A Few of My Faves..........
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Magic stuff, love the Hit and Run captures.
Matt Sayle
2017MSA Young Photographer of the Year(Motorsport)
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Yet more stunning photography 
OP
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Thank you once again folks.
I hope its still hitting the right spots and the accompanying wording is breaking a few of the myths about sports photography or is just proving insightful as a guide.
The Best Seat In The House
British Superbike Championship, Cadwell Park 2006
This shot just struck me in amongst all the melay and atmosphere that is a British Superbike round. The girl looked very peaceful in her isolation from the throngs on the opposite side of the circuit. Peace and quiet is not something you associate with a BSB round but the silence leaps out of the page to me in this one.
Bomb Aimer
Karl Bomber Harris - British Superbike Championship, Oulton Park 2006
Amongst all the seriousness of racing there is the occasional bit of time for the riders to let off steam and show off. The cool-down or in-lap is a prime time to watch out for stunts and antics as the riders let off that last bit of adrenaline before returning to the garage for the all important debrief with the chief mechanic. Bomber Harris rarely disappoints ..
Tag-Team
Leon Haslam & Gregorio LaVilla - British Superbike Championship, Oulton Park 2006
I picked this shot out as I love heat haze, but its normally coming from the bikes exhaust. At Oulton Park in July of 06 it was warm, stinkingly warm. The auto-focus didnt like the conditions at all but I liked this slightly different slant on the haze shot
Sticking Together
Pirelli Tyre Service Area - British Superbike Championship, Snetterton 2006
Its not until you attend a race meeting that you truly realise what goes in to putting the whole show together and why theres millions of pounds swilling around the paddock each weekend.
Besides the teams and their mechanics, press officers and chefs, the race control staff, marshals and medics, the scrutineering and technical personnel etc etc, theres a whole raft of people and equipment supporting the championship to help keeps the wheels literally turning.
The tyre technicians to me are the unsung heroes. They work quite literally flat out (pardon the pun) all weekend to keep the wheels turning. After every class, theres a queue of mechanics from the teams bringing tyres back and collecting their next allocation. It really is an ants nest of activity from dawn through to dusk.
Lean on Me
Leon Haslam - British Superbike Championship, Mallory Park 2007
Gerrards at Mallory to me was a fantastic corner until they put a new chicane in supposedly in the interest of safety. Its still a thrilling corner to stand at as the riders come past you cranked right over at well over 70mph, their gaze firmly fixed on the never appearing apex. Its even better when its a thundering V-twin you have in your sights.
The Wacky Races
James Whitham - British Superbike Championship, Cadwell Park 2007
This is a great shot. Not so much for its technical content but just the subject matter alone. Chris Jones was an up and coming racer and a huge talent even though he was aged only 14 when lost his life in a 9 bike incident at the start of the 125GP race at Cadwell Park in 2005.
Out of this tragedy was formed one of the most important charities in BSB today, the Chris Jones Memorial Fund. The CJMF raises hugely important funds that are put back into the sport in the form of medical improvements.
The CJMF cycle race held on the Saturday night of the Cadwell BSB race weekend in August is a truly fantastic event if you get chance to go and see it. Riders, mechanics, photographers, race officials and such like all get together in fancy dress to race around the woodland part of the circuit on push bikes. Its not just great fun for everyone concerned, but an important part of the fund raising calendar.
The shot shows James Whitham preparing his bike-borne catapult as his rear-gunner clasps the ammunition, namely water bombs. The crowds love it and get thoroughly involved.
Fog-Horn
Rizla Suzuki GSV-R MotoGP Bike - British Superbike Championship, Brands Hatch 2006
One of the things I love about motorsport is the high tech machinery put on show week in week out. As a petrol head myself, I love seeing the magnesium, the carbon kevlar, the titanium .Its the technological advancements and pure exotica like these that makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand.
