Taking better car photos is not always as easy as it sounds. Follow our 10 simple steps and watch your photos come to life!
With your car proudly displayed at epic car shows like Japfest, Ford Fair, or Trax at Silverstone, Ford Fest at Mallory Park, or the German Car Festival or Classic Japfest at Goodwood, snapping killer photos of it is a must. Plus, there’s always loads of other cool cars on show that you’ll want to take picture of too.
But how many times have your pictures fallen flat, not representing what you see with the naked eye? We feel you – car photos can be tricky, but don’t sweat it! We’ve compiled a list of top tips to help you when it comes to taking better car photos and capture shots that do your beast justice. Whether you’re armed with a modern mirroless camera, a trusty DSLR, or just your faithful smartphone, these pointers will ensure you nail those perfect shots. Let’s get into it!
1. Nail the Framing
The first tip for taking better car photos is really simple – make sure the entire car is in the shot. Sounds basic, right? Yet, it’s a common mishap. Crop out mirrors, spoilers, or splitters, and you’ve got a ruined shot. If something’s in the way, move it. Can’t fit the whole car in? Find a different spot. Always remember, you can zoom in during editing, but zooming out isn’t an option.
2. Clean the Car
This isn’t usually a problem at car shows, but a shiny car is a photogenic car. Even a bit of grime or a few fingerprints can mess up a good shot. Before you hit the shutter button, give your car a thorough clean. Ensure windows are spotless and bodywork is gleaming. The cleaner the car, the better it’ll look on camera.
3. Remove Distractions
Visual clutter can kill a photo’s vibe. Get rid of show passes, air fresheners, and any junk inside the car. A clean, distraction-free shot looks more professional and keeps the focus where it belongs – on the car.
5. Mind the Reflections
Reflections can be tricky. You don’t want your reflection (or anyone else’s) in the shot. Check the car’s paintwork and windows for any unwanted reflections of people, trees, or buildings. A clean, reflection-free shot keeps the focus on your car’s sleek lines.
6. Watch the Shadows
Shadows can be as pesky as reflections. Ideally, you want soft, even lighting, but if shadows are unavoidable, position the car so they fall away from the main subject. Check for any shadows you’re casting too. Sometimes waiting for a different time of day can help when the sun’s position changes.
7. Focus is Key
An out-of-focus photo is a no-go. One of the easiest ways to take better car photos is get it sharp. Even smartphone cameras let you tap to focus, so make sure the car is sharp and clear. Always check the image after taking it – if it’s not in focus, take another.
8. Experiment with Angles
Angles can make a shot. Classic angles like front three-quarters, rear three-quarters, and side-on are solid, but don’t be afraid to experiment. Play around to find the most flattering angle for your car and the background.
9. Choose the Right Location
The backdrop can make or break a photo. At some shows, you might not have a ton of options, but a bit of scouting can help. Look for clean, simple backgrounds that complement your car. Think pit garages for track cars, open spaces for road cars, etc.
10. Vary the Height
Eye-level shots can be boring. Get low for a more dramatic, menacing look, or find higher ground for a unique perspective. Don’t be afraid to get on the ground or use stairs and other elevations to find interesting angles.
Taking Better Car Photos with a Smartphone
Don’t have a modern mirrorless or DSLR camera? No worries! Modern smartphones pack powerful cameras that can deliver stunning car photos. Here’s how to make the most of your smartphone’s capabilities:
1. Use Gridlines: Enable gridlines in your camera settings to help with framing and keeping your shots level. This helps in aligning the car properly within the frame.
2. Tap to Focus: Always tap on your car on the screen to set the focus. This ensures the car is sharp and the center of attention in your photo.
3. Adjust Exposure: Most smartphones let you adjust the exposure by sliding your finger up or down on the screen. This can help in getting the right lighting, especially in tricky conditions.
4. Use HDR Mode: High Dynamic Range (HDR) mode can help balance the light and dark areas in your photos, making details pop and preventing overexposed or underexposed areas.
5. Take Multiple Shots: Don’t settle for just one shot. Take multiple photos from different angles and positions. You can always delete the ones you don’t like later.
6. Edit Your Photos: Utilize photo editing apps like Snapseed or Lightroom Mobile. They offer powerful tools to enhance your photos, adjust colors, and apply filters.
Next Level Gear for Taking Better Car Photos
Camera and Lenses: A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-angle lens (24-70mm) is perfect for car photography. If you’re using a smartphone, make sure it has a good camera and consider using lens attachments for more versatility.
Tripod: Essential for stability, especially in low light. It ensures your shots are sharp and allows for long exposure if needed.
Polarizing Filter: Reduces reflections and glare, making colors pop and giving a more professional look.
Cleaning Kit: Always handy to have for those last-minute touch-ups before shooting.
Ready to take better car photos at your next show? Follow our tips, be brave an experiment, and snap away. Your Instagram feed is about to get a serious upgrade! Just rember to share those fantatsic new photos with us!
