Here comes the smoke show! We love a good smoke bomb photo and according to our Instagram, we aren’t the only ones. Whether you use them for engagement photos, as a fun getaway, or just set them off to add some color to your portraits, the effect is undeniable. We always get questions about smoke bombs and how they work, so let’s cover the basics!
Do smoke bombs stain?
Yes, they can. And the sparks can also burn if you aren’t careful. Set them off in the distance and get some help from a vendor or friend. Something to think about when you’re planning on when and how to use smoke bombs in your day!
How long do they last?
You’ll want to be photo-ready—the longest ones last about 90 seconds! And once you pull the trigger, it takes up to 10 seconds to fully release.
Can you use smoke bombs at night?
Yes! In fact, the effect can be REALLY cool. Just make sure you have some good backlighting to capture the mood.
What about safety?
Be aware of high winds and inhaling the smoke. You should also consider crowds and highly flammable areas. Bring a metal bucket to drop used smoke bombs and a bottle of water to make sure they’re fully extinguished.
What should I say to my photographer?
See if your photographer has worked with smoke bombs before! There are a few tricks of the trade and ideas they may have to capture that perfect shot. You can even do a few practice rounds before lighting the plumes! If you have any photos for inspiration (ahem, plenty of which are below!), be sure to send those over ahead of time.
Where can I buy smoke bombs?
Several photographers recommend these wire pull smoke grenades because they burn cool, not hot. Cool burning bombs are ideal if you plan on holding them and not setting them off in the background. You can also check out Smoke Effect and Shutter Bombs.
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And now, without further ado, here are the smoke bomb photos you HAVE TO SEE. Save ’em, love ’em, get inspired—and then go make your own!
SMOKE IN THE CITY
photo: Damien Milan via Nouba
DESERT SUNRISE
photo: Katie Pritchard // planner: Details, Darling
RAINBOW CONNECTION
photography: D.Lillian Photography // event design: Ashley Smith Events
see more from this Tropical Garden Wedding
LEAD THE WAY
photography: Heirlume Photography // event design: LB Event Planning
see more from this Modern Greenhouse Wedding
UP IN SMOKE
photo (and top photo): Bella Leigh Photography
GO GREEN
photo: With Love by Georgie
IT’S A MOOD
photo: Jason Corroto // dress: Sant Elia Custom Gown // florals + styling: The Make Haus
SMOKE BOMBS + MIRRORS
photography: Mari Sabra Phtotgraphy // event design: Ashton Events // florals: Ashton Events
see more from this Backyard Marsh Wedding
TRUE COLORS
photo: Bruna Kitchen Photography // planning + styling: Bridérie & Co // florals: Studio Tersilla // dress: a&bé bridal // makeup: Beauty Made to Stay // hair: Hair by Leslie Barajas
DESERT DREAM
photo: Melissa Marshall // planning: April Kirby
see more from this Surprise Proposal in the Salt Plains
IN THE CLOUDS
photo: Mandi Lynn Photography // flower crown: Shindig Chic // venue: Highland Springs Ranch // dress: Grace Loves Lace
HEARTS ON FIRE
photography: wild whim design + photography // planning: LB Events and Design // florals: Wildflowers Floral Design
see more from this Sweet Southwestern-Inspired Wedding
LIGHT IT UP
photo: Mathias Fast
Have fun with this one!!