The exhibition ride by John Hopkins at the final round of the 2006 BSB championship was once such hair standing (and ear shattering) moment. I was lucky enough to be travelling with Rizla Suzuki in 2006 so was in the garage when they wheeled out this 225bhp beast dripping in the best the technological world had to offer at the time. The forks alone were rumoured to cost £65k+.
The sublime silence of peering around this bike with my camera was nothing compared to when they started it up. That titanium pipe means business.
Irony
Chris Walker - British Superbike Championship, Silverstone 2007
Why irony .purely because one of the images I love from the 2007 BSB championship should come from the one circuit I loathe photographically speaking ..Moonverstone . It is a featureless circuit, but in this shot of Chris trailing sparks from his toe slider it actually helped. The distance I was from Chris and the huge distance from Chris to the armco in the background meant I gained a pleasing foreground blur and none of the metallic clutter that litters Silverstone behind him.
Fire-starter
Scott Smart - British Superbike Championship, Snetterton 2007
Ive already mentioned how a race machine on overrun can give you some dramatic shots if youre ready for them. Smartarse as hes affectionately known in the paddock had done several laps already in this session and I noted that the flame effect got better the warmer the engine on his ZX10RR seemed to be.
Capturing it in a single frame is a little harder than the simple arithmetic you do in your head as youre planning a shot. Similarly to the Head In The Clouds shot, I was leaving myself tight in the composition as I wanted the bike as large in the frame as possible to accentuate any flame that may appear, but without cutting any of the subject off at the extremities of the frame. It is a risk, as you may get a binnable shot after all of your efforts. Shuffling around is a common sight with a prime lens combo as you cant zoom in and out to get your compositions. You are the zoom!!!!!
Enjoy, Gc
I hope its still hitting the right spots and the accompanying wording is breaking a few of the myths about sports photography or is just proving insightful as a guide.
The Best Seat In The House
British Superbike Championship, Cadwell Park 2006
This shot just struck me in amongst all the melay and atmosphere that is a British Superbike round. The girl looked very peaceful in her isolation from the throngs on the opposite side of the circuit. Peace and quiet is not something you associate with a BSB round but the silence leaps out of the page to me in this one.
Bomb Aimer
Karl Bomber Harris - British Superbike Championship, Oulton Park 2006
Amongst all the seriousness of racing there is the occasional bit of time for the riders to let off steam and show off. The cool-down or in-lap is a prime time to watch out for stunts and antics as the riders let off that last bit of adrenaline before returning to the garage for the all important debrief with the chief mechanic. Bomber Harris rarely disappoints ..
Tag-Team
Leon Haslam & Gregorio LaVilla - British Superbike Championship, Oulton Park 2006
I picked this shot out as I love heat haze, but its normally coming from the bikes exhaust. At Oulton Park in July of 06 it was warm, stinkingly warm. The auto-focus didnt like the conditions at all but I liked this slightly different slant on the haze shot
Sticking Together
Pirelli Tyre Service Area - British Superbike Championship, Snetterton 2006
Its not until you attend a race meeting that you truly realise what goes in to putting the whole show together and why theres millions of pounds swilling around the paddock each weekend.
Besides the teams and their mechanics, press officers and chefs, the race control staff, marshals and medics, the scrutineering and technical personnel etc etc, theres a whole raft of people and equipment supporting the championship to help keeps the wheels literally turning.
The tyre technicians to me are the unsung heroes. They work quite literally flat out (pardon the pun) all weekend to keep the wheels turning. After every class, theres a queue of mechanics from the teams bringing tyres back and collecting their next allocation. It really is an ants nest of activity from dawn through to dusk.
Lean on Me
Leon Haslam - British Superbike Championship, Mallory Park 2007
Gerrards at Mallory to me was a fantastic corner until they put a new chicane in supposedly in the interest of safety. Its still a thrilling corner to stand at as the riders come past you cranked right over at well over 70mph, their gaze firmly fixed on the never appearing apex. Its even better when its a thundering V-twin you have in your sights.
