Exciting Car Photography

Capturing the essence of car shows through photography can be an exciting and gratifying experience, though navigating the throngs of people surrounding the vehicles can present challenges. Typically, cars are displayed in a manner that allows attendees to stroll around them and engage with the owners. This article will primarily focus on photographing stationary vehicles at car shows.

To achieve optimal results, you should concentrate on your camera's aperture settings. Aperture priority mode or manual mode is advised, depending on your familiarity with your camera. Aim for a small aperture, which corresponds to a higher number within the aperture settings, such as F11. Once you've set the aperture, modify the shutter speed to achieve the correct exposure.

Camera settings

Keep your ISO at 400 or lower to reduce noise, compelling your camera to regulate the shutter speed for proper exposure. If using manual mode, you'll need to adjust the shutter speed after selecting the smaller aperture and ISO setting. An example of a starting point for camera settings could be:

ISO 200 | Shutter Speed 1/80 | Aperture F11

These settings will likely change depending on the lighting conditions, such as direct sunlight, cloudy skies, or shade from a building. If you find yourself working with slower shutter speeds, you may want to use a tripod, but be mindful of its potential to obstruct foot traffic and cause accidents.

The rationale

·        ISO: Keep it low for richer colors and minimal noise.

·        Aperture: Use a small/high number to maximize depth of field, ensuring the entire vehicle is in focus.

·        Shutter speed: Adjust this variable within the exposure triangle to attain the desired exposure.

Consider modifying the ISO or aperture only if the shutter speed becomes too slow for capturing sharp images.

Focus Mode

If your camera offers focus modes, opt for single-point focus mode to prevent the camera from searching for a focus area and unintentionally focusing on something other than the car. Manual focus is another viable option, depending on your preference.

Filters?

If your lens accepts filters, bring a polarizer to minimize reflections on windows and glossy paint surfaces. This is particularly helpful when attempting to photograph the interior of a vehicle through the glass, as the polarizer can effectively eliminate glare.

Techniques

You've made it this far! Now, let's delve into some composition tips to elevate your car show photography.

1. Experiment with low and high angles: Both perspectives offer unique advantages. Capturing a low-angle shot emphasizes the undercarriage and creates a dramatic, larger-than-life effect. High-angle shots are ideal for showcasing an impressive interior or emphasizing the car's roofline.

2. Focus on distinctive features: Highlight elements such as hood ornaments, chrome accents, wheels, or model emblems. Engaging with the vehicle's owner often reveals unique aspects that deserve special attention in your photographs.

3. Diversify your lens choices: Utilizing various focal lengths allows for distinct visual effects. A moderate zoom lens provides versatility, while a wide-angle lens enables you to capture the entire vehicle, even in tight spaces. Experiment with different focal lengths to achieve a range of outcomes.

Summary

Above all, remember to enjoy the process of capturing these photos. While mastering the settings is essential, don't let it overwhelm you. If necessary, shooting in auto mode is perfectly acceptable. By applying a few of these suggested settings and techniques, you're sure to produce stunning and visually appealing images.