Car photographer

A sport, a passion

Car photography is the fusion of two passions: a love of imagery and a love of the automotive world. Most photographers are freelancers, but above all they are enthusiasts who have turned their passion into a career. Whether in France, Belgium or Luxembourg, leading automotive photographers convey their emotions and perspectives through professional images.

Car photography is a field that is as exciting as it is diverse. Indeed, it encompasses several genres, such as racing, rally, reportage and portrait photography, as well as event photography and, of course, advertising.

Motorsport photographers

If you follow motor racing, such as Formula 1 (F1) or Formula E (FE), you will notice the professionals who operate at the heart of the action on the track. These individuals have access that enables them to capture photographs which inspire us.

To capture these images that thrill motor enthusiasts, photographers must obtain accreditation. This accreditation lets them take up positions at key locations: the ‘best spots’ that secure the optimal vantage point.

Equipped with professional gear – cameras with reliable autofocus (to ensure the subject remains in focus) and very long-focus lenses (to isolate the car from the background) – they bring their own perspective and create unique images.

Racing cars hurtle around the track at full speed, and this sense of speed must be conveyed through the images. These visual artists have made this their strength and often share it with us through panning shots.
This technique involves isolating the subject from the background and making it stand out. The focus is on the car, and the impression of speed is achieved by tracking (often from the side) the moving vehicle.

However, their role does not end there. These photographers are also genuine journalists. They document the behind-the-scenes action and the lives of racing drivers through portraits and images captured in the paddocks. As a result, they are proficient in a wide range of photographic genres and techniques.

Rally photographers

From a photographic point of view, it is easy to draw parallels between rallies and circuit racing.
Indeed, the approaches and skills involved are very similar.
You have to be an outstanding technician to bring out the best in the drivers and the cars.

For professional rallies, the conditions for gaining access and taking photographs are the same as those for professional photographers at the track side. Accreditation is required.

When it comes to so-called touring rallies, or ‘old-timers’ rallies, it’s a bit different.
Organisers often hire a dedicated photographer for their communications and to provide participants with high-quality professional photographs.
The photographer is therefore paid by the organisation and captures images of the various stages, behind-the-scenes moments, events and parties. He focuses primarily on the participants.

Advertising photographer

Whether shot in a studio, outdoors or on the fly, automotive advertising photography is a demanding discipline.
Showcasing the bodywork, the car’s curves and its details to their best advantage requires a skilful and thoroughly prepared approach.

• In the studio, you need a dedicated space, a backdrop and lighting equipment specifically designed for car photography. The lighting is quite complex: it must highlight the model and the car’s lines. The photographer must have everything under control and be technically flawless.

• When working outdoors, several factors must be considered:
  The location determines the final photograph. For example, we will photograph a 4×4 in a desert and a city car on a street.
  However, the weather is unpredictable and can significantly affect lighting. In such cases, the photographer compensates using professional lighting.

Whilst the actual shoot is very important, post-production is no less so. Indeed, it allows us to eliminate minor imperfections and show the car at its best. Image retouching plays a crucial role here in creating a perfect final image.

Car photography is a broad specialism. It is demanding, technical and fascinating. More than a profession, more than a sport, car photography is practised by enthusiasts for enthusiasts.

Car enthusiasts, share your passion through our professional photographers.