Quote:
Originally Posted by AsianDivaGirlsWebDude
Always love your pix!!! Very nice shots... 
What camera and lens set-up, and camera settings, do you use to freeze the cars but give the appearance of motion in the background? Is it just a depth of field thing?
ADG |
Thanks!
I'm using a Canon 20D with a Canon 70-200 2.8 and a 1.4 extender.
If you use a fast shutter speed ( 1/500 sec or faster ) it will freeze the car and it looks parked on the track. It's a much more dramatic to give it the feel of motion and speed by slowing down the shutter speed to at least 1/125 sec. This will blur the tires and wheels so you know the car is moving.
As the car drives past you pan the camera and take the picture when the car is directly perpendicular to your position. This is important because if it's coming towards you or driving away the car won't be sharp. You have to catch it at the moment it's right in front of you to get the best results.
It also helps to follow through with your pan even after taking the pic as this makes for a much smoother motion with better results.
I've tried going as slow as 1/30 sec which is what I used to get the pic of the #5 Porsche below which has a different look to it but the success rate goes waaaay down at that speed. I've found 1/125 works the best.
The last element in the picture is composition. If you can find something that looks pleasing when blurred it can really add to the look of the picture. In the NASCAR pictures I tried to incorporate the Daytona Lettering on the wall to help identify the location.
When you get one right it's a nice shot but you'll miss quite a few as well. Technique and practice will improve your odds.
