No it’s not the race that was on two weeks ago in Monte Carlo, and it’s not what’s going on in Montreal this weekend. It’s going on in the middle of France this week and weekend, using mostly public roads and it goes on for 24 hours…it’s the 24 Hours Le Mans!
Of all the races I’ve photographed over the years, it’s definitely my favourite race. Not because I like sports cars, I don’t! It’s because it’s a complete event not just about the race on the track…it’s the Glastonbury of motor racing as it’s often called.
The first time I shot it in 2003 I hated it! I couldn’t get over the fact I was awake for 40 hours straight! The following year the opposite happened and from then on it was something to look forward to shooting. I’ve shot it three times, and each time was a 40 hour marathon in staying awake & working. There’s something special about hiking to the back of the track at 3am to get some photography of the cars when they’re glowing, lights ablaze, flying around a mostly empty track except for a few photographers, marshals and hard core punters. Then there’s the anticipation, the waiting for a couple of hours in one spot for three specific photos- the start, the finish and the sunrise!
If you’ve ever been to an F1 race, do yourself a favour and try Le Mans at least once…it really is something special!
.jpg)
2 comments
Thanks Arek…that’s a classic shot from lemans provided the sun and sky cooperate! Usually around 6 or 7am after no sleep, adrenaline kicks in again before breakfast!
beautiful composition and the light – awesome!