How to take pictures of fireflies
One of the (few) things I’ve loved about summer since I was a kid are fireflies, also called lightning bugs by some. These little insects will emerge in early summer and float through the dusky dark blinking and flitting about like little sparks.
I recently decided to start experimenting taking pictures of these insects and, it proved to be a larger challenge than I expected.
Many times when you see fireflies in an image they are added in post-production with software like Photoshop. A few of the reasons for this is one, its impossible to predict where the darn things will light up – making a composition almost impossible if it includes something like portraiture.
Second, its just plain easier – and honestly sometimes more impressive looking when its fake. Third, it sure takes less time, less luck and avoids getting bitten by bugs out in the dark.
The thing is on some things I guess I’m just a purist – and I just can’t get myself to add a bunch of fake fireflies in a wooded scene. It just feels like I’m cheating the viewer. Now, if I was doing portrait work and the point of the photo was a person then I think it would be fine to add a few little digital bugs to the shot, why not. But, not for a natural scene, just can’t make myself do it.
So, here is a list o f things you’re going to need to take pictures of fireflies:
- A reasonable fast camera lens (2.8 or faster)
- A dSLR or SLR camera
- Be able to put the camera in (B) bulb setting
- A wireless (or wired) remote
- Stopwatch
- Tripod
- Plenty of time
- Flashlight
- Bug spray or baseball bat for larger critters
Picking out a spot
Before it gets dark decide on a location that looks pleasing to you. Granted most of the shot will be obscured by darkness but, I always want to at least start off with something that is compositionally sound.
Next, setup your tripod and do a few test shots. During this phase make sure you are in focus for the area of the scene you are planning to keep sharp. Afterwards turn auto-focus off. Your camera will try and search the scene again once it gets dark – and that will ruin your focus.
At this point you can do two things. Observe if the firefly patterns are working out in the area you’ve chosen and then – go get a drink, listen to music, pick your nose whatever since at this point you are at the mercy of the sun.
Making images
Ok. Now, its dark outside and you’re ready to start taking some really cool firefly pictures. You’ll want to follow a few steps to get that stunning image.
- Make sure your camera is set to (B) bulb setting
- Turn on or plug in your camera remote
- Start your stopwatch and open the shutter, bracketing your shot to get the best exposure
- Review the shot for interesting light patterns and exposure
Remember, each shot will take just as much time to record to a standard memory card as it took to make the exposure.
Expect to see interesting patterns and swirls as the bugs fly about in their nightly dance. Have fun!
Products that might help you with firefly photography:
Canon RC-6 Wireless Remote Controller for Canon XT/XTi, XSi, T1i and T2i Digital SLR Cameras
Nikon ML-L3 Wireless Remote Control
Pentax 39892 Waterproof Remote Control
