Mastering Motorsports Videography: 5 Easy Tips
Motorsports videography isn't just a job for me; it's a rollercoaster of excitement and challenges. I'm Joe Nicklo, a filmmaker based in South Florida, and I've had the privilege of capturing the intensity of events like Formula DRIFT, the 12 Hours of Sebring, and the Nashville Grand Prix. In this blog post, I'll share my top 5 tips for creating awe-inspiring motorsports shots, drawing from my experiences as a nominee for "best event film" at the International Motor Film Awards.
Dynamic Cinematics in Motorsports Videography: Striking the Perfect Shot Balance
n the world of motorsports videography, finding the right balance between static and moving shots is a crucial yet often overlooked aspect for beginners. While adding movement to shots enhances interest, it's equally vital to let the natural speed of racing cars shine through. Experiment with various camera movements, but don't shy away from embracing static shots. Achieving this balance keeps the viewer engaged without diminishing the impact of the high-speed action on the track.
As a seasoned motorsports videographer, I've learned to appreciate the power of allowing the inherent speed of racing cars to take center stage. Drawing inspiration from live broadcasts of renowned races, analyze the delicate equilibrium between locked-down shots, clean pans, and intentional camera movements. This observation becomes a valuable guide when planning your shot list.
2023 Formula DRIFT Rookie of the Year, Diego Higa competing against FD veteran Odi Bakchis in New Jersey
Remember, the goal is to keep the viewer captivated throughout the sequence without overshadowing the natural excitement of the racing cars. Judicious use of camera movements enhances rather than detracts from the already exhilarating motion on the track. So, as you delve into motorsports videography, let the speed of the cars shine, using your camera movements to complement and elevate their thrilling performance.
Prioritize Safety
Motorsports is in my opinion, the most unpredictable sport in the world and often times that unpredictability can lead to some dangerous things happening. Whether at a grassroots drifting event, the drag strip or a huge event like Indy Car…when filming motorsports, always put your safety and the safety of your crew first.
Most of the time, these events will have mandatory media briefings where officials will review safety policies which often include where you can shoot from, what route you need to take to get to shooting holes and what areas are strictly off-limits.
The 12 Hours of Sebring at the Sebring International Raceway
There’s a very good reason why the officials are taking the time to explain all of this to you and that is first and foremost for your safety and the safety of the drivers on track. Don’t be a dummy and ignore the rules just so you can get that “sick shot bro”.
It’s understandable that you want to get the best shots possible, which I’ll talk more about later in the video — but no shot is worth risking your well-being. Even in the event you don’t get injured, by not obeying the safety guidelines, you’re putting yourself at risk of having your credentials revoked by the officials.
If you think they’re joking, I can assure you…they’re not. To recap…when you’re out there shooting, Be aware of your surroundings, follow the guidelines in place and most importantly, don’t risk your well-being to get a shot. It’s not worth it.
2023 Formula DRIFT champion, Chelsea Denofa competing in New Jersey
Choose the Right Lenses
One question I’m often asked is “what is the best lens to film motorsports?”. Due to the run & gun nature of motorsports events, I prefer to film with a pair of zoom lenses. I always carry a mid-range zoom covering focal lengths in the 24-70mm range and a telephoto zoom covering at least 70-200mm.
Romain Grosejean of DHL Indy Car preparing for the 2023 Nashville Music City Grand Prix
Depending on the track I’m filming at, I may need to add a third zoom to cover longer distances. In that case, I’ll add either a 100-400mm or even a 150-600mm. The flexibility and speed of zoom lenses will help you optimize your shooting schedule, especially during shorter events.
While Zoom Lenses are your best friend when shooting motorsports, don’t be afraid to shoot on prime lenses. The benefits of having a good prime lens in your kit is that they’re often sharper than zoom lenses. A fixed-focal length prime lens will also force you to move around more to capture your subject.
I’ve found that when I shoot on prime lenses, I do tend to travel to a lot more spots around the circuit rather than camping at a few locations for longer periods.Ultimately, I highly recommend starting with a pair of zooms and building your kit from there.
Once you’ve learned how to master zooms, incorporating prime lenses and even specialty lenses like anamorphics, an ultrawides or even vintage lenses will help you to develop a personal style.
Navigating Motorsports Shooting Locations
Selecting the perfect shooting spots in motorsports videography can be a challenge, especially for newcomers to a circuit. Attend media meetings or seek guidance from officials to ensure compliance with safety regulations and optimize your shots.
Here's a trick I've learned: observe where other photographers position themselves but avoid copying angles. Instead, use their locations as a starting point, then carve out your unique perspective. Experimentation is key—try unconventional angles or shoot through barriers for a fresh, captivating look.
In motorsports videography, embracing unpredictability and thinking beyond standard viewpoints can lead to discovering hidden gems that showcase the intensity and dynamism of the races. Strike a balance between safety considerations and a creative, experimental spirit to redefine the boundaries of what motorsports videography can achieve.
James Deane at the Formula DRIFT Streets of Long Beach
Maximizing Networking in Motorsports Videography
In the world of motorsports videography, networking is a game-changer. Connect with fellow videographers to unlock insights and opportunities. Collaborate, share experiences, and learn from one another. As a motorsports videographer, I offer 1-on-1 coaching sessions for personalized guidance.
Embrace networking at events, forums, and workshops. It not only elevates your skills but also builds a support system of like-minded individuals. Networking is the key to success in motorsports videography—initiate conversations, attend events, and join communities. Together, let's capture the heart-pounding moments that define our craft.
The opening lap of the 2023 Nashville Music City Indy Car Grand Prix
Conclusion
Embarking on the journey of motorsports filmmaking demands a blend of technical know-how, safety awareness, and a dash of creative flair. My tips aim to guide you through this thrilling adventure, from striking the right balance in your shots to ensuring your safety and building a network within the filmmaking community. As you dive into the world of high-speed racing, remember to stay safe, embrace creativity, and keep learning from every moment and every peer you encounter. Until next time, take care and keep that camera rolling!
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