The Wacky Races
James Whitham - British Superbike Championship, Cadwell Park 2007
This is a great shot. Not so much for its technical content but just the subject matter alone. Chris Jones was an up and coming racer and a huge talent even though he was aged only 14 when lost his life in a 9 bike incident at the start of the 125GP race at Cadwell Park in 2005.
Out of this tragedy was formed one of the most important charities in BSB today, the Chris Jones Memorial Fund. The CJMF raises hugely important funds that are put back into the sport in the form of medical improvements.
The CJMF cycle race held on the Saturday night of the Cadwell BSB race weekend in August is a truly fantastic event if you get chance to go and see it. Riders, mechanics, photographers, race officials and such like all get together in fancy dress to race around the woodland part of the circuit on push bikes. Its not just great fun for everyone concerned, but an important part of the fund raising calendar.
The shot shows James Whitham preparing his bike-borne catapult as his rear-gunner clasps the ammunition, namely water bombs. The crowds love it and get thoroughly involved.
Fog-Horn
Rizla Suzuki GSV-R MotoGP Bike - British Superbike Championship, Brands Hatch 2006
One of the things I love about motorsport is the high tech machinery put on show week in week out. As a petrol head myself, I love seeing the magnesium, the carbon kevlar, the titanium .Its the technological advancements and pure exotica like these that makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand.
The exhibition ride by John Hopkins at the final round of the 2006 BSB championship was once such hair standing (and ear shattering) moment. I was lucky enough to be travelling with Rizla Suzuki in 2006 so was in the garage when they wheeled out this 225bhp beast dripping in the best the technological world had to offer at the time. The forks alone were rumoured to cost £65k+.
The sublime silence of peering around this bike with my camera was nothing compared to when they started it up. That titanium pipe means business.
Irony
Chris Walker - British Superbike Championship, Silverstone 2007
Why irony .purely because one of the images I love from the 2007 BSB championship should come from the one circuit I loathe photographically speaking ..Moonverstone . It is a featureless circuit, but in this shot of Chris trailing sparks from his toe slider it actually helped. The distance I was from Chris and the huge distance from Chris to the armco in the background meant I gained a pleasing foreground blur and none of the metallic clutter that litters Silverstone behind him.
Fire-starter
Scott Smart - British Superbike Championship, Snetterton 2007
Ive already mentioned how a race machine on overrun can give you some dramatic shots if youre ready for them. Smartarse as hes affectionately known in the paddock had done several laps already in this session and I noted that the flame effect got better the warmer the engine on his ZX10RR seemed to be.
Capturing it in a single frame is a little harder than the simple arithmetic you do in your head as youre planning a shot. Similarly to the Head In The Clouds shot, I was leaving myself tight in the composition as I wanted the bike as large in the frame as possible to accentuate any flame that may appear, but without cutting any of the subject off at the extremities of the frame. It is a risk, as you may get a binnable shot after all of your efforts. Shuffling around is a common sight with a prime lens combo as you cant zoom in and out to get your compositions. You are the zoom!!!!!
Enjoy, Gc
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Guy, hate to "be the sheep" as it were, but I have to agree with what everyone else has said: these images are superb! I think the thing which strikes me most about them is how clean and uncluttered they all are. no marshals posts, no marshals, nothing to distract from the subject. Going around the tracks I have been to it i can see where the shot has been taken and in some cases its clear that the media access has been beneficial, as spectators cant get to some of the areas, but the quality of the captures are a cut above. They may not have been making you enough money but they will rekindle some great memories in years to come i suspect.
Thanks for sharing your insight and your work.
Thanks for sharing your insight and your work.
Matt Sayle
2017MSA Young Photographer of the Year(Motorsport)
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Woah, even more great shots and a fantastic insight, yet again!! Stunning. Just stunning.
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Incredible shots, the pot of gold at the end of a rainbow I shall be for ever chasing.:shrug:
Big thanks
to guy from copeimages who took the time to stear me towards the 70-300mmVR for my D60. Hope to get some practice at a couple of track days before season starts.
Big thanks
to guy from copeimages who took the time to stear me towards the 70-300mmVR for my D60. Hope to get some practice at a couple of track days before season starts.
