As a Steinakirchen am Forst resident based in Mostviertel (Lower Austria) I have been observing motorsport activities at both the Red Bull Ring and neighborhood events for multiple years to capture their speed and precision and intense noise. Racing photography requires more than just camera positioning to fast cars because it demands precise timing combined with specialized techniques and the ability to predict events before they unfold.
Start with the basics
I use mostly full manual, but also sometimes Shutter Priority, because motion control takes precedence in racing situations. I capture frozen racing moments by setting shutter speeds between 1/200–1/1000s along with ISO 100–800 based on lighting conditions while using f/2.8–f/8 apertures to achieve sharp images and distinct background separation. When light becomes dim I choose to increase ISO rather than allow shutter speeds to reach unacceptably slow levels.
Make panning your signature
The motion effect emerges through panning techniques in your photographs. My standard shutter speed for GT/touring cars and touring cars ranges between 1/60–1/160s while I use slower speeds in certain situations and faster speeds when photographing long straight sections. Begin with solid footing then execute smooth body movement followed by a light shutter press before continuing your movement. The medium tracking zone in continuous AF mode enables secure focus on subjects while preventing accidental shifts toward fences or posts.
Use gear that serves the moment
Mirrorless cameras from the modern era provide dependable autofocus features and real-time exposure preview capabilities through their electronic viewfinders. My track photography equipment consists of a 70–200mm f/2.8 lens and a 24–70mm f/2.8 lens for pit lane and paddock photography and a fast short tele lens like 135mm for achieving subject isolation and low-light image quality. Good timing in appropriate locations produces better results than costly equipment which fails to capture the moment correctly.
Scout with purpose
Every Austrian circuit has its own rhythm. The track inspection begins before racing starts to locate perfect background positions and optimal lighting spots. Weight transfer and brake drama become visible at track entries and precision is visible at apexes while acceleration and wheelspin become apparent at track exits. I turn fencing elements into texture backgrounds since I cannot avoid them during my photography work.
Shooting smarter along with storytelling is key
High FPS should be used during important moments such as overtakes and first laps and finish lines before switching back to single shots to achieve rhythm and timing. Your photo set should include three types of perspectives which include low-angle shots for aggressive moments and through-fence blur to create depth and contextual elements such as pit crews and grid moments and grandstands to tell the complete story.
Edit with a light hand
Keep colors honest, add contrast where it fits, and sharpen to reveal panel lines and tire texture. High-contrast days require proper management of shadows and highlights to preserve the natural depth of the scene.
Safety and conduct
Marshaled instructions and flag signals along with barrier restrictions should be followed because obtaining any photograph is not worth jeopardizing human lives outside the barriers. Trust can be established through prompt delivery and by showing respect in close situations while maintaining straightforward communication.
