Colored smoke enhances your car photo shoot – what you really need to know about it!
In this article from pajewski-photography I would like to share with you my experience from my first car photoshoot with this colorful highlight from BS-pyrotechnik.
Things that seem obvious may not be, and many things you may not think about.
For those of you who are thinking about organizing such a shooting, this article might give you some helpful tips and food for thought. &
What smoke I used
First of all, I would like to mention that I buy my smoke bombs from a fireworks retailer. This way I can be sure that the materials used are legal and of the right quality.
I use different colored fogs with a long smoking time. Currently I have experience with the colors blue, green, yellow and orange. Depending on car and location you should be flexible, because not every color fits to every car color.
These grenades have a year-round approval. Attention: this means that you are allowed to use the smoke itself, but you still have to consider some things.
I bought my first flares at BS-pyrotechnik. Have a look at it.
copyright by pajewski-photography
Smoke flares from BS-pyrotechnik
How to deal with the fog
To begin with, I always follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions.
If you shoot with smoke, you have to find out beforehand when and where the shooting will take place.
If the location is on a private or company property, you should get a permit beforehand to avoid conflicts later on. small hint: have it in writing! &
Do not use the smoke in public places filled with people or in closed rooms. Keep in mind that use can leave smoke and odor traces!
if the shooting takes place outdoors, please consider the wind direction. you should know exactly where to place your smoke flares to create the right effect for your photography.
The strength of the wind can ruin your shooting or create the perfect look.
Caution is advised
If you are planning to organize a shooting with black or white smoke, then you should definitely contact the fire department beforehand and inform them about the time and place.
Because if the fire department has to be called out because of you, it can quickly become unpleasant and expensive. I think everyone has an idea of how much a firefighting operation can cost, which can be avoided with just one call. &
What happens after the shooting?
After the shooting something very important happens.
We, as photographers, should always remember that this kind of image creation creates waste that we have to dispose of properly ourselves.
The smoke flares are still hot for a long time after burning and should therefore not be disposed of directly in public trash cans.
Always have a bucket and a bottle of water with you to put the flares out of harm’s way after they burn down.
If you have any questions, feel free to use the comment function (link to contact). &