F1 at Spa – Chasing the Dream
Ever since I first used a camera to photograph a moving car, I knew that this was what I wanted to do with my life. When you dedicate yourself to an art, despite what some might say, you always set personal goals. Some big, some small, but for as long as I can remember I’ve always dreamt of shooting a full grand prix weekend. I definitely wouldn’t consider myself a Formula One anorak or anything, but I’ve always found myself drawn to the visual impact of the pinnacle of motorsport. The speed, the glamour, the history, the prestige, the personalities, the circuits, the technology. Need I go on? The biggest hurdle in achieving F1 accreditation is the act of getting accredited in the first place. From the day I applied, to the day I received notice of accreditation was around three months. Needless to say, this isn’t your average local event where the criteria of ‘have camera, will shoot’ apply. Even when you’re accredited, you realise that there are different stages of accreditation too. The full season photographers obviously have more access than those who are covering on a race-by-race basis, which in my opinion is perfectly fair. For me, this was my chance to try my hand at shooting some of the fastest objects on four wheels that you can find anywhere on this planet. In this case, some access is certainly better than none. Spa Francorchamps is for me, the greatest circuit on the Formula One calendar. Set amidst the rolling Ardennes forest, it challenges both drivers and photographers alike. It’s easy to get the typical Spa shots, but seeking out that new angle was always going to be a challenge. Added to that the sheer speed of the Formula One cars and you have a challenge worth […]
Photos of the Year 2012
It’s actually quite difficult to write a review of a year whilst trying to avoid every cliché available. I guess it is always good to take the time to look back and appreciate things and learn from mistakes. Speaking personally, 2012 was a bit of a hit and miss year. Although there were certainly some fantastic moments, there was also a lot of time that needed to be endured rather than enjoyed. Photography wise, I don’t think I built upon my technical skills and ideas as much as I would have liked to, mostly due to a lack of field work in comparison to other years. However, these are all things I can focus on for 2013 and try to evolve further as a photographer. I just want to say a big thank you to everyone who comes here, to those of you who take your time to send me e-mails and everyone I’ve interacted with over the last twelve months. I hope that your best moments of 2012 are your worst ones in 2013.
Ferrari F40
Ever since I was a kid, there was only one true exotic car that held my attention. Although I respected the Lamborghinis of the same era and I admired the successors that came after the F40, the F40 still remains the only exotic car I’ve held such a deep down desire for. It took me twenty five years to see my first F40 in the carbon and it didn’t disappoint. In fact, it exceeded every single preconception or idea I’ve ever held about the world’s greatest supercar. You’ll find some giddy and excited detail shots after the jump.
Terenure Classic & Vintage ’09
Just a small selection from this years show, if you want to see the other cars, you can look through the 2008, 2007 & 2006 galleries respectively. This Cadillac Coupe De Ville on airbags did brighten my day, along with a baby Ferrari …