How to shoot motion drag racing [Archive]

View Full Version : How to shoot motion drag racing

powertvmark

02-10-2009, 05:10 PM

THIS ISN'T SAYING THAT ANY SHOOTING STYLE SUCKS, SIMPLY A GUIDE TO SHOOTING SLOWER

I personally am a big fan of motion. I have found that in drag racing, most shots are all shot in high shutter speeds, this isn't meaning anything is bad, but you get no sense of motion. I RARELY shoot racing in high shutter speeds and try to push people to try slower shutter shots. It really isn't that hard to shoot with motion and here is a guide I made awhile ago that I adjusted for drag racing.

When I shoot action, i just run the camera in shutter priority (TV on canons) and let the camera figure out the lighting in MOST situations, and sometimes ill fine tune it with AE shifting. When panning a subject, the lighting changes a lot faster. Some situations I run full manual, generally in odd lighting conditions. Make sure you run AI servo and not single shot when shooting action, this allows the camera to continually focus.

The key really is a good lens with a good image stabilization system, this allows you to run a much lower shutter speed. Dont be fooled by some Canon lenses such as the 70-300. It has a single stage stabilizer that only stabilizes vertical movement. Make sure you get a 2 stage (only found in L glass) stabilizer that controls vertical and horizontal movement. There really isnt a formula to shooting action. Ive heard people say a 1MPH: 1MS shutter speed is good, but i dont quite agree with that, I would START with 1.5-2x and then go down from there.

the main points of shooting action are:
1) angle at which the object is traveling, I.E. coming at you, front 1/4 shot, side, rear 1/4, etc.
2) speed of whatever your shooting
3) your distance from where you are shooting
4) focal length (which can tie into 3)
5) lighting sometimes, if you have a good F lens, u dont have to worry about this so much

Side Bar on Burn Outs

I can look at a burn out picture and generally tell around where the shutter speed is just on how the smoke looks and don't really care for clumpy looking smoke. Don't be scared of running slow shutter shots on burn outs, it is easy and will make the smoke look more life like.

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj114/powertvmedia/02_NMCA%2008/NMCA%20Super%20Bowl%2008/Q1/IMG_9714.jpg

covering 1
Dont bother at trying to run a slow shutter on something coming straight at you. Whatever you might be shooting needs to be coming across you at some point to start getting a sense of motion. If im at a race in a photo hole shooting straight shots, I generally jack up the shutter pretty good, (1/250th) esp. if you cannot see much of the wheel rotation, This is really for only long range, head on shots (300mm+)

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/WP/1.jpg

At that point you start getting the 1/4 shot, then shutter speed starts to become a factor.

http://www.floridaracing.org/drag/nostalgia06/images/1%20017.jpg

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/WP/SB10sm.jpg

http://www.floridaracing.org/drag/worldstreet06/ptv.jpg

http://www.floridaracing.org/drag/worldstreet06/images/1%20142.jpg

Covers steps 2-4
When Im shooting with my telephoto at focal lock (or close to) at a good distance, your body movement isnt as fast, this allows you to run a slower shutter. keep in mind i have a 2.8L IS which is about the best lens for stabilization, allowing me to run really slow shutters. For non IS lenses, I would start at 1.3-1.5x the speed of whatever your shooting and then move down from there, not going below 50-60th.

Formula D Irwindale: car traveling about 40-50 mph, at focal lock, probably 30 yards away, shutter speed 1/50th. Yea I know it is drifting here, but it also applies to drag racing depending on lens length and lane.

http://www.floridaracing.org/drifting/d1gpirwindale07/images/1%20(19).jpg

The key is finding that sweet spot. Sometimes you can shoot REALLY slow, but can end up with a little more blur, in which basically your focus point is in focus, but the surrounding areas start to blur. Plus some drivers are faster then others. The below shot was probably either too close or too fast for the shutter speed selected.

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/NMRAMilan08/2sm.jpg

DISTANCE

Generally, shorter the distance, shorter the focal, the less speed you can run. If your whipping your camera around fast, its going to be harder for you to hold that camera as still, allowing less shutter.

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/WP/SB13sm.jpg

Launch shot with my 17-40 F4L, shutter was around 125th. As you can see, this is the same speed I was shooting cars traveling 50-60mph, but since it is MUCH closer, this really cuts your ability to run a slow shutter. Below, 1/80th at about 150MM

http://www.floridaracing.org/drag/nostalgia06/images/1%20230.jpg

1/100th, 140 MPH on the brakes hard at about 180 MM

http://www.floridaracing.org/contest/1.jpg

rtj

02-10-2009, 05:20 PM

Good write-up and pictures.

DragRacingTV.com

02-10-2009, 05:36 PM

great post!! i've been wanting to work on that technique of panning the camera with the car downtrack, like you did with the flopper... that's a great shot.

doing it while standing by the tree is problematic, because it's difficult to get the entire length of the car in focus, and you lose tire wrinkle.

thanks for the tips!

Lonnie Gautreau

02-10-2009, 05:54 PM

Motion Blur in Photoshop works well too lol.

powertvmark

02-10-2009, 05:58 PM

Motion Blur in Photoshop works well too lol.

