Photography Smoke Bombs vs Smoke Machines

So, you want to get creative. Great! Smoke or fog can transform an ordinary photoshoot into something extraordinary. Too, it adds mystery, drama, and cinematic atmosphere. That said, when planning a smoky scene, one big question arises: Should you use smoke bombs or fog machines?

This guide breaks down the pros and cons of both. As such, we'll look at environmental and safety concerns. Then, we'll check out creative ways to use each tool to enhance your photography.

Smoke Bombs vs Fog Machines: What's the Difference?

Smoke bombs and fog machines both create airborne effects. However, each of them work differently. Therefore, read this entire article carefully and bookmark/share it. 

What Are Smoke Bombs?

Smoke bombs are single-use canisters that emit thick, colorful smoke for 30–90 seconds. As a result, they’re ultra-portable and often used in outdoor portrait, wedding, and cosplay photography. Additionally, they're often sold around the Forth of July and Halloween in the US. Therefore, this is a great time to buy some if you're interested in trying them out.  

What Are Fog Machines?

Fog machines are electric devices that produce a mist-like vapor using fog fluid. Unlike smoke bombs, they’re reusable. As a result, they're ideal for creating atmospheric haze in indoor or controlled outdoor environments.

Like their smoke bomb cousins you can create fog of different colors. Alternatively, use colored gels or LED lights to add pops of color. 

Beware of Wind

No matter which of them you choose beware of wind. After all, wind can and will carry your smoke off. Therefore, you need to plan for how to contain it. Keep this in mind while location scouting.

Pros and Cons of Smoke Bombs

Pros

• Portable and easy to use There are no power sources required

• Available in many colors which gives you creative control

• Quick setup and dramatic effect in seconds

• Great for outdoor shoots and dynamic scenes

Cons

• Single-use and can be costly per shoot

• Short duration typically they last for less than 90 seconds

• Can stain skin, clothes, or surfaces - including concrete and wood so be careful

• Fire risk—they emit sparks when ignited 

• Regulations vary and may be banned in parks or public spaces

Pros and Cons of Fog Machines

Pros

• Reusable making them cost-effective over time

• Safe for indoor use (when used with non-toxic fluid)

• Continuous effect sustained fog for longer shoots

• Control over fog density and timing

Cons

• Requires power source and sometimes a warm-up period

• Bulky—less portable than smoke bombs*

• Limited color options unless paired with colored lighting

• May trigger smoke alarms in enclosed spaces

*Today there are smaller battery powered fog machines. However, these work better for more intimate photos. 

Environmental Impact: What You Should Know

Smoke Bombs

Most commercial smoke bombs use potassium chlorate and dyes. As a result, they  leave behind chemical residue. They’re not biodegradable and can contribute to air and soil pollution if used frequently or improperly discarded. Some are marketed as "non-toxic," but they still emit particulate matter. Therefore, they're unhealthy, especially for people with asthma. 

Eco Tip: Choose products labeled as non-toxic and dispose of remnants responsibly. Always avoid using them near wildlife or waterways. Too, never use them in fire-prone areas. 

Fog Machines

Fog fluid is usually a mix of water and glycol or glycerin. These are generally safe when used as directed, but high concentrations can irritate lungs, especially in small, unventilated spaces.

Eco Tip: Use FDA-approved fog fluids and avoid excessive fogging in enclosed or sensitive environments. Look for fog machines with low power consumption.

How to Use Smoke Bombs Creatively in Photography

Tips for Amazing Smoke Bomb Shots

• Use backlighting to make the smoke glow

• Pair with wind to create dramatic movement

• Shoot in bursts by having your subject ready and time it perfectly

• Use color theory and match or contrast smoke color with your subject’s wardrobe

Best Situations to Use Them

• Outdoor portraits

• Conceptual shoots

• Cosplay and fantasy themes

• Engagement or wedding photos for visual flair

How to Use Fog Machines Creatively in Photography

Tips for Fog Photography

• Backlight or sidelight the fog to enhance depth

• Control the space because fog spreads and disperses quickly in open areas

• Use continuous lighting to shape the haze

• Add colored gels to your lights to mimic colored smoke

Ideal Uses for Fog Machines

• Studio portraits

• Theatrical or fashion shoots

• Horror or moody conceptual work

• Music videos or cinematic content

Final Thoughts

Both smoke bombs and fog machines can help you create unforgettable photos. However, they serve different creative needs. So, use smoke bombs for quick, dramatic color outdoors, and fog machines for reusable, atmospheric haze with more control.

Whichever you choose, consider the environmental and safety implications. With thoughtful planning, you can use either tool to capture some of your most powerful images yet.