Failing at Formula E: Capturing the Speed
As a photographer who thrives on the thrill of high-speed action, I've faced my fair share of challenges. Recently, I had the opportunity to shoot the Formula E race at Portland International Raceway, and let me tell you, it was a completely different beast compared to capturing planes. Here's a glimpse into my experience, complete with a few photos from the event.
The Challenge of Being Close to the Action
One major difference between shooting planes and Formula E cars is how close you get to the action. When you're photographing planes, there's usually a considerable distance between you and the aircraft, making it easier to track their movement. But with Formula E cars, you're right up close, and they're zipping past at insane speeds. This makes it way harder to get that perfect shot.
Here's a shot of a Formula E car crossing the finish line. To get this shot, I had to really nail the timing and focus, which was a lot tougher than I expected. I was just a few meters away from the car, and it felt like it was gone in a blink.
Where It All Started
I first tried shooting from a hole in the fence. It gave a cool, framed perspective but man, it was challenging. The cars were moving so fast, and the fence was a big obstacle. It took a lot of trial and error to get anything decent from that spot.
This image shows the small hole in the fence where I started. I thought it would be a neat angle, but it was really tough to get the timing right. I ended up with over 300 pictures of just empty track because I kept missing the cars!
The Finish Line Struggle
After a while, I moved to the finish line to try my luck there. It was definitely a better spot to catch the cars in full view as they zoomed by. But even then, it was a real challenge to get them in focus and in frame at the right moment.
Here's another shot from the finish line. Even here, it was still a struggle. The cars were so fast that I missed the shot more times than I care to admit. The noise of the crowd added to the intensity, making it even harder to concentrate. But when I finally got it right, it felt amazing.
Conclusion
Photographing Formula E cars was a whole new level of challenging. Being so close to the high-speed action, trying to capture the perfect moment, and dealing with the unique perspectives of the track made it an intense but rewarding experience. These images might look cool, but trust me, behind each one, there are probably hundreds of failed attempts. It just shows how fast and thrilling these races are, and how tough it can be to freeze that speed in a photo.
Whether it's planes slicing through the sky or electric cars zipping past on the track, the adrenaline rush of capturing high-speed action is unmatched. Both experiences have taught me valuable lessons in patience, timing, and the joy of nailing that perfect shot. Can't wait to see what new challenges and adventures come next!
Soaring High: My Adventure at the Hillsboro Air Show
Attending the Hillsboro Air Show was a wild ride, packed with unexpected mishaps, new friendships, and stunning photos. From forgetting my memory card to capturing the electrifying F-16 in action, here's how I turned a series of surprises into an unforgettable photography adventure. And here’s a tip: you don’t always need a ticket to get those perfect shots.
Day One: The Great Memory Card Fiasco
The first day kicked off with sky-high excitement as I prepped my camera bag and set off, eager to capture the spectacle. But as soon as I arrived and pulled out my camera, I realized with a jolt – no memory card. That’s right, I had a camera with no way to store photos. Rookie mistake!
Determined not to miss out completely, I embarked on a frantic quest for a memory card. I dashed to three different stores around town, each stop more desperate than the last. Finally, success! With a memory card in hand, I raced back to the show, hoping to salvage the day.
Despite the delay, I managed to capture a few shots before the event wrapped up. The overcast skies provided a dramatic backdrop for the aerobatic displays, and the day's hustle made those few photos feel like hard-won trophies. Just as the show was winding down, the skies opened up with a heavy rain, adding a dramatic flair to the end of my adventure.
Day Two: Meeting Dean and the F-16 Spectacle
Armed with extra memory cards, I returned on day two with clear skies and high hopes. While setting up my gear, I met Dean, a seasoned pro who generously shared his expertise on the best angles and moments to capture.
Thanks to Dean’s guidance, I felt like I had a co-pilot. The highlight of the day was photographing the F-16 Fighting Falcon. This sleek jet, with its roaring engine and incredible speed, was the star of the show. Capturing it in flight was exhilarating. The F-16 sliced through the sky with precision, leaving trails of white vapor against the gray clouds. The dramatic skies provided a perfect contrast to the powerful jet, making for some striking photos.
Dean's tips on positioning and timing paid off, resulting in some of the best shots I’ve ever taken. The F-16's dynamic maneuvers were breathtaking, and capturing its agility against the moody sky was a thrilling experience.
Outside the Box (or Airport): Getting Great Shots Without a Ticket
One of the best parts about my experience was realizing that you don't necessarily need to buy a ticket to see and photograph the air show. Many of my shots, including those of the magnificent F-16, were taken from outside the airport grounds. The planes often perform maneuvers that are visible from surrounding areas, giving you the opportunity to capture incredible images without even entering the venue. So, if you're on a budget or just looking for a different perspective, don't hesitate to set up outside the official boundaries.
Reflections and Takeaways
The Hillsboro Air Show turned out to be an unforgettable experience, filled with unexpected lessons and delightful surprises. Forgetting my memory card on the first day was a comedic misstep, but it made the successful shots of the second day all the more rewarding. Meeting Dean was a lucky break, and his mentorship was invaluable.
For anyone planning to photograph an air show, here are a few light-hearted tips from my adventure:
Double-Check Your Gear: Seriously, double-check. And then check again. Spare memory cards are your best friends.
Make Friends: Connect with fellow photographers. You never know when a Dean will come along with tips that change everything.
Weather the Weather: Be ready for rain or shine. Sometimes the most dramatic photos come from unexpected weather.
Know Your Subjects: A little knowledge about the planes can go a long way in anticipating great shots.
Enjoy the Ride: Embrace the mishaps and enjoy the experience. Every moment is part of the adventure.
Think Outside the Airport: Great shots can be taken from outside the official grounds. Look for vantage points around the perimeter for unique perspectives.
The Hillsboro Air Show was more than just an event; it was a journey of learning, laughing, and capturing the breathtaking beauty of aviation. From the F-16's thrilling maneuvers to the unexpected rain showers, every moment added to the story. I can't wait for next year’s show, ready for new challenges and new stories to tell through my lens.