I like to do it right out of the camera if I can so I don't have to worry about it in photoshop, haha.

Lonnie Gautreau

02-10-2009, 06:02 PM

I like to do it right out of the camera if I can so I don't have to worry about it in photoshop, haha.

Same here, but you get those unexpected shots sometimes lol

but I especially love panning bikes ill post some up later tonite

kewl427

02-10-2009, 08:57 PM

Thanks for all the good tips on taking a good pic. I'll try to use it lilke a pro.. yea right....cant wait till race season starts..... come on warmer weather. Bill

camaroguy327

02-10-2009, 09:07 PM

I tried out shooting with a slower speed back at the outlaw radial tire shootout during one of the 10.5 qualifing sessions. I seemed to burn through quite a few shots before I got the cars in frame and not completely blurred. This shot is what I deem to be the best of the bunch.

exposure: 1/80, focal length: 26mm (lens is a 18-70mm macro), apeture: f/10.0, iso: 100

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3411/3270186869_bcec851612_b.jpg

Dan - 99 TA

02-10-2009, 09:19 PM

I like it. Nice effect.

rtj

02-10-2009, 09:22 PM

Years ago I shot lots of TMAX film and processed it for the work I did. Now photography is only a hobby, and I am not too technical. But, at certain times in the evening, I get the motion effect. Here are a couple.

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff319/rtjohns/camero.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff319/rtjohns/chevy2-1.jpg

powertvmark

02-10-2009, 11:48 PM

I tried out shooting with a slower speed back at the outlaw radial tire shootout during one of the 10.5 qualifing sessions. I seemed to burn through quite a few shots before I got the cars in frame and not completely blurred. This shot is what I deem to be the best of the bunch.

exposure: 1/80, focal length: 26mm (lens is a 18-70mm macro), apeture: f/10.0, iso: 100

The low sucess rate is due to TOO slow of a shutter speed for the distance as were. Try 100-125th next time and your sucess rate will go up.

Good ol Bradenton, I miss the home track!

powertvmark

02-10-2009, 11:49 PM

Years ago I shot lots of TMAX film and processed it for the work I did. Now photography is only a hobby, and I am not too technical. But, at certain times in the evening, I get the motion effect. Here are a couple

Great Shots! Larger your gap between your subject your panning, the greater reward.

Lonnie Gautreau

02-11-2009, 03:37 AM

Some of my Panning shots

Canon 40D & 20D with Sigma 70-200

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v442/99TurboDiesel/IMG_0002.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v442/99TurboDiesel/IMG_0172.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v442/99TurboDiesel/IMG_0184.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v442/99TurboDiesel/IMG_0187.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v442/99TurboDiesel/IMG_4853.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v442/99TurboDiesel/IMG_4967.jpg

Nikon D2X w/ 70-200 F2.8VR
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v442/99TurboDiesel/ROB_4677.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v442/99TurboDiesel/ROB_4744.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v442/99TurboDiesel/ROB_4753.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v442/99TurboDiesel/ROB_4776.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v442/99TurboDiesel/ROB_4799.jpg

Panning in Photoshop lol
http://www.turbo-photos.net/online/BillDevine2.jpg

kid vishus

02-11-2009, 08:05 AM

Those are some great pictures, but man, the tech talk was way over my "point and shoot" ass. LOL

Dirty_SOHC

02-11-2009, 08:14 AM

bad ass write up. Some of what you saying wouldn't have made sense to me a week ago, but since I've been trying to pay attention in class and the help from people on here I think I've finally got it.

Marv D

02-11-2009, 09:34 AM

Thanks so much for sharing techique and expertise guys. It's a true professional that isn't threatened by helping those trying to learn.

THANKS

Now,, you don't have to stop there ;) i'll bet not a one of us stops at shooting 'only' racing and action shots.

rtj

02-11-2009, 11:56 AM

a couple more to keep the thread rolling...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff319/rtjohns/bike.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff319/rtjohns/sv_0192.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff319/rtjohns/DSC_0197.jpg

powertvmark

02-11-2009, 05:07 PM

rtj

02-11-2009, 07:33 PM

Looks like you may have been a BIT on the aggressive side on the shutters there.

Also keep in mind that F stop will slightly effect your shutter speed abilities. Meaning the darker it gets, the more conservative on the shutter you need to be. A deep depth of field and a slow shutter work against themselves a little.

Thanks, I'm just a point and shoot guy now. Not a pro (I guess that is obvious). But, the original poster has inspired me to delve into this some more.

Tim Adams

02-11-2009, 07:43 PM

When it works, slow, slow is cool as hell to me,

http://www.timadamsphotography.com/0209%20Firebird%20slow%20speed%20pan.jpg

http://www.timadamsphotography.com/3952%20Audi%20R10%20slow%20pan.jpg

http://www.timadamsphotography.com/9713%20Dyson%20slow%20pan.jpg

http://www.timadamsphotography.com/0619%20R10%20slowpan.jpg

http://www.timadamsphotography.com/6913%20rain%20shot.jpg

powertvmark

02-12-2009, 12:46 PM

Good shots, last two are the best IMO. I personally try to get 80%+ of the car in focus for the "perfect" slow shutter shots. If I get 20-50% only in focus, then I usually go 1 click faster.