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Guy, we are the ones thanking you. I'd only ever dream of capturing just one image like you have. For anyone that shoots sports photography, or specifically bikes will only know how hard it is to get 'that' image, the one that from the second your finger lifts after the shot has been captured you can feel happy in knowing, 'that's a keeper'. For me, that would be lucky to happen in a weekend, let alone a race, or a lap, or a corner.
Bravo my friend, bravo,
PS, I'm guessing it was a wet track???
Bravo my friend, bravo,
PS, I'm guessing it was a wet track???
OP
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Thanking you very kindly once again folks. I keep saying it, but it is good to know the stuff's enjoyed. I didn't get that impression much when I was doing it so it's nice to hear that people feel the same way i do about what goes on once the tyre warmers come off.
Hi rr, Everything except the '08 shots were taken on my Nikon D2H, mostly with the Nikkor AF-S 400mm f2.8 on. I also use the Nikon TC14E and TC 20E converters and then Nikkor's AF-S 80-200mm f2.8 and Nikkor's AF-S 17-35mm f2.8.
Ah you spotted the cast iron discs?? Yes it was wet and JH was only doing 3 laps so carbon's wouldn't have gotten up to temperature enough. He was sending it on when he could. Have a look on Rizla Suzuki's MotoGP site at the '06 stuff and there's a shot of JH where he nearly lobbed it on the white lines on the Cooper Straight (not shot by me).
Hi Kryptix, that was taken with my Nikkor AF-S 17-35mm f2.8
Whilst I'd love to see my shots in print in a dedicated book with my ramblings below, it's a bit out of my reach just now. Taking the shots is only part of it. To have made any half-decent cash from my shots at the time would have meant large scale public sales and to get that I'd have to spend several £k on advertising first which I didn't, and still don't, have.
It's just nice to give them an airing as it seems sacrilege that they're just sat on my archive drive.
Thank you again.
Guy
Hi rr, Everything except the '08 shots were taken on my Nikon D2H, mostly with the Nikkor AF-S 400mm f2.8 on. I also use the Nikon TC14E and TC 20E converters and then Nikkor's AF-S 80-200mm f2.8 and Nikkor's AF-S 17-35mm f2.8.
Ah you spotted the cast iron discs?? Yes it was wet and JH was only doing 3 laps so carbon's wouldn't have gotten up to temperature enough. He was sending it on when he could. Have a look on Rizla Suzuki's MotoGP site at the '06 stuff and there's a shot of JH where he nearly lobbed it on the white lines on the Cooper Straight (not shot by me).
Hi Kryptix, that was taken with my Nikkor AF-S 17-35mm f2.8
Whilst I'd love to see my shots in print in a dedicated book with my ramblings below, it's a bit out of my reach just now. Taking the shots is only part of it. To have made any half-decent cash from my shots at the time would have meant large scale public sales and to get that I'd have to spend several £k on advertising first which I didn't, and still don't, have.
It's just nice to give them an airing as it seems sacrilege that they're just sat on my archive drive.
Thank you again.
Guy
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Hi Guy,
Sorry I haven't responded earlier ,but dear old Mum was 90 this weekend ,been away .
Yeah,these are just what I wanted to see re request for people and verbage.
Good old D2H ,great camera ,and very good friend to me and you by looks of.
Roll on summer and a bit of heat,ice creams and death burgers,skimpy tops,a few dolly birds and great action.
Thanks Guy,have a good one,
Pons
Sorry I haven't responded earlier ,but dear old Mum was 90 this weekend ,been away .
Yeah,these are just what I wanted to see re request for people and verbage.
Good old D2H ,great camera ,and very good friend to me and you by looks of.
Roll on summer and a bit of heat,ice creams and death burgers,skimpy tops,a few dolly birds and great action.
Thanks Guy,have a good one,
Pons
Dal
Is always right
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So don't these shots get published on any of the motorsports websites or magazines? These shots are far too good to be left sitting around.
Thank you so much for posting these up. They are truely awesome.
