zoom on max (300mm) for this shot.

Fireworks paint the city red.

Successfully photographing fireworks is extremely difficult. My thinking is to first find a good spot, where there are no foreground obstructions and where you can make use of the surrounds. Use a sturdy tripod and set the camera to a fairly high ISO (I selected mostly 800) and as fast a shutter a speed as possible.

Smoke reflects the light to give a hazy glow to the castle

Nice colours and a great city view

Timing is critical. You want to catch the firework at it’s explosive best so think ahead. Be careful not to have a shutter speed too slow as it will turn the fireworks into long streaks of light which won’t look natural. Avoid overexposure which will dilute the colour and turn the fireworks into a solid blob. If using a zoom (there isn’t really time to change lenses) go for variety, near and far. And finally, bare in mind the the most concentrated part of the display usually comes at the end. If you have the option, shoot RAW.

My favourite fireworks shot this year has drama and colour, as well as makes good use of the castle.

I hope you have enjoyed my review of Lancaster’s night-time displays and it has given you something to think about when you are out and about with your camera.

NEXT TIME… Autumn at Samlesbury Hall.