Also, shooting open wheel cars are tougher then full body!

camaroguy327

02-12-2009, 09:33 PM

Not as great as some of you pros but here are some more of mine. There are taken at the top end during the 09 tomato nats.

apt.f/8
exp 1/200
iso 100
sony A300k dslr
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3102/3211622860_82b3ac5fd1_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3304/3210789547_52c0e08666_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3517/3211647910_2b625cc071_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3409/3211610264_2540b7865d_b.jpg

powertvmark

02-13-2009, 11:54 AM

Shots are great! 1/200th is probably about right for panning at the stripe.

rtj

02-13-2009, 12:01 PM

Good thread. This would be a great technique right after they pull the chute.

powertvmark

02-13-2009, 08:07 PM

sticked, yay!

OUTLAW PHOTO

02-13-2009, 09:04 PM

There are numerous ways to find motion, some of my favorite settings are at 100iso. Back in the film days (does anyone remember that?) I used to shoot Top Fuel at a 60th of a sec. Would get some killer flames! Here are just a couple of pics from my days at Detroit Dragway. I'll load some Fuel stuff later.

http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk315/outlawphoto/Detroit%20Dragway%2014/2-18-2007-38.jpg?t=1234576364 (javascript:void(0);)
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk315/outlawphoto/Detroit%20Dragway%2014/2-18-2007-29.jpg?t=1234576801 (javascript:void(0);)
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk315/outlawphoto/Detroit%20Dragway%2014/2-18-2007-02.jpg?t=1234576860 (javascript:void(0);)

dryhop

02-13-2009, 09:47 PM

OUTLAW PHOTO

02-13-2009, 11:26 PM

A couple of pics from the film days. These were shot at a 60th of a sec. using 400sp film.
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk315/outlawphoto/X-TRA%20Stuff/1-8-2007-24copy.jpg?t=1234585505 (javascript:void(0);)

http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk315/outlawphoto/X-TRA%20Stuff/1-8-2007-37copy.jpg?t=1234585544 (javascript:void(0);)

OUTLAW PHOTO

02-14-2009, 12:02 AM

Some cool pics and good tips,i could use some tips on night shots.Using the built in flash,stills are great,motion/action shots not so great,blurry.Figured not enough lite,so i bought a external or add on flash thinking it may help?Havent used it yet.So any tips would be great,as far as settings to start with,directing the flash and so on.My camera is a digital Olympus E-500 and the new flash is an Olympus FL-36R all help is appreciated thanks. I have known people and still do, that struggle with digital flash at night. It can be a differant animal to get satisfactory results. IMO, you really need to look at the manual for your equipment and tweek it. ..... Some examples and ideas to work with.

1- You need to find out you shutter/flash sync speed.
2- IMO, an external flash is the only way to go. Check with your manufacture to see what they suggest for wich flash unit best suits your needs.
3- The higher your iso, the more power/distance you will get out of your flash.Use caution here though, some bodys will let you shoot at 1600iso and be virtually noise free, while some ,it's better to stay at 400iso.
4- I recomend using all manual settings for flash photography.It give you more control of what your shooting and when.
5- As a last resort, consider full prograhm mode with TTL setting on the flash but, I don't recomend this,you may not like the results due to glare, flash kickback and anbiet light.
6- When your ready to go,try your stuff out in a parking lot with cars. ie; differant colors, settings and distance. Check your extiff and see what works. It's conna take some time but be patient and remember, IT'S ONLY DIGITAL, if you don't like it, delete.

Note ; the opions reflected here are soely that of the author,they do not reflect on our sponsors,advtisers or owners of this station. Any reply or rebuttle to these statments may be made no later that the date posted or a hand written document may be mailed to your nearest post box. Tax, license,dealer prep does not apply. Consult you state litterary for further referance. :p..................OMG ! I need to get a life ! ................................:smt082:smt082

dryhop

02-14-2009, 12:54 PM

Thank you for the suggestions,i will do some experimenting! BTW i will have my lawyer call your lawyer and we can get all the proper paper work in order and remove any legalities from yourself concerning the above mentioned statments,opinoins,and any portrayal of having knowledge of the ARTS OF PHOTOGRAPHY.:-D

OUTLAW PHOTO

02-14-2009, 04:29 PM

Mitch Perkins

02-21-2009, 07:08 PM

Excellent writeup and advise. I'm a big fan of motion in My shots as well. I picked up allot of advise the last 2 years from some great photogs ( Dudes like John ForeIII and Roger Richards. I really like getting motion in night shots. I'll have to dig around in the HD and find some to post.