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Those really are fantastic, many thanks for sharing.
OP
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They would Dal, but getting published on websites is not worth my while, they don't pay so I may as well just post them up myself where I want to.
In terms of the magazines, I got fed up with them messing me around. Only two are what I would call respectful to the photographer (MCN and Motorcycle Racer). By that I mean they actually let you know what they use and when, so you can prepare your invoice. So many assume you have to feel honoured to have your work in their pages (i.e. "What....you want paying for that shot....Oh we don't pay.....how absurd!!!!").
I have to pay my mortgage from my work so feeling honoured doesn't come into it sadly. Neither does buying the magazine off the shelf to see if your shots have been used because the editor doesn't have the respect to tell you that the shots you kindly submitted have been used.....I tired of hearing from a friend that my shot looked good in such and such a mag. I didn't even know it had been used so could have lost out on payment had I not been told.
The mainstream mags have their own photographers in house so you only get work published once in a blue moon anyway. It's just not frequent enough to make it worthwhile.
As I hope I've portrayed through my shots and commments accompanying them, I'm a respectful person so when having my leg lifted, I lose patience very quickly, hence I no longer go to the races...
Thanks again, Guy
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I think Bazza might have indicated at another avenue for you, Road Racing. You might have already tried this route and it didn't work, and if you have I apologise, but there are other magazines that are specific to that sport and might pay for the services too. Just a suggestion.
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I've only just found this thread and all i can say is Inspirational! I'm hoping to get to a meeting later this year if i can and if the shots i take are a fraction of the quality yours are then i will be a happy man.
Thank you for sharing these images with us, looking forward to the next installment.
I'm hoping to get to a meeting later this year if i can and if the shots i take are a fraction of the quality yours are then i will be a happy man.Thank you for sharing these images with us, looking forward to the next installment.
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Admittedly, I'm not a fan of bikes but I LOVE those shots - good work!
Matt Sayle
2017MSA Young Photographer of the Year(Motorsport)
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Come on Guy, where are the next lot :rules: 
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Howdee folks.
Have been a bit busy these last few days so haven’t had chance to dig any shots out and sort the necessary BB Code etc.
Here’s a few more shots from the CIPS archives.
“Houston………We Have A Problem”
Warwick Knowland - British Superbike Championship, Snetterton 2007
I think I’ve mentioned that 2 wheels are far more unpredictable than four, and when you lose traction on a bike, things can go very wrong very quickly. Those of you that follow bike racing will have seen Jorge Lorenzo’s mammoth high-sides during the 2008 MotoGP championship. If you haven’t , check on Youtube…….They’re frightening. It’s amazing how riders, on the whole, come off relatively unscathed from such violent incidents, which is surely testament to the forward steps in motorcycle safety gear over the years. There’s one thing for sure…….there isn’t a more thorough test bed than a race track to find out if your products are up to scratch.
Back to the shot……What is a high-side some of you may be asking? Basically it’s when the throttle is opened when the bike’s still leant over on its side. This reduces the contact patch and in some cases, that contact patch is not enough to take the power being put through it. In those instances, the back tyre breaks traction and the momentum of the bike going through the turn, sends the back tyre in an outward direction. For whatever reason, it sometimes suddenly grips again, but the sideways momentum means the bike is still trying to head sideways. The result is a violent catapult action that launches the rider over the “High Side” of the bike, hence the term. A high side is the opposite to a low-side, which is when the bike loses traction (normally on the front end) and just falls on it’s side and slides along the track along with the rider.
Warwick damaged his ankle in this incident and was out of action for a fair while.
“Scoop”
Larry “Scoop” Carter - British Superbike Championship, Cadwell Park 2007
Larry is synonymous with bike racing. He’s one of the two voices you hear over the tannoy system at BSB meetings and is often at the leading edge of any breaking news coming out of pit-lane, hence his moniker “Scoop”. He’s also the current editor of Motorcycle Racer magazine. Sometimes not to everyone’s taste, but it’s Larry’s job to feed the news to the crowds right through the race weekend as it happens. Not an easy task live on air, but his voice is part and parcel of the atmosphere at a UK National and International race meeting.
