Automotive Photography With Nikon Kit

Image © James Lipman

James Lipman has photographed cars for the likes of Bentley, Rolls-Royce and Porsche. He's also worked on editorial projects for Top Gear Magazine, Evo and Octane. 

James began his career by using the unloved old darkroom at his school. No-one used it, so he basically has this great facility to himself. He originally wanted to be a press photographer but after securing work in a few newspapers, decided that what he'd really love to focus in on were automobiles.

James grew up around interesting cars, with friend's parents working in the car and motorsport industries. He loves how vehicles have transformed how we get around and live independent lives.

His love of Nikon kit stemmed from a friend having lots of Nikkor lenses - and the idea that James could borrow these - he still has a 50mm f/1.2 that he borrowed all those years ago! He currently uses a Nikon D4 and D810. Recently, the D4 was put to the test as it was accidentally smashed off the side of a car it was attached to, and miraculously survived. 

"For dynamic shots, I sometimes use my D4 or D810 mounted on a carbon-fibre tripod attached to the car. I was using this set-up for one particular assignment in Wales and there was a signpost at the far end of the stretch of road we were shooting on. I told the driver, very clearly, that we had to stop before we reached it, otherwise it would smash everything off the car. On the third take, he didn't stop, and as we passed the signpost the tripod hit it and exploded into pieces, and my D4 and 24-120mm lens fell to earth, slamming into the asphalt from a height of about eight feet, at a speed of around 20mph.

I lifted the intertwined heap of camera, filter mount and tripod bits from the ground with gritted teeth, and was astounded to discover the D4 and lens in one piece and full working order – focus spot on and all controls still working. It says a lot about how well Nikon gear is built.", says James.

Find out more about James and his photography on the Nikon in frame website.