kewl427

03-03-2009, 08:22 PM

http://clickclickboom.smugmug.com/photos/203485207_kt3TG-L.jpg (http://clickclickboom.smugmug.com/gallery/3582112_YR72K#203485207_kt3TG-A-LB)
http://clickclickboom.smugmug.com/photos/203486301_R7NjC-L.jpg (http://clickclickboom.smugmug.com/gallery/3582112_YR72K#203486301_R7NjC-A-LB)
Here are a couple a pics from Maple Grove a few years back..:rolleyes:

JMAST

03-03-2009, 08:55 PM

The shot of the Mustang is awesome ! I can almost hear it
screaming. A great capture.

kewl427

03-04-2009, 12:17 PM

The shot of the Mustang is awesome ! I can almost hear it
screaming. A great capture.
Thanks Jmast ,,, i think what makes it look pretty good is the front wheel just sitting still .. Thanks Bill

powertvmark

03-05-2009, 01:37 AM

The shot of the Mustang is awesome ! I can almost hear it
screaming. A great capture.

I can almost hear Millen on the 2 step!

pop pop pop

Lonnie Gautreau

03-10-2009, 02:11 AM

another pan shot that I didnt do in photoshop lol

http://www.turbo-photos.net/online/joker1.jpg

tim lewis

03-11-2009, 11:53 PM

http://images40.fotki.com/v1337/photos/1/1155985/7148672/tomattonats118-vi.jpg
http://images45.fotki.com/v1394/photos/1/1155985/6938128/101_2329-vi.jpg
http://images35.fotki.com/v1210/photos/1/1155985/6348069/101_3052-vi.jpg
http://images25.fotki.com/v901/photos/1/1155985/5079864/100_0620-vi.jpg
http://images26.fotki.com/v895/photos/1/1155985/5079864/100_0686-vi.jpg
http://images25.fotki.com/v943/photos/1/1155985/5166933/100_1490-vi.jpg
http://images26.fotki.com/v889/photos/1/1155985/5108728/100_0955-vi.jpg

AROutlawphotog

03-13-2009, 05:45 PM

I like making juniors look faster than they are. They the pics too.

http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk241/bbailey60/3-7-09013_edited.jpg
http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk241/bbailey60/3-7-09012_edited.jpg
http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk241/bbailey60/3-7-09282_edited.jpg
Hope ya'll like them.

JOHN FORE III

03-29-2009, 10:01 PM

Since I got rained out this weekend on 2 races, I got a chance to look for one of my favorite pan shots.
http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/7983/88749819.jpg

rtj

03-30-2009, 06:49 AM

Since I got rained out this weekend on 2 races, I got a chance to look for one of my favorite pan shots.
http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/7983/88749819.jpg

This may be an example of "relative motion" photography!

Nice photo.

Falcon67

04-21-2009, 12:27 PM

The sun refused to co-operate last race, so I kept the shutter speed up. I have been using slow speeds to try and get motion into the Jrs and some bikes. The track runs west to east, so in the afternoon we have to do a lot of side shooting to keep from washing out the colors. I do find that even with the smaller lens (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) I get better results from the far lane - which I can't see unless I'm way past the 60' block. She's shooting with a EF-S 55-250mm f/4.0-5.6 IS Telephoto Zoom.

http://raceabilene.com/ADSPics/041109Sat/images/041109%20553.jpg
http://raceabilene.com/ADSPics/041109Sat/images/041109%20557.jpg
http://raceabilene.com/ADSPics/041109Sat/images/041109%20567.jpg

She got some wheel speed on some of her shots - that XTi of hers does a lot better than my hand-me-down LOL.
http://raceabilene.com/ADSPics/041109Sat/images/041109%20394.jpg
http://raceabilene.com/ADSPics/041109Sat/images/041109%20321.jpg
Friday better
http://raceabilene.com/ADSPics/041009Fri/images/041009%20080.jpg

This is what evening looks like
http://raceabilene.com/ADSPics/041009Fri/images/041009%20026.jpg

little duece coupe

05-12-2009, 10:12 PM

how is this ,i think its kinda cool.not as trick as some of these other ones,DAMN some of those are incredible

http://i361.photobucket.com/albums/oo58/phildees49/ortc%20sgmp%202009/20090509_1091.jpg

sbc_racer

05-31-2009, 10:49 AM

Hi guys good thread im an Aussie an im building a car to run simular to your stock suspension classes it a procharged car. I always collect pics from the internet an take them when eva im at the track i don t know how to use my camers an its proberly an ok camera its a Cannon EOS 350D DIGITAL an the lenses EFS18-55mm it s also got 0.28m/0.9ft and the other cannon zoom lens EF 75-300mm 1:4-6.6 III also it got 1.5m/4.9ft sorry if i put to much up just put all the info so ya might no what i got here .
This is on eof my pics

