Now this is a wedding trend I don’t see disappearing anytime soon! Over the last few years using smoke bombs have become so popular and pictures of them being used at weddings are always all over social media. As a photographer I think they are so much fun, I love how colourful they look and the drama the smoke produces. My couples always ask me about using smoke bombs so here are my top tips for using smoke bombs at weddings.

FIRST THINGS FIRST – BE SAFE!

Without sounding dramatic, smoke bombs are classed as pyrotechnics. When pulled, sparks can be emitted so it’s essential to be careful whilst using them and ignite by pointing it away from you. Open areas and private properties are ideal for these types of photos. Try not to use smoke bombs while drunk and always be careful and don’t pop them on the ground in dry areas so nothing sets on fire.

DISCUSS IT WITH YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER & VENUE

It’s worth mentioning that your photographer will probably not provide the smoke bombs, as they won’t be covered in their insurance due to them being kind of like a firework. Make sure you discuss this with your photographer so they can prep beforehand. If your photographer thinks it’s an unsafe environment to use the smoke bombs they may refuse to shoot them.

Also some venues due to health and safety, will not let you use smoke bombs. Do check with your venue first to avoid disappointment.

WAYS I USE SMOKE BOMBS

I generally like to use smoke bombs in 4 different ways, which give different looks and are all fun to create. I suggest buying a few smoke bombs so you can mix colours and have a couple of attempts at the perfect shot.

1. Holding them, just me careful as they may get hot and may stain.
2. Pop them behind you for a colourful cloud effect.
3. Use them at night
4. Get your bridal party involved.

WHERE CAN I BUY SMOKE BOMBS?

I recommend buying the Enola Gaye WP40’s, they come in a range of 9 colours that are super vibrant. These seem popular among most photographer as they are non toxic and a medium size. Enola Gaye class the WP40’s as smoke grenades, they are simple to use as they just has a wire ring pull and they roughly last around 60-90 seconds. However it is worth mentioning again that they may stain, this has never happened to me personally but they are made partly by colour dyes. If this something you are worried about, I’d suggest using them behind you.

Enola Gaye do a range of different smoke bombs so it’s worth checking out which one will suit your needs. On their site they also recommend the slightly larger EG18 for wedding photography, that puts out 150% more smoke than the WP40. These also come in 9 colours and are non toxic however I’ve never used these personally and I would presume are more expensive.

If you are planning a colourful wedding and want a fun photographer that can take awesome smoke bomb photos get in touch! I’d love to hear all about your plans.

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