have been a huge trend in weddings for years and in 2021, I don't think I attended a single wedding that didn't have them. I have even had couples bring them to engagement shoots, so I don't think they are going anywhere soon.
AND I BLOODY LOVE THEM!
Despite lots of people using them, the photos are always so different as everyone reacts differently when you shove a flaming smoke grenade in their hand.
So in this short blog I will give my top tips on getting the most out of your smoke bombs if you're considering having them.
LETS GO!
you need to provide them.
Basically I am not insured to buy "pyrotechnics" and ask you and your loved ones to hold them. I will always give a safety brief before we start and make sure everyone understands how and where to hold them. Your photographer can advise where to buy them. I always suggest getting them from either Enola Gaye or a store on Amazon.
Links are below to the two places I recommend.
check your venue allows them
Most venues will allow them but it worth checking as I have been to a handful who have asked we leave the premises. Again this will be down to their insurance. Listed building venues are likely to not allow them. If we know before the day we can look for a suitable alternate location and then you will need to allow time for this in the running of your day.
buy more than you need
Occasionally one will just not go off so I always advise to buy an extra 2. Worst case if you have them left over you can use them again later OR save them for a 1 year anniversary shoot. They will flare for approx 90 seconds.
choose YOUR COLOURS
Most smoke bombs are bright colours and you want them to be seen so I would avoid white as it will just look like you are stood near a bonfire... Opt for colours that compliment your day.
CHOOSE YOUR CREW
Decide before the day who you want to do the photos with. Your wedding party, uni pals, just the girls etc. Or maybe just you as a couple. Once I have everyone in place I would avoid giving them to people who are not very drunk for obvious reasons...
Image taken while second shooting for Gingerjams Photography at Bassmead Manor Barns.
WALK AND DANCE
I usually line people up and ask you to walk towards me, sing and shout your fave song and dance. This will usually provoke lots of natural laughter and that's what I am after!
the most beautiful chaos
Otherwise, run around a field and let the chaos unfold, scream, laugh, jump and dance like this lot did. It was very windy and the walking stuff just didn't pan out so I shouted "just go mad" and they did not let me down.
Photos taken at Alex and Kate's wedding at Norfolk Mead, Hotel in Norfolk, UK.
couples shoots
If you wanna bring some colour to a couples shoot - let's do it! Always let your photographer know you are bringing them so we can find a secluded area to use them. Away from animals and the general public.
Couples shoot with Ella and Saff at Sandringham Woods, Norfolk - UK.
use of light
They can work great with light - as seen here with Marilyn and Roland's couple shoot in the woods. This was a very quiet and unused area of the woods. I am usually against doing shoots in the middle of the day when the sun is so bright and harsh, but in the woods the light is often so much softer and more forgiving.
As the sun peeked through the trees at the perfect moment the smoke bombs had their moment to shine! So dreamy!
there are always risks
Everything like this comes with a risk. I always give a safety briefing before they're lit and ultimately it is YOUR choice to use them. They sometimes get warm / hot to hold. They smell strongly of smoke [shocking I know], but if you are sensitive to this or asthmatic this should be considered. I myself have been set off coughing when using them. The smell will disperse in a
few minutes but can linger on clothing. You can stain your clothing with them and if put against clothing they can burn a hole in fabric! This is why I ask the couple to walk a few steps ahead of the party holding them.
Below is Kate - one of my beautiful 2023 Brides and some ash fell from one of the pink bombs and landed on her train. Burning a hole in it and staining it pink. I remember I held my breath and waited for her reaction.... "oh well I'm never wearing it again and I've had a great time so..." But I love her husband's face in the background! Poor Alex.
safe disposal
It will tell you on the box or packet how to dispose of safely. I am usually happy to take them away with me and get rid of them but check with your photographer. I always carry an empty metal biscuit tin to place them in if they are hot so they cool down. Never leave them lying in grass [especially if it's dry grass]. If I am at a venue I will ask them if they have a place to dispose of them otherwise I bring them home with me.
Thanks for reading this far and I hope this has given you some smoke bomb inspiration and ideas.
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