http://i295.photobucket.com/albums/mm146/modst1/modstreet248-Copy-1.jpg

sbc_racer

05-31-2009, 11:00 AM

At night
http://i295.photobucket.com/albums/mm146/modst1/shootout148.jpg

sbc_racer

05-31-2009, 11:12 AM

http://i295.photobucket.com/albums/mm146/modst1/modstreet218.jpg

sbc_racer

05-31-2009, 11:12 AM

http://i295.photobucket.com/albums/mm146/modst1/modstreet220.jpg

sbc_racer

05-31-2009, 11:12 AM

http://i295.photobucket.com/albums/mm146/modst1/modstreet198.jpg

sbc_racer

05-31-2009, 11:13 AM

http://i295.photobucket.com/albums/mm146/modst1/modstreet264.jpg

sbc_racer

05-31-2009, 11:13 AM

http://i295.photobucket.com/albums/mm146/modst1/modstreet239.jpg

sbc_racer

05-31-2009, 11:13 AM

http://i295.photobucket.com/albums/mm146/modst1/modstreet179.jpg

sbc_racer

05-31-2009, 11:13 AM

http://i295.photobucket.com/albums/mm146/modst1/modstreet237.jpg

sbc_racer

05-31-2009, 11:13 AM

http://i295.photobucket.com/albums/mm146/modst1/modstreet186.jpg

sbc_racer

05-31-2009, 11:14 AM

http://i295.photobucket.com/albums/mm146/modst1/modstreet166.jpg

sbc_racer

05-31-2009, 11:14 AM

http://i295.photobucket.com/albums/mm146/modst1/modstreet158.jpg

sbc_racer

05-31-2009, 11:18 AM

For starters i know my biggest problem is trying to get the car in the center of the shot or is that normal an you just edit {crop } later ? Any tip[ s in what im doing wrong?

sbc_racer

05-31-2009, 11:36 AM

http://i295.photobucket.com/albums/mm146/modst1/modstreet222.jpg

sbc_racer

05-31-2009, 11:36 AM

http://i295.photobucket.com/albums/mm146/modst1/modstreet142.jpg

powertvmark

06-03-2009, 09:14 PM

I've been slackin on getting some recent stuff up. I will be shooting ADRL this weekend in Martin so I will try to have some fun there. I didn't shoot any pictures really while I was in Union Grove for the TSDRA a couple weeks ago, though here is the only one I shot.

http://www.floridaracing.org/TSDR1.jpg

Mark Keiser

06-03-2009, 10:30 PM

I've been slackin

What's new?

little duece coupe

06-16-2009, 06:37 PM

heres one i took the other night let me know what you think..rookie

http://i361.photobucket.com/albums/oo58/phildees49/ocala%20speedway/IMG_0037.jpg

little duece coupe

06-16-2009, 06:43 PM

damn it screwed up again.

http://i361.photobucket.com/albums/oo58/phildees49/ocala%20speedway/IMG_0037-1.jpg

powertvmark

06-17-2009, 09:07 PM

Some fun from ADRL Martin, MI. No photoshop/correction/cropping of any kind

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/Martin1.jpg

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/Martin2.jpg

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/Martin3.jpg

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/Martin4.jpg

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/Martin5.jpg

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/Martin6.jpg

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/Martin7.jpg

powertvmark

06-17-2009, 09:17 PM

heres one i took the other night let me know what you think..rookie

On a 70-300 without IS, 1/60th of a second is going to be a little too aggressive. Try 1/125-1/160

Donut

06-17-2009, 09:33 PM

I totally see myself in the stands in a couple of those, Mark.

powertvmark

06-17-2009, 10:34 PM

I can't believe you guys were there and didn't call.

You end up in all my NMRA shots anyway, so it wouldn't surprise me! LOL

Donut

06-18-2009, 12:10 AM

I can't believe you guys were there and didn't call.

You end up in all my NMRA shots anyway, so it wouldn't surprise me! LOL

I never even saw you there - it wasn't until the next day I heard you were there. We were only there for a few hours anyway.

707photoguy

07-10-2009, 11:56 PM

Here's one of my latest [IMG]http:///www.flickr.com/photos/fasttimesphotography/3705599444/[IMG]

powertvmark

07-13-2009, 05:14 PM

Here you go. Looks good!

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3501/3705599444_27debc83a5_b.jpg

camaroguy327

07-14-2009, 09:55 PM

My favorite shot of the year so far. I think I'm getting a little better at this panning thing.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2474/3652218508_526f7f7fb2.jpg

colleen

07-23-2009, 06:57 AM

very cool and helpful write up

bigblockdan

07-29-2009, 07:03 PM

Here's my try at this I was using a canon G7 so there are some limits I think.

http://i781.photobucket.com/albums/yy97/daninline/IMG_0868.jpg

http://i781.photobucket.com/albums/yy97/daninline/IMG_0854.jpg

http://i781.photobucket.com/albums/yy97/daninline/IMG_0822.jpg

This last one I had to clean-up it was washed out real bad but I like how it came out.

