Three tips for great parade photos

Yearly outdoor events like parades serve as perfect opportunities for photographers both to practice and document important events in their community. Veterans’ Day parades, for example, offer photographers a unique chance to honor those who served and capture the spirit of patriotism, pride, and remembrance. But as much as these events are rich with emotional moments, vibrant scenes, and traditions, they also present certain challenges for photographers: crowded spaces, fast-paced action, and ever-changing light. 

Here are three tips to help you photograph parades more effectively, with the added bonus of making sure you enjoy the celebration yourself. 

1. Capture candid emotions and small details.

While wide shots of the parade can capture the grandeur of the event, some of the most moving photos often lie in the smaller, intimate moments. Veterans proudly wearing their medals, families waving flags, children’s faces lighting up as floats pass by—these small details create a story that resonates. 

How to approach it: 

Use a zoom lens like a 70-200mm, which allows you to capture expressions and details from a distance without getting too close to disrupt the moment. Look for authenticity. Parades are a natural blend of joy, pride, and nostalgia, so look out for unposed moments: a family honoring a veteran, veterans greeting each other with respect, or a child in awe. 

Highlight symbols of patriotism like flags, banners, and uniforms. These elements can make images both visually and emotionally impactful, adding a layer of meaning to your shots. 

Quick tip: 

Try keeping your camera on burst mode. Parades are dynamic, so capturing several frames in quick succession can help you select the perfect moment without worrying about motion blur or missing a fleeting expression. 

2. Embrace movement and framing for storytelling.

Parades are a visual spectacle, filled with motion, colors, and vibrant energy. Freezing the moment can be powerful, but incorporating movement through panning or intentional framing can make your images feel alive. Since parades flow along a path, positioning yourself thoughtfully along the route is essential for the best framing. 

How to approach it: 

Position strategically. Scout out a spot where you’ll have an unobstructed view of the parade, but also consider background elements. For instance, if you’re near a notable landmark, including it in your shots can make your images more compelling. Use panning techniques to create a sense of motion, especially if there are moving elements like floats, marching bands, or veterans on motorcycles. Try setting a slightly slower shutter speed, around 1/30 or 1/60, and move your camera along with the subject. This adds a beautiful blur to the background, conveying energy. 

Frame thoughtfully to give context. Include onlookers or flags lining the route to add depth and show how people are gathered in unity. 

Quick tip: 

If you’re capturing a marching band, experiment with the timing to catch synchronized steps or instruments raised in unison. These details make for powerful shots that communicate the event’s spirit. 

4. Adapt to changing lighting conditions. 

Outdoor parades mean dealing with all kinds of natural light, from bright midday sun to shadows cast by buildings, trees, or overcast skies. Veterans Day parades often take place around mid-morning or early afternoon, when sunlight is strongest, so managing light and exposure can be challenging. 

How to approach it: 

Set your white balance manually for consistency, as changing light can make colors look inconsistent. Many photographers use the “cloudy” setting to add warmth to outdoor shots. Consider exposure compensation. Bright uniforms and reflective objects can easily cause overexposure, so try adjusting your exposure by -1/3 to -1 stop to preserve details, especially in bright areas. 

Use fill flash or reflectors if shadows are harsh, particularly on veterans’ faces or banners. A gentle flash can soften shadows, giving a more polished, balanced look. 

Quick tip: 

If the light is particularly harsh, shoot from a lower angle. This often puts your subject’s face in better light and captures the sky as a backdrop, which can enhance patriotic symbolism in your photos. 

Bonus: Enjoy the festivities and be present! 

As you take photos, remember the significance of the day. Veterans Day parades honor the selfless service and sacrifices made by those in uniform, and it’s essential to capture this respect in your work. Take a moment to engage with the crowd, thank veterans, and enjoy the festivities—it’s a celebration of gratitude and unity that everyone, especially photographers, can be part of. 

If you didn’t get a chance to photograph a Veterans Day parade, don’t worry—these tips are valuable for any parade! With Thanksgiving just around the corner, there are sure to be festive parades celebrating community, tradition, and the start of the holiday season. Whether you’re capturing giant balloons, holiday floats, or marching bands, remember to embrace the energy, connect with your subjects, and enjoy the experience. Parades are a wonderful opportunity to practice capturing lively, meaningful moments—and to spread a little holiday cheer through your photos.