It’s now four days since Bonfire Night. My ears have just stopped ringing, but my clothes still smell of smoke and I’m still finding debris from firecrackers in my pockets. It is fair to say that bonfire night in Lewes is not like any other.
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| Pirates! f3.5 @1/80th ISO 2500 |
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| Firecrackers at the ready! f3.5 @ 1/80th ISO 2500 |
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| f4 @1/1000th ISO 2500 |
The Lewes Bonfire Societies spend all year preparing for this night and it shows. The first part of the event is a parade through the narrow streets by the various bonfire societies, all trying to outdo each other with the biggest and boldest displays. An estimated 60,000 people cram into Lewes for the night and much fun is had by all. The sounds of the drums, pipes and other bands is punctuated by ‘bonfire boys’ casually tossing the loudest bangers you have ever been temporarily deafened by, along the street. The proximity of the ancient buildings seems to amplify the flash and bang and if you are close enough showers you with paper shrapnel. (Note to self: wear ear plugs next year)
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| Keeping the punters warm (and out of the way of the procession) f4 @ 1/80th ISO 2500 |
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| Commercial Square Bonfire Society f3.5 @ 1/80th ISO 2500 |
After the parade, each society heads off to its own bonfire to burn its effigy and for a spectacular firework display.
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| Step this way Mr Cameron! f4 @1/80th ISO 2500 |
If you haven’t been before, you may have gathered that this is probably a bit more rowdy than your average bonfire night. The crowds start early and stay late and a fair amount of drinking is involved, but don’t let this put you off. Take sensible precautions, (ear plugs) and you will enjoy a fantastic night which is steeped in history and tradition.
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| Papa Smurf and Daughter f3.5 @1/80th ISO 2500 |
More photos and video at www.flickr.com/photos/do-digital
Find out more about the Lewes bonfire societies at http://www.lewesbonfirecouncil.org.uk/
Photo notes: No flash used here, whats the point when your subject is carrying their very own light source. ISO cranked up to 2500 and manual exposure used. I switched to AI servo focus mode which successfully tracked the subject most of the time. Focusing in low light like this is a real test for the camera so I resisted the temptation to use a large aperture (could have opened up to f1.4) to give me a bit more depth of field. Gear used: Canon EOS 5d mk2 / EF 50mm f1.4
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