We all like to think of ourselves as budding David Baileys and with the advent of modern digital cameras, the sky’s the limit to what can be achieved when shooting your car or grabbing pics at a show. However, despite the technology, it’s still possible to take a rubbish photo – so here’s FIVE basic tips which will enable you to get better results the next time you remove your lens cap…
1. Perfect setting
When shooting your own car or a mate’s motor, take time finding a good location. Choose somewhere without other cars, houses or other distractions in the background. If you don’t mind heights, the top floor of a multi-storey carpark is perfect because it’s usually pretty empty and you can get some nice lighting. Alternatively, a disused industrial site is good and can provide just the right setting for ‘mean and moody’. Be sure to get the permission of the site owner first though before you start snapping…
2. Get the low down
Play around with angles. Get down low for a more jaunty look, and angle the camera to make the shot look more interesting. On modern cameras you don’t necessarily need to look through a viewfinder to take a picture so you can simply sit it on the ground and press the shutter to get the picture no one else has got. Also, why not climb a step ladder or stand on a balcony to shoot down on a car.
3. Focal point
Even the most simple cameras will have a focus lock, so use it to get more creative results. Basically, focus on something, keep your finger half pressed on the shutter, then compose the shot and press it down fully. That way, you’ll have something in the shot very sharp, with everything else blurry. It works brilliantly if you focus on a particular detail like a badge, part of a wheel or old period radio in the dashboard… The thing is to play around, get creative, man…
4. Keep composed
Take your time composing a picture properly. It looks pants if you don’t get all of the car in the frame and cut off the bumper or back end. Think about the position of the sun and don’t shoot straight into it. At a show, wait until people get out of the way to make the shot look more professional. If you’re shooting your own car, prepare it properly – that means giving it a good wash, making sure windows and doors and closed properly – and if you are taking a shot of the interior, give it a proper tidy up first remembering to remove CDs, maps, phones and all those empty sweetie wrappers…
5. Variety is best
Capture the atmosphere at shows by grabbing shots, not just of cars – but of some of the characters as well. Obviously this works best when you catch people unawares, but be mindful of the fact that some people might not want their photos taken. Play it by ear, in other words. Look for anything funny, or different – and shoot from the hip!
Try some of these out the next time you’re at a show or want to capture the moment with your own pride and joy and we’re sure you’ll be chuffed at the results…
Ian
The opinions expressed here are the personal opinions of the author and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of VW Heritage