http://i781.photobucket.com/albums/yy97/daninline/IMG_0829.jpg

Dan

powertvmark

07-29-2009, 07:26 PM

colleen

07-29-2009, 08:08 PM

since everyone is sharing here are some of my shots, if ya wanna help a armature out feel free to let me know how i can make my shots better
http://i342.photobucket.com/albums/o437/mrsbbnova/Memphis%20big%20hitters%20memphis/saturdaytenn2q168.jpg
http://i342.photobucket.com/albums/o437/mrsbbnova/Memphis%20big%20hitters%20memphis/saturdaytenn2q307.jpg
http://i342.photobucket.com/albums/o437/mrsbbnova/Memphis%20big%20hitters%20memphis/saturdaytenn2q384.jpg
http://i342.photobucket.com/albums/o437/mrsbbnova/atlanta%20pro%20classes/IMG_9399.jpg
http://i342.photobucket.com/albums/o437/mrsbbnova/atlanta%20pro%20classes/IMG_9432.jpg
http://i342.photobucket.com/albums/o437/mrsbbnova/atlanta%20pro%20classes/IMG_9495.jpg

colleen

07-29-2009, 08:09 PM

is this a unsteady hand they just dont seem crisp to me
and to much glare

bigblockdan

07-29-2009, 08:16 PM

I checked out the third one and it showed 1/60th a sec for shutter. Try for ATLEAST 1/100th on that camera, maybe even 1/125th minimum. I typically shoot stand shots at 1/80th-1/125th with my SLR.

That silver BMW looks like the red one that I use to see at Bradenton all the time, same one?

http://www.streetlegaltv.com/photos/data/622/IMG_5262.JPG

Thanks for the info I'll give it a try, the BMW is owned by Jorge Correia from what I understand is he built the car from scratch.
He started to show up to the track with it about 2 years ago I think it runs low 9's with a glide.

By the was yery cool shot so do you use a stand and set it to only turn side to side, I think my stand cost more then the camera LOL I also have now set the
ISO to 80 so I hope this is good setting

powertvmark

07-30-2009, 11:25 AM

powertvmark

07-30-2009, 11:31 AM

since everyone is sharing here are some of my shots, if ya wanna help a armature out feel free to let me know how i can make my shots better

The problem you have in most of those is that you aren't actually panning with the car. I can tell this because the background is in focus and the car is blurry. Meaning when the car launched, you didn't move with the car, causing that situation.

colleen

07-30-2009, 01:37 PM

The problem you have in most of those is that you aren't actually panning with the car. I can tell this because the background is in focus and the car is blurry. Meaning when the car launched, you didn't move with the car, causing that situation.
ok ill practise that thaks Mark!

bigblockdan

08-03-2009, 05:05 PM

ISO at 80 during the day is fine. I just sit in the stands and pan while hand holding. It is my way of doing my job but still being lazy at the same time, haha.

This is the BMW I'm talking about, a shot I took from Us Nats '06 though the car has been around longer

http://www.floridaracing.org/drag/usstreetnatsun/images/Picture%20014.jpg

I talked to the gu with the gray BMW and it's not the same car but he knew of a red BMW, is it a woman that drives the red one?

by the way if you ever need someone to cover for you sitting in the stands taking some photo's I'm your man LOL

I got some okay shots this weekend playing with the settings some

powertvmark

08-03-2009, 06:12 PM

Yea it is a lady that drives the red one

Scott 72

08-03-2009, 06:19 PM

How is this?

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm296/Nitro660/BunkerHill_2009308.jpg

powertvmark

08-04-2009, 04:27 PM

good! nice center weighted focus point

Codeman

08-21-2009, 12:07 PM

Hey guys this is my first post, but I have been lurking for a few days after stumbling in here on a Google search for shooting drag race pictures. Anyway this little tutorial has helped me already. I'm headed out to Joplin, Mo. for the HAMB drags tomorrow and I plan to shoot a ton of pics and I really wanted to hone my very amateur skills a little. I decided to go to the County Fair last night and take my son (he is 3) since he loves tractors and it would give me a chance to try out the info I found in this thread. I'm happy with the results so far even though I still need work. I think that fact that I was shooting from sunset into night kind of messed with me since I had to Photoshop several of the pics to get some more light in. Most of these were shot @ 1/40th or 1/50th and ISO 400 (close???) and everything else I let the camera (Canon Rebel XT with kit lens (18-55mm)) do. Tomorrow it appears I will be shooting in Bright sunlight so any help on settings would be greatly appreciated. Anyway here are a few pics from last night.

http://james.semoatvriders.com/2009%20Butler%20Count%20Fair%20Tractor%20Pull/images/IMG_4852.jpg

http://james.semoatvriders.com/2009%20Butler%20Count%20Fair%20Tractor%20Pull/images/IMG_4945.jpg

http://james.semoatvriders.com/2009%20Butler%20Count%20Fair%20Tractor%20Pull/images/IMG_4878.jpg

More pics here. http://james.semoatvriders.com/2009%20Butler%20Count%20Fair%20Tractor%20Pull/index_2.htm#19. Again thanks for the advice I already picked up here and for what I gain in the future.

