Have you flipped through hundreds of racing magazines and seen many race pictures of some of the fastest machines on the planet who are fighting for the last inch track. You say that the next time you go to a race, you will take a camera and return home with photos like these. But how?
1) Make a DSLR
Although the equipment may quit playing a relatively minor role for many types of photography out there, motorsports is one of the few exceptions act. For example, the camera pocket a small point and shoot when in the right hands can potentially capture a landscape more beautiful than a beginner can with a cutting edge DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex), but all these rules go out the window when the motorcycle roars by at nearly 200 mph: You need a DSLR. Or, specifically, the speed and responsiveness of a DSLR. The main features that come into play is a high frames per second shooting mode, autofocus high speed, and virtually no shutter lag. The faster the better of the above, although an entry-level DSLR these days will do the job. The end higher, faster DSLR will only make your job easier. As for lenses, of course, the longer zoom range that you have more options available for you, but that does not mean having a short lens means that it is impossible. Work with what you have, and do not spend time thinking about what you do not has.
2) know the track
Unless you went to the track several times, it is important to explore the track as best as possible to achieve good places to shoot potential. If you've never been to a racetrack, first of all, it's easy to be caught off guard by just how big a band can be. In some cases, starting from one end of the runway to the other can easily be a walk of 20 minutes or more. When it's time to shoot the race, you want to know exactly where you can go after finishing grabbing all the photos you want in a particular location. If you're ready, you want to get stuck in the same place all the time or losing several laps (or possibly even the rest of the race) to walk around trying to find another place to shoot from. A weekend of racing usually will include training sessions for the drivers. You can use them as their practice sessions as well.
3) About the Sport
Though is not necessarily imperative to have thorough knowledge of the sport to take great pictures, which can probably help make a difference, or at least reduce the learning curve a little. Back to the example of motorcycle racing. Looking to get a picture of drag racers knees? The relatively tight, high-speed curve is your best bet. How about a knight hidden below under the windshield? Stay away from braking areas where they need to sit down to prepare for the entry of corner. Want to grab a stand-up wheelie shot? Nobody will do any celebratory antics in the middle of a race, then wait until the end.
Although the above three tips can give you a start principal of sorts, which can not replace the practice and an inevitable amount of trial and error. The first time may prove to be a rude awakening, but when you get more familiar with the speed of their subjects and the capabilities of their equipment, which will join soon. Most importantly, enjoy!
As one can see, there are many factors in getting that perfect motorsport shot. For some inspiration, come visit my site http://www.cornerspeedphoto.com, grab a motorcycle racing wallpaper or two and see my attempts at motorsports photography. Feel free to tell me what you think.
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