How to photograph cars correctly: secrets of creating impressive shots

14.05.2018

How to photograph cars correctly: secrets of creating impressive shots

Cars are not just means of transportation, but true works of art that combine power, speed and sophisticated design. Taking pictures of cars allows you to capture their unique aesthetics, but requires a careful approach to choosing location, angle, and camera settings. In this article, we’ll look at how to create car portraits, shoot them in motion, and work with interior interiors to get shots that are breathtaking and emphasize the individuality of each model.

Choosing a location and preparing for the shoot

The first step to a successful car photo shoot is choosing the right location. You can photograph your own car, butif it’s not in perfect condition, it’s better to find a more photogenic model. For example, arrange with the owner of the carto shoot on city streets or visit a car show where modern or retro models are presented. At exhibitions, however, you may need to pay for the right to shoot, but this gives you access to a wide selection of cars in good condition. It’s important to pay attention to the condition of the car before shooting. A clean body surface is the key to aesthetic shots, asdirt or dust can be distracting. However, in some cases, a slight “imperfection” can add character to the shot,for example, when shooting vintage cars or SUVs. Also, take care of the background: it should be in harmony with the car,but not draw attention to itself. For example, a cityscape with modern buildings is suitable for sports cars, and a natural landscape is suitable for SUVs or classic models.

Creating a car portrait

A “portrait” of a car is a close-up shot that emphasizes its design and character. To create a successful shot,follow the same rules as for portrait photography of people: avoid straight angles (full-face or profile), as theymake the image look flat. The best angle is one that shows both the side and the front of the car,for example, shooting from a 45-degree angle. This approach allows you to emphasize the volume and lines of the body, making the image more dynamic. One of the main problems when shooting is the glare of the sun or flash on the body. To avoid this, choose soft,diffused lighting, for example, on a cloudy day or during the “golden hour” at sunrise or sunset. Ifyou’re shooting on a bright day, use a polarizing filter to reduce glare. Also, payattention to details: take a close-up photo of the emblem, wheel rims, grille, or headlights. Such close-ups will add variety to and emphasize the uniqueness of the car. The emotionality of a car depends on the angle and composition. For example, shooting from a low angle can make a car look more powerful and monumental, while a clean background, such as a field or asphalt, can help focus attention on the object itself. Experiment with angles and placement to bring the car to life in your photo.

Shooting a car in motion

To convey the dynamics of movement, you can use two main approaches. The first is to blur the image of the car, leaving the background static. To do this, use point focus and a slow shutter speed (for example, 1/30-1/60 second). It’s important to keep recognizable details, such as the shape of the body or wheel, so that the car doesn’t look like an abstract blob. This effect conveys speed well, but requires fine-tuning.

The second approach is the “wiring” technique, when the camera moves parallel to the car. This can be done on foot if the car is moving slowly, or from another vehicle. In this case, use a fast shutter speed (1/250-1/500 seconds) to “freeze” the car against a clear background. Wiring requires practice, because you need to synchronize the movement of the camera with the movement of the car. To do this, hold the camera steady using a tripod or monopod if possible, and follow the subject through the viewfinder.

Taking photos from inside the car

Shooting from inside the cabin is a great way to create reportage shots or panoramic shots with a unique mood. It’s easiest to work with a stationary car because it’s safer and more convenient. You can capture details of the interior, such as the steering wheel, dashboard, or leather seats, or use interior elements to frame the landscape outside the window. For example, a reflection in the rearview mirror can add depth and an interesting accent to a shot.

Shooting in motion is a more difficult but very effective option. In this case, another person should drive, and you should take care of your safety and stability. Secure yourself in a comfortable position, for example, by wearing a seat belt, and ask the driver to warn you about sharp turns or stops. Because the camera may not focus well in motion, set the focus manually to infinity, especially if you’re shooting the landscape outside the window. Measure the exposure the lightest parts of the frame, such as the sky, to avoid overexposure. For interior shots, use a wide-angle lens (18-35 mm) to capture more interior and landscape details.

Car photography is a combination of technical skill and creative vision. To create impressive shots, choose the location carefully, work with light and experiment with angles. Shooting in motion will add dynamics, and shots from the salon will add a unique atmosphere. Don’t be afraid to try different techniques, because this is how you can emphasize the beauty of car and create images that look like professional advertising photos. Whether you’re shooting your own car or a luxury supercar, the main thing is to capture its character and energy!