powertvmark

10-26-2009, 07:50 PM

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/TN09/TN2.jpg

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/TN09/TN2_1.jpg

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/TN09/TN3.jpg

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/TN09/TN4.jpg

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/TN09/TN5.jpg

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/TN09/TN6.jpg

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/TN09/TN7.jpg

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/TN09/TN8.jpg

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/TN09/TN9.jpg

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/TN09/TN10.jpg

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/TN09/TN11.jpg

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/TN09/TN12.jpg

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/TN09/TN13.jpg

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/TN09/TN14.jpg

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/TN09/TN15.jpg

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/TN09/TN16.jpg

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/TN09/TN17.jpg

http://www.power-interactive.com/photos/TN09/TN18.jpg

powertvmark

10-26-2009, 07:50 PM

double post

bigblockdan

10-26-2009, 08:11 PM

those are some nice looking shots, can I follow you around the track so I can learn :)

powertvmark

10-26-2009, 09:19 PM

haha sure. Though I won't be shooting another drag racing even til probably March

e2zznic

11-23-2009, 11:36 PM

I've only been shooting cars a couple of years, and 99% of them are stills for magazines. I really admire your work, Mark, and I need to work on my actions. Here are the only ones I've done that I can show in public.http://http://www5.snapfish.com/thumbnailshare/AlbumID=619685027/

e2zznic

11-23-2009, 11:36 PM

Looks like I need to figure out how to post photos, too!

Donut

11-24-2009, 12:09 AM

I guess those are kinda nice, Mark.

:p

e2zznic

11-25-2009, 08:45 PM

e2zznic

11-25-2009, 08:48 PM

http://images5a.snapfish.com/232323232%7Ffp6323%3B%3Enu%3D44%3C3%3E%3A75%3E259% 3EWSNRCG%3D3255986%3B3234%3Anu0mrjhttp://images5b.snapfish.com/232323232%7Ffp63278%3Enu%3D44%3C3%3E%3A75%3E259%3E WSNRCG%3D3255%3B%3A67%3B634%3Anu0mrjhttp://images5b.snapfish.com/232323232%7Ffp63273%3Enu%3D44%3C3%3E%3A75%3E259%3E WSNRCG%3D3255%3B%3A67%3B534%3Anu0mrjA few more...
http://images5a.snapfish.com/232323232%7Ffp63252%3Enu%3D44%3C3%3E%3A75%3E259%3E WSNRCG%3D3255%3B%3A626834%3Anu0mrj

1Limited92

12-03-2009, 07:48 PM

Got lucky on this one with a the old cybeshot point and shoot to be so clear even though I cut the nose off a bit.

http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g40/ridin450/Picture076.jpg

JGP

12-14-2009, 11:36 AM

http://images5b.snapfish.com/232323232%7Ffp63283%3Enu%3D44%3C3%3E%3A75%3E259%3E WSNRCG%3D3255%3B%3A626934%3Anu0mrjOk, here they are. Constructive criticism is welcome!
http://images5b.snapfish.com/232323232%7Ffp63278%3Enu%3D44%3C3%3E%3A75%3E259%3E WSNRCG%3D3255%3B%3A626734%3Anu0mrj

All but the MUSTANG are soft, out of focus. I know you are going for the motion effect, but it does not look like that is what is happening here. It is possible that although your shutter speeds may be low. I am wondering how you have your focus set up. Perhaps you have it set for stationary rather than continuous auto focus. You may want to check those settings. Because, the car is moving, you are panning with it, continuous autofocus might be the best solution. Just my 2 cents.

Tim L

12-21-2009, 10:23 PM

I gave it a try this weekend. It was partly cloudy that day so I think I got lucky. Anyone use neutral density filters to help cut the amount of light down when it's really bright out?
http://www.tdlitwiller.com/Bradenton-Motorsports-Park/Day-in-Hell-Saturday/27D16389/745146168_xCgUe-XL.jpg

http://www.tdlitwiller.com/Bradenton-Motorsports-Park/Day-in-Hell-Saturday/27D16406/745164252_ZSG8g-XL.jpg

http://www.tdlitwiller.com/Bradenton-Motorsports-Park/Day-in-Hell-Saturday/27D16383/745145995_qmGsm-XL.jpg

Dom87SS

12-21-2009, 10:40 PM

first is nice and super sharp, the second is little out of focus, or the shutter was just a smige to slow, third looks good but maybe focal point was just a hair toward the back.

as for ND filters i havent used one. but seeing photos where they are used it tends to really make the colors pop and the windows less reflective so you can see through them. kinda cuts the glare down.

e2zznic

12-25-2009, 10:26 PM

Thanks for the input. I am still learning to do action stuff, and really need a better lens as well, although that's not going to fix improper setups.

powertvmark

01-04-2010, 11:17 AM

first shot looks great! I do use ND filters when shooting slow in bright conditions. I have one .3 and one .9 for various situations. They are pretty cheap (about $30-$35 each)

heavyc

01-14-2010, 10:03 PM

Here are some of mine from this past year.