World Superbike Champion and current factory Yamaha MotoGP rider James Toseland gets the treatment.
“Ssssshmokin………….”
Tom Sykes - British Superbike Championship, Brands Hatch 2007
I love these next series of shots. Modern race bikes are producing well in excess of 200bhp nowadays. That’s some serious power for a lump of metal and carbon-kevlar that only weighs about 170kg-195kg wet-through. Trying to force that through a race slick in the heat of battle whilst trying to eek out that extra yard or 10th of a second on your competitors is a tricky task and is getting harder as engine development outstrips tyre development. The result is often a laboured engine note and a plume of blue smoke as the tyre fights for grip and fails in the relentless spanking it’s getting at the hands of a racer fixed on winning.
“Crowd Pleaser”
Jonathan Rea - British Superbike Championship, Thruxton 2007
“Darkie”
Jonathan Rea - British Superbike Championship Brands Hatch 2006
“Devotion”
Without spectators, racing doesn’t happen. The riders have no-one to entertain, the sponsors have no-one to market their products to and the circuits don’t make any revenue. Like in any sport, the younger generation are the fans, riders and team owners of the future. Their passion and devotion to the cause is just as important as any there on race day. Bike racing is a thrilling environment for a youngster with plenty of heroes to admire and emulate in later life. I’m still feel like that now and I’m nearly 4 times older than this young man.
“Bucking Bronco”
James Haydon - British Superbike Championship, Oulton Park 2006
Druids is a magical place during a Superbike round on a warm summer’s day. Partly as the trees offer some welcome respite from the heat and glare of the sun that, as a photographer, you’ve lugged your gear several miles in already that day before you reach this spot. From a photographic point of view, Druids is a classic. It’s a blind entry fast right hander (that some get very wrong) leading to a blind crest and then a flat out straight. Due to the fast entry, it’s vital to keep that momentum up as you apply the power on the exit. The only problem with that for the riders is the crest. The bikes buck and weave, often with the front end high in the air as they violently resist the power being put through them by the determined rider. Add to that the rear tyre struggling with the same power and change in direction and elevation and it all makes up a great shot. If only it was “scratch and hear”.
“Heli-med 999”
British Superbike Championship, Cadwell Park 2007
Heli-med 999 is the call sign of Yorkshire’s Air Ambulance. It’s drafted in when things so very wrong at a race meet and riders need swift and direct transport to the emergency wings of the hospitals at Hull and Louth. It’s never a welcome sight at a race meeting as it means someone’s day has gone horribly wrong. Although the race tracks have very well equipped medical centres with skilled staff, sometimes it’s necessary to get the riders to more specialist care and quick. That’s where Heli-med 999 comes in, and many people both on and off the circuit owe their lives to it.
“On a Sixpence”
Jonathan Rea - British Superbike Championship, Snetterton 2006
With the maize fields as a backdrop, it’s hard to believe this is a race circuit. There’s no armco’s, no catch fences, no pylons to spoil your shots. All the better for when Jonathan Rea comes barreling towards you at warp factor 9 on his factory Honda. It’s a very fine line between lifting the rear tyre and washing the front end out under heavy breaking. Riders like Jonathan show superb poise and seemingly effortless (note only two fingers applying the front brake) skill as they go about their work. It’s why I’m in complete awe of them sometimes, I did it once at Cadwell as it scared the be-jesus out of me at the time………Respect!!!
“Feeding Frenzy”
British Superbike Championship, Snetterton 2006
I think I said earlier that there’s more competition behind the armco’s than there is in front.
This shot is testament to that. Sports photography is highly competitive with several photographers all vying for the same 6 inches of column space in the next issue of xxx magazine.
It’s why daring to be different, daring to just dare………..is all important in motorsport snapping. If you follow the hoards, you stand the risk of producing identical work to your colleague which is not a lot of use to the editor. They like choice, they like variety……….they certainly like something different.
