[Above image was added as a resultant image shot from near #3 spot on July 4th 7/23/14]
We are fortunate that one of the best fireworks performance is displayed in Lake Union every July 4th. Despite numerous reports on financial challenges for organizing the fireworks in Lake Union during last couple of years, it has been survived and continued presenting marvelous pyrotechnic performance. This Photo Note covers my experiences regarding shooting spot for this event including the location map and advantage/disadvantage list.
Fireworks shooting is set on a barge anchored at the middle of lake union. The actual location of the barge varies from year to year (even on the day of performance). The fireworks shooting location affects the composition and hence the photo shooting location (specific spot within Gas Works Park for instance) is important to plan ahead. I've shot from following spots in the past several years and following sections include some comments on each spot. Each has positive and negative aspect and the most desired spot needs to be determined based on the final expected image and composition. Obviously, the wind direction during fireworks performance significantly affect the result of photo image quality. It is recommended to find out the general wind direction before move to the shooting spot and be flexible.
Location Maps: Please refer to linked PDF files
For #1 through #3 in Gas Works Park
#1: Near lake shore in Gasworks park. Mostly wide lens is used to capture fireworks trails and space needle.
#2: Top of Kite Hill. Mostly very wide lens is used to capture fireworks and surroundings (Liberty of Stature head, and/or spectators)
#3: Behind (North side of ) Kite Hill primarily capturing telephoto fireworks with spectator foreground.
#4: South part of Alki, West Seattle