Candids at the Derby

It's the last day of the Derby Festival today and even thought it's probably too late to get tickets for this famous sporting event there are plenty of other races both locally and nationally still to be held that you and your camera can attend.


Gear
Horse races are popular events and can get very crowded so don't take lots and lots of kit with you. A 70-200mm will get you the frame-filling shots you're after without having to be too close to people but if it's shots of people in boxes you're after you'll need something much longer. Leave the tripod at home and work hand-held with your camera on your shoulder strap, ready to snap your shot.

Technique
Race events are a hive of activity and you'll have plenty of portraits to photograph. Of course you can shoot the jockeys in action or as they parade around the paddock but there's also fun to be had off the track. As with all events, the more money you pay the closer you'll get to the action and as a result this may restrict the type of photos you can capture so check the tickets before you head out. A popular subject are of course the ladies. Their chic outfits, particular the hats, always make great race photographs and most are more than happy for you to snap their picture, you just have to ask first. Fill your frame with your full length shots and blur the background by keeping your aperture wide to make them the centre of attention. Step back and you can capture the crowds in the grand stand or people drinking champagne in their boxes. Or get in among the throng to capture the anticipation, joy and disappointment that crosses race-goer's faces during the day. Don't forget the people who work at the race course either – the totes are always lively and will leave you with great animated shots.

As with every subject, do watch your backgrounds as they're often cluttered but if you throw them out of focus they won't be a problem.


You've read the article, now go take some fantastic images. You can then upload the pictures, plus any advice and suggestions you have into the dedicated Photo Month forum for everyone at ePHOTOzine to enjoy.