
Here comes the smoke show! We love a good smoke bomb photo and according to the reaction to this photo, 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. After setting the smoke bomb down, if you are 2-3 feet away and just standing in the smoke cloud, it should NOT stain your clothing or anything for that matter. They can stain the ground though if left on their sides…definitely something to think about when you’re planning on when and how to use smoke bombs in your day. If you plan to use on your wedding day, we recommend doing a test run prior to the wedding day (not in your wedding clothes!!!) just to make sure the ones you bought don’t stain.
How long do smoke bombs 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.
Are smoke bombs safe?
Definitely be aware of high winds (if there are high winds you won’t want to use them) and inhaling the smoke. You should also consider crowds and highly flammable areas. You should be in an open area outdoors and avoid any areas that are overly dry and susceptible to catching fire. Bring a metal bucket to drop used smoke bombs and a bottle of water to make sure they’re fully extinguished. Let’s be safe + smart out there!!
How should I plan with 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.
Can you use smoke bombs in public?
Smoke bombs are considered a firework and therefore are banned in many local and national parks. This might also apply to your venue, so do research in advance to make sure you are allowed to use them for your photos. By the way, this also means you can’t fly with smoke bombs in your luggage!
Where can I buy smoke bombs for photography?
We recommended these two companies:
Both of these companies sell wire pull smoke bombs (you don’t need to light anything, just pull the wire) and they burn cool, not hot. Plus these smoke bombs were made for smoke bomb photographers! And the part we love? These smoke bombs are non-toxic smoke with a fully biodegradable body.
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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
It’s a stunning photo without the smoke bombs, but add those deep purple plumes?! Magic!
photo: Damien Milan via Nouba
Desert Sunrise
The cactus stemming from the orange clouds and the totally chic couple front and center? It’s SO good.
photo: Katie Pritchard planner: Details, Darling
Rainbow Connection
A forever favorite! The rainbow smoke bomb lineup is such a statement.
photography: D.Lillian Photography event design: Ashley Smith Events
see more from this Tropical Garden Wedding
Lead the Way
These two led their guests from the ceremony to the reception with smoke bombs at the forefront!
photography: Heirlume Photography event design: LB Event Planning
see more from this Modern Greenhouse Wedding
Up in Smoke
Color is fun, but these black bombs in the desert are so rad!
photo (and top photo): Bella Leigh Photography
Go Green
Who wouldn’t want to be framed by emerald clouds?
photo: With Love by Georgie
It’s a Mood
LOVE this one because it’s proof that a smoke bomb can also be subtle and create a whole moody vibe!
photo: Jason Corroto dress: Sant Elia Custom Gown florals + styling: The Make Haus
Smoke Bombs + Mirrors
How the colored bombs reflect off the water! So cool!
photography: Mari Sabra Photography event design: Ashton Events florals: Ashton Events
see more from this Backyard Marsh Wedding
True Colors
The ombre effect forms the COOLEST backdrop to an already show-stopping photo!
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
All black, baby.
photo: Melissa Marshall planning: April Kirby
see more from this Surprise Proposal in the Salt Plains
In the Clouds
Green to blue, for me it’s you.
photo: Mandi Lynn Photography flower crown: Shindig Chic venue: Highland Springs Ranch dress: Grace Loves Lace
Hearts on Fire
What a way to make an exit, right?
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
Smoke bombs at night. It doesn’t get any cooler than this!
photo: Mathias Fast
Ive used smoke bombs a few times here in Northern Ireland. However Ive heard lately that we actually need to get a licence to use them in Northern Ireland due to them being a ‘firework’
Great article! Loved this idea for a wedding.
I wish all people will be so happy. Some rules is can be good for family. Classic life is better than adventures. I think we have to respect eachother
Wow, very great work! 😍
Now i want to take some picture with smoke bombs… thanks for this very nice inspiration <3
Incredible pieces of work, love it.
Very wonderful ideas. Thank you for sharing!
Wow these are all beautiful!!! Thankyou for the tips :)
Wow great pictures. And very brave to use these smoke bombs on a real wedding day ;) Great inspiration, thx.
What a great idea for a weddingshoot.
Wow! Very Beautiful pictures! Its Amazing
thank you for your plan of my wedding, your ideas is very help full to us, we all puchbags for our wedding as well
They are really amazing. You can see happiness from their faceses. I wish you will be so happy :)
Best wedding dresses are here ! And they are really look lıke prince and princess. I wish they will make so many children and they will be so happy
Amazing wedding pictures… Congratulations you look lıke dream
Perfect details and what gorgeous day.
Absolutely perfect photos. I congratulate you for this. You did a great job.