http://www.sidejobphotos.com/Racing/OSTPA-09/OSTPA-07-19-09/MG2896-adj/598119437_3CNr9-L.jpg

http://www.sidejobphotos.com/Racing/Drag-Racing/Gasser-Reunion-09/MG6186/557492416_XCa6m-L-6.jpg

http://www.sidejobphotos.com/Racing/Drag-Racing/Gasser-Reunion-09/MG6424/557508343_5tKF7-L-6.jpg

http://www.sidejobphotos.com/Racing/Drag-Racing/Gasser-Reunion-09/MG6496/557514030_oipmC-L-6.jpg

http://www.sidejobphotos.com/Racing/Drag-Racing/ADRL-Ohio-Drags-3/MG7937-8-x-10/627928091_fjrkq-L-2.jpg

http://www.sidejobphotos.com/Racing/Drag-Racing/ADRL-Ohio-Drags-3/MG8025-8-x-10/627929807_foa3N-L-2.jpg

http://www.sidejobphotos.com/Racing/Drag-Racing/ADRL-Ohio-Drags-3/MG8234/629379292_o386d-L.jpg

http://www.sidejobphotos.com/Racing/Drag-Racing/ADRL-Ohio-Drags-3/MG8304-8-x-10/628143633_ykQPA-L.jpg

Thanks for looking.

Chuck

powertvmark

01-15-2010, 05:54 PM

looks good.

do you have a polarizer on for the 2-4th ones?

heavyc

01-15-2010, 06:49 PM

Thanks,

They were all shot without a polarizer. One of these days I'm gonna buy one to try.

Chuck

jimken61

02-09-2010, 10:39 PM

Here are a couple of my pan shots from last year.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2762/4344634491_ff40bf606d_o.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2795/4345341140_09ae556d61_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4023/4344599997_08ea42858e_b.jpg

jimken61

02-09-2010, 10:51 PM

One more...for now.
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4023/4344657755_ea1269a40e_o.jpg

Dom87SS

02-09-2010, 10:59 PM

so what im getting is that the solid ND filter will give you "fake" DOF allowing you to capture the subject more as a whole correct? and mark you said you use it in slow shooting in bright conditions. so im guessing along with the added DOF it provides it also doesnt allow the picture to be blown out by all the light entering the lens with the slower shutter speed and wide aperture.

Does this sound correct? if not please correct me...if so im for sure buyin a set of theses things.

Donut

02-09-2010, 11:13 PM

Dom87SS

02-09-2010, 11:23 PM

thats what i guess i was tryin to convey. your much better with simplistic explanations than i am :)

i think i may get a few here to try out while we still have lots of snow and the sun is out.

powertvmark

02-10-2010, 02:11 PM

i have a .3 and .9 ND for different lighting situations. In slow shutter situations the lower F stop will make the subject 'pop' out more, just as a low F-stop does. Coupling the low F stop with the low shutter REALLY makes it pop, though the slow shutter will be more harsh on the shot if you get it wrong, since your 'spread' is a lot less with the low Fstop. At the NMRA finals I was also stacking a polarizer on the ND filter, though a polarizer acts as a ND filter too, I only used the .3. This can be tricky on panning though it pays off. I will be using this a lot more this year.

Low F Stop + low shutter + polarizer clocked right = win. No glare and you can see right through the front window.

1/100th F3.5 180mm

http://www.floridaracing.org/test66.jpg

Dom87SS

02-10-2010, 03:00 PM

i have a circular polarizer now that i tried a few times and is tricky. it has like 4 different "positions" and really makes the shot noticeably different in each position.

i think i may pick up some ND filters for the 70-200 and give it a try

powertvmark

02-10-2010, 03:36 PM

polarizer just spins, its your job to have it set at the right setting. essentially, you should be able to see through the window (though shooting through a plexiglass front window will give a rainbow-ish look) and the concrete should be as its darkest point. Then you have it lined up right. You can fine tune slight angles by watching the reflections on the top of the hood/fenders.

powertvmark

02-10-2010, 05:06 PM

Here is 1 more example from the same batch. 1/100th F4

2nd one is similar focal as the 1st, but no ND at F11

http://www.floridaracing.org/test77.jpg

http://www.floridaracing.org/test88.jpg

PeeteProductions

02-13-2010, 08:16 AM

Just a few from an Event in Bowling Green, KY @ Beech Bend.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4023/4352905923_70e3d65145.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2743/4352904495_114363135f.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2727/4352904129_8aacf3e240.jpg

bigblockdan

02-13-2010, 08:27 AM

Dom87SS

02-18-2010, 10:18 AM

got a .3 ND filter yesterday, gonna throw it on the 70-200 in georgia and see how it does.

powertvmark

03-15-2010, 12:07 PM

how'd you like it

Dom87SS

03-15-2010, 08:19 PM

how'd you like it

To tell you the truth I can't tell the difference. I shoot with a UV all the time so i stacked it up and shot for a little bit. Then I stacked a circular polarizer on that and shot foe a bit. But took both off since I didn't know how the pics looked. The only real thing I did notice was I got a flare in almost every pic I took with the 3 filters stacked.

im gonna have to play with it some more (aka learn how to properly use it) and see what comes of it.

powertvmark

03-16-2010, 11:23 AM

The only benefit your going to get with that ND is if you are shooting low shutter speed pan shots for the lower aperture. The polarizer, if clocked right, will give you much richer colors. The best way to adjust a polarizer is to rotate it until the concrete is as dark as possible, then you can fine tune from there slightly depending on the glare on the car.