Motorsport Photography: What to Do and What to Watch for on the Track?

5/8/20243 min read

Chasing Speed and Adrenaline – Tips for Capturing Perfect Shots Safely

Motorsport photography is as challenging as it is exciting. With fast-moving vehicles, limited access areas, and rapidly changing moments, photographers must be prepared to capture unique and unforgettable shots. To be a successful motorsport photographer on the track, you need to be both technically and physically ready. Here are some essential tips on what to watch for:

1. Safety Always Comes First

In the world of motorsports, safety is a top priority for everyone. While working trackside, be sure to:

Stay in Designated Areas – Always position yourself in areas specifically designated for photographers. Staying behind barriers is crucial for your safety.
Understand Racing Rules – Be aware of start procedures, red flag situations, and what to do when a safety car is deployed.
Wear Protective Gear – Always wear a high-visibility vest, and choose lightweight equipment that allows you to move quickly when necessary.

2. Identify the Best Spots on the Track

Each section of the track tells a different story. Areas where cars accelerate, hard braking zones, and the start/finish line all offer unique opportunities. Key locations to consider:

Corners – These are where cars become unstable, leading to exciting maneuvers and overtakes.
Chicanes – Ideal for capturing rapid directional changes. These sections are also prone to dramatic moments, especially in wet conditions.
Pit Lane – The hub of intense team activity, pit stops reveal the behind-the-scenes reality of motorsports. Teamwork, precision, and sometimes chaos unfold here.

3. Prepare and Optimize Your Equipment

Having the right gear is crucial for capturing great shots:

Use Fast Lenses – A 70-200mm or 100-400mm lens is ideal for capturing moving vehicles. Fast autofocus and a wide aperture help in low-light conditions.
Use a High Shutter Speed – To freeze action, set your shutter speed to at least 1/1000s. However, using a slower shutter speed, such as 1/125s or below, combined with panning or follow-zoom techniques, can create dynamic images.
Use Dual Memory Cards – If your camera supports dual card slots, shoot simultaneously on both to prevent data loss. If using a single card, back up your photos frequently.

4. Monitor Lighting and Weather Conditions

Lighting and weather can change rapidly on the track:

Morning and Evening Hours – These times provide softer, more dramatic lighting.
Bright Sunny Days – Use an ND filter to reduce light intensity, allowing for a wider aperture and beautiful bokeh effects.
Rainy or Cloudy Conditions – Use a polarizing filter to reduce reflections. Wet tracks and water splashes can create unique and dramatic shots.

5. Capture Speed and Motion

It’s not just about freezing the action – conveying the sense of speed is equally important:

Panning Technique – By tracking the car’s movement, you can create a sharp subject with a blurred background to enhance the sense of motion.
Focus on Details – Damaged tires, glowing brake discs, exhaust smoke, engine close-ups, or helmet designs can tell compelling stories.

6. Don’t Forget to Tell a Story

Motorsports are about more than just speed and racing. Your photos should capture the atmosphere and emotions of the event:

The Excitement of the Crowd – Showcase the energy and reactions of the fans.
Teamwork in the Pits – Highlight the intensity of pit stops and behind-the-scenes action.
Drivers’ Emotions – Capture the moment of victory, exhaustion, or frustration after a tough race.

7. Be Patient and Wait for the Right Moment

In a sport where everything moves fast, patience is key. Sometimes, you may need to wait a long time for the perfect shot, but when the moment arrives, it will be worth it.

8. The Biggest Factor – Luck!

No matter how well you prepare, sometimes you just need to be in the right place at the right time. The most iconic shots often come from unexpected moments.Motorsport photography is an art that requires not only technical knowledge but also patience and passion. By following safety protocols, using the right equipment, and focusing on storytelling, you can capture breathtaking images that bring the thrill of racing to life. Mastering this challenging yet rewarding field is an unforgettable experience for any photographer.