Hope they’re still appealing to you all.
Thanks again.
Kind regards, Guy
Have been a bit busy these last few days so haven’t had chance to dig any shots out and sort the necessary BB Code etc.
Here’s a few more shots from the CIPS archives.
“Houston………We Have A Problem”
Warwick Knowland - British Superbike Championship, Snetterton 2007
I think I’ve mentioned that 2 wheels are far more unpredictable than four, and when you lose traction on a bike, things can go very wrong very quickly. Those of you that follow bike racing will have seen Jorge Lorenzo’s mammoth high-sides during the 2008 MotoGP championship. If you haven’t , check on Youtube…….They’re frightening. It’s amazing how riders, on the whole, come off relatively unscathed from such violent incidents, which is surely testament to the forward steps in motorcycle safety gear over the years. There’s one thing for sure…….there isn’t a more thorough test bed than a race track to find out if your products are up to scratch.
Back to the shot……What is a high-side some of you may be asking? Basically it’s when the throttle is opened when the bike’s still leant over on its side. This reduces the contact patch and in some cases, that contact patch is not enough to take the power being put through it. In those instances, the back tyre breaks traction and the momentum of the bike going through the turn, sends the back tyre in an outward direction. For whatever reason, it sometimes suddenly grips again, but the sideways momentum means the bike is still trying to head sideways. The result is a violent catapult action that launches the rider over the “High Side” of the bike, hence the term. A high side is the opposite to a low-side, which is when the bike loses traction (normally on the front end) and just falls on it’s side and slides along the track along with the rider.
Warwick damaged his ankle in this incident and was out of action for a fair while.
“Scoop”
Larry “Scoop” Carter - British Superbike Championship, Cadwell Park 2007
Larry is synonymous with bike racing. He’s one of the two voices you hear over the tannoy system at BSB meetings and is often at the leading edge of any breaking news coming out of pit-lane, hence his moniker “Scoop”. He’s also the current editor of Motorcycle Racer magazine. Sometimes not to everyone’s taste, but it’s Larry’s job to feed the news to the crowds right through the race weekend as it happens. Not an easy task live on air, but his voice is part and parcel of the atmosphere at a UK National and International race meeting.
World Superbike Champion and current factory Yamaha MotoGP rider James Toseland gets the treatment.
“Ssssshmokin………….”
Tom Sykes - British Superbike Championship, Brands Hatch 2007
I love these next series of shots. Modern race bikes are producing well in excess of 200bhp nowadays. That’s some serious power for a lump of metal and carbon-kevlar that only weighs about 170kg-195kg wet-through. Trying to force that through a race slick in the heat of battle whilst trying to eek out that extra yard or 10th of a second on your competitors is a tricky task and is getting harder as engine development outstrips tyre development. The result is often a laboured engine note and a plume of blue smoke as the tyre fights for grip and fails in the relentless spanking it’s getting at the hands of a racer fixed on winning.
“Crowd Pleaser”
Jonathan Rea - British Superbike Championship, Thruxton 2007
“Darkie”
Jonathan Rea - British Superbike Championship Brands Hatch 2006
“Devotion”
Without spectators, racing doesn’t happen. The riders have no-one to entertain, the sponsors have no-one to market their products to and the circuits don’t make any revenue. Like in any sport, the younger generation are the fans, riders and team owners of the future. Their passion and devotion to the cause is just as important as any there on race day. Bike racing is a thrilling environment for a youngster with plenty of heroes to admire and emulate in later life. I’m still feel like that now and I’m nearly 4 times older than this young man.
“Bucking Bronco”
James Haydon - British Superbike Championship, Oulton Park 2006
Druids is a magical place during a Superbike round on a warm summer’s day. Partly as the trees offer some welcome respite from the heat and glare of the sun that, as a photographer, you’ve lugged your gear several miles in already that day before you reach this spot. From a photographic point of view, Druids is a classic. It’s a blind entry fast right hander (that some get very wrong) leading to a blind crest and then a flat out straight. Due to the fast entry, it’s vital to keep that momentum up as you apply the power on the exit. The only problem with that for the riders is the crest. The bikes buck and weave, often with the front end high in the air as they violently resist the power being put through them by the determined rider. Add to that the rear tyre struggling with the same power and change in direction and elevation and it all makes up a great shot. If only it was “scratch and hear”.
“Heli-med 999”
British Superbike Championship, Cadwell Park 2007
Heli-med 999 is the call sign of Yorkshire’s Air Ambulance. It’s drafted in when things so very wrong at a race meet and riders need swift and direct transport to the emergency wings of the hospitals at Hull and Louth. It’s never a welcome sight at a race meeting as it means someone’s day has gone horribly wrong. Although the race tracks have very well equipped medical centres with skilled staff, sometimes it’s necessary to get the riders to more specialist care and quick. That’s where Heli-med 999 comes in, and many people both on and off the circuit owe their lives to it.
“On a Sixpence”
Jonathan Rea - British Superbike Championship, Snetterton 2006
With the maize fields as a backdrop, it’s hard to believe this is a race circuit. There’s no armco’s, no catch fences, no pylons to spoil your shots. All the better for when Jonathan Rea comes barreling towards you at warp factor 9 on his factory Honda. It’s a very fine line between lifting the rear tyre and washing the front end out under heavy breaking. Riders like Jonathan show superb poise and seemingly effortless (note only two fingers applying the front brake) skill as they go about their work. It’s why I’m in complete awe of them sometimes, I did it once at Cadwell as it scared the be-jesus out of me at the time………Respect!!!
“Feeding Frenzy”
British Superbike Championship, Snetterton 2006
I think I said earlier that there’s more competition behind the armco’s than there is in front.
This shot is testament to that. Sports photography is highly competitive with several photographers all vying for the same 6 inches of column space in the next issue of xxx magazine.
It’s why daring to be different, daring to just dare………..is all important in motorsport snapping. If you follow the hoards, you stand the risk of producing identical work to your colleague which is not a lot of use to the editor. They like choice, they like variety……….they certainly like something different.
Hope they’re still appealing to you all.
Thanks again.
Kind regards, Guy
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Matt Sayle
2017MSA Young Photographer of the Year(Motorsport)
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Wow, they are fantastic. Yet again. Love the spectator one I still rember my first BSB day. I got the fairing off Craig Jones Triumph 600 after he binned it at Lodge. Unfortunatly it has gone missing I am really upset about that
The stoppie one is mental!!
I still rember my first BSB day. I got the fairing off Craig Jones Triumph 600 after he binned it at Lodge. Unfortunatly it has gone missing I am really upset about that The stoppie one is mental!!
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Once again folks. Thank you for the kind words. I’ve been away for a few days so not had chance to do the next installment. Couple that with having a crow come down the chimney whilst we were away and flap soot all around the house, I’ve been a tad occupied !!!!!!!
I picked out a few more of my favourite shots from my archives. I’m conscious about repetition now as there are only so many angles and things you can cover at a BSB round.
“One Wrong Move”
Karl Harris - British Superbike Championship, Mondello Park 2006
I’ve picked this shot out as it conjures up unique memories for me. If you keep your wits about you when trackside, and be continuously aware of what’s going on around you, there’s not many places where you’ll get really hurt were things to go AWOL suddenly. However, turn 2 at Mondello Park is one of those places. It’s a 90 degree left hander that the riders take pretty fast, but the exit is onto a long straight so the riders are always looking to get on the gas early to gain that minutest advantage over the competition. The thing that hampers their progress here is a series of severe bumps in the tarmac that buck and shift the bikes as they’re trying to force the horsepower into the track surface.
For a photographer this is great hunting ground as the shots are always, full-on in terms of rider effort, bike movements etc etc. The only snag is that the armco here is right next to the track (negligible run-off) and is only about 2 foot tall if that. You have very, very little protection if things go wrong as it’s damn hard to get your body protected as well as get the