How to Photograph Horse Racing
Photography often tells a story. This is particularly true of action photos found in sports like horse racing. A photo may document the struggle to get ahead or the thrill of competition, the glory in winning or the agony of defeat. Equipment, planning and technique help you get a great horse-racing photograph.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Use the best camera that you can to capture action shots. Digital cameras make photographing action more difficult because of shutter lag time. You might push the button to take the picture, but the horse is out of the picture before the camera captures the photo. You need a digital camera that offers fast shutter times (at least 1/8000 a second) and continuous shooting. If you're using a point-and-shoot, look for a sports setting.
-
2
Plan your location. Just as with real estate, location is everything, and you must get as close as possible to the action to photograph horse racing. Getting ahead of the horses, particularly where the track curves, gives you a head on shot. Otherwise, you'll need to plan on a side view photograph. Work fast or you'll be taking a picture of the back end of the horse.
-
-
3
Consider lighting, which has ruined many a good racing photograph. The sun can cast your horse in shadows depending upon your location and that of the sun. You can't do much about the sun or the timing of the racing, but you can consider lighting when you decide on a location. Otherwise, taking photos in morning and late afternoon minimizes the problem of shadows. Cloudy days may not provide enough light for a good photo.
-
4
Capture your subject by adjusting the lens for a close shot with limited background distractions. Longer lenses help you fill the frame with your subject. Don't forget that you can also turn your camera vertically when you're shooting a head on shot. Because everything moves so fast in a horse race, pre-focus for the photograph. Don't forget that jockeys can make a good addition to a horse racing photograph.
-
5
Freeze the action through panning the camera. Aim your camera at the subject and follow it as it moves from left to right in front of you. Push the shutter button while panning to freeze the movement. Don't worry if you capture a little blurring, as this shows natural movement.
-
6
React quickly. Horse racing moves at lightning speeds, and you must you in order to photograph horse racing. Understand everything you can about timing and the sport itself, so you'll always be ready for that great shot.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Practice makes perfect if you want to photograph horse racing. The more you shoot races, the quicker you'll be at using the steps that make great horse racing photographs. If possible, arrange to attend morning workouts so you can get a sense of the track.
If you can position your camera in an ideal location, consider using a remote trigger that allows you to take great photos away from your viewfinder.
