Make Fantastic Photos At The Amazing Festival Of Combustion

Want to know how to make fantastic photos at the always amazing Festival Of Combustion at Carrie Furnace on Saturday, Oct. 5th? Read exactly how I photograph the event. Last year I photographed the Festival on behalf of Rivers of Steel and I'll be back again this weekend to do it again.

Last year I came away with so many amazing photos despite the challenges. So, it makes sense to share how I overcame those. Plus, I'd love to offer you advice on how to photograph events like the Festival of Combustion.

The Festival of Combustion

Before we talk about how I photographed it, what is the Festival of Combustion? This event is an annual fundraiser for the Rivers of Steel Heritage Area. It celebrates the industrial heritage of Pittsburgh's past. Additionally, it celebrates the art, craft, and unique makers who use molten metal to create incredible works of art.

This year's event is on Oct. 5th from 1 until 9 pm. It will feature loads of demonstrations, hands-on opportunities to create, entertainment, shopping and food. I truly love this event. The Festival of Combustion is a must do if you want to understand Pittsburgh's past, present, and future.

Photographing the Event

Let's Talk Lenses

Now that you know what it is let's discuss how to photograph it. First, understand that it will be crowded. As a result, you'll want to bring both a pretty wide and fairly long lens. I'm a sucker for my 15mm fisheye. That said, my 24mm was generally wide enough.

On the other end consider bringing a 70-200mm. Of course, if you don't have one then a 135 or 150mm lens will do. In fact, a 90mm will do great too if that's all you have. The reason for this is that some of the demos are fairly far away from the crowd. Therefore, even if you're at the fence you'll want a lens with some reach to get nice tight shots.

What To Focus On

When it comes to what to focus on you're likely to be overwhelmed. First, there are so many things to see and do. So, the opportunities for great photos are only limited by time and your imagination.

Event Demonstrations

The demonstrations including pouring molten metal and glass blowing are must sees.

Additionally, taking a guided tour around Carrie Furnace gives you access to loads of great photo opportunities.

Event Attendees

That said, what I find most fascinating are the people. This includes both the artisans and craftspeople along with the crowd. Look at the photos I took last year. See how my focus on people and their interactions with each other and the attractions create far more interesting photos. Of course, to each their own. However, to capture captivating storytelling photos of the event it's in the faces.

Exposure Settings

During the day your exposure settings might not be an issue. However, there may be exceptions. For example, there are a number of demos that feature fairly bright areas in otherwise dark areas.

Conversely, there are demos involving dark subjects that might be backlit by the sun. So, make sure that you're exposing for what's important.

I don't recommend using auto settings. Instead take some control over your camera and use either manual or a hybrid setting. Then be sure to disagree with your camera if you don't like the results. Remember to add or subtract light to get the results you want.

Nighttime Photography

Nighttime exposure at the event will be totally different. In fact, it presents some great opportunities to experiment with slow shutter speeds and exposing for bright highlights.

In Conclusion

If you want to experience a wonderful event then go to the Festival of Combustion. In addition, if you're a photographer you're going to love taking photos at this event.

To get your best photos make sure to bring lenses with wide apertures. Too, be sure to plan for difficult lighting.

When it comes to subjects at the Festival of Combustion you're all set. From the demos to the tour but especially the amazing people great photos are everywhere. So, if you're ready to create some great pictures at to attend a truly wonderful event then I'll see you on Sat. Oct. 5th at Carrie Furnace for the Festival of Combustion.