How to Photograph Cars

Master the Art of Automotive Shooting

Viewers are drawn to the shiny exteriors, while sbstract artists revere the curves and textures in the details.

When shooting cars, careful planning and attention to detail is required. Location, perspective and of course lighting all need to be considered, as well as the cleanliness of the car, colour and continuity.

Successful car photography can be exceedingly challenging, but at least the model doesn't have to be cajoled into doing what you want. Cars also don't throw tantrums the way humans sometimes do!

Car Photography Tips

2. Take your time. You have to get to know the car and what is unique about it. Unlike models, cars don't get impatient or fidgety. Drive around in it if you can - it helps to get a sense of how you would like to portray it.

3. Let your own personality shine through. Don't imitate shots you see in magazines. Trust your own artistic eye and imagination.

4. Master the art of panning. To get a motion shot spot-on, ask an assistant to drive the car at about 15mph and shoot at between 1/15 sec and 1/30 sec. Practise until you get the shot you've envisioned.

5. Keep at it. It's easy to get disillusioned when you compare your results to what some of the top automotive photographers achieved. Remember that a lot of retouching goes into car photography, so don't expect your images to shine from the word go.

Related Posts

(From How to Photograph Cars back to Basic Photography Tips Home Page)

Read, reflect and be inspired. If you find something of value on my page on how to photograph cars, enjoy its gifts and please pass it on to your friends.