Photographing motorsport events like the World Superbike Championship at Donington Park is an exhilarating experience. As a motorsport photographer, you get to capture the speed, the adrenaline, and the sheer excitement of the races. In this blog, I’ll share some tips and insights on how to make the most of your time at Donington Park, focusing on the Melbourne Loop, my favourite spot for slow shutter speed panning shots.
Getting Started in Motorsport Photography
If you’re new to motorsport photography, the first thing you need is the right equipment. A camera with a fast autofocus system and burst mode is essential. I personally use the Canon R7, which is fantastic for capturing high-speed action. Its advanced autofocus system and high frame rate make it perfect for motorsport photography. A zoom lens, like a 70-200mm is ideal for medium range shots, but will leave you needing a little more reach when the action is a bit further away. This is where something like the Sigma 150-600mm f/5.6 - f/6.3 Sport lens is also crucial for capturing those high-speed moments happening at a distance.
When you’re at the track, it’s important to find the best vantage points. At Donington Park, the Melbourne Loop is a fantastic spot. Positioned on the inside of the corner, it allows you to capture the bikes as they lean into the turn, creating dynamic and dramatic shots. This of course is not accessible to members of the public, and is one of the perks of a media accreditation. The slow shutter speed panning technique works wonders here, giving you that beautiful motion blur effect while keeping the subject sharp.
Essential Motorsport Photography Tips
Motorsport Photography Tips: Always keep your camera in continuous autofocus mode to track the fast-moving subjects. Use a slow shutter speed, around 1/60th of a second, to create a sense of motion. Panning with the subject as it moves helps to keep it sharp while blurring the background.
Best Camera for Motorsport Photography: As mentioned, the Canon R7 is an excellent choice. Its fast autofocus system and high frame rate make it ideal for capturing the fast-paced action of motorsports.
How to Get Started in Motorsport Photography: Start by attending local races and practice your skills. Build a portfolio of your best shots and reach out to motorsport teams or media outlets. Networking is key in this industry.
Motorsport Photography Techniques: Experiment with different angles and compositions. Shooting from a low angle can make the bikes look more imposing and dynamic. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your shots.
Motorsport Photography Equipment: Besides a good camera and lens, consider investing in a monopod for stability, especially when using heavy lenses. A rain cover is also essential, as the weather can be unpredictable.
Videography Tips for Capturing the Action
How to Film Motorsports: Use a camera with good video capabilities, such as the Canon R7. Keep your shots steady with a gimbal or tripod, and use a fast shutter speed to capture the action clearly.
Motorsport Videography Tips: Plan your shots ahead of time. Know the track layout and where the best action happens. Use a mix of wide shots and close-ups to tell a compelling story.
Best Camera for Motorsport Videography: The Canon R7 is also great for filming motorsports. It offers excellent video quality and fast autofocus.
Motorsport Videography Techniques: Use slow-motion to capture the details of the action. Panning shots work well in videography too, adding a dynamic element to your footage.
Motorsport Videography Equipment: Besides a good camera, invest in a quality microphone to capture the sounds of the race. A drone can also provide unique aerial shots of the track.
One personal anecdote I’d like to share is how grateful I am for the cooler weather this year. The last two years have been scorching, making it tough to work in the hot sun all day. While great for spectators, the heat creates harsh shadows, making photography more challenging. Direct sunlight can cause overexposed highlights and deep shadows, so it’s essential to adjust your settings accordingly. Using a polarizing filter can help reduce glare and enhance colours.
If you enjoyed these tips and want to see more of my work, follow me on Instagram at @AutosAsArt. For booking inquiries, feel free to contact me through my website. Let’s capture the thrill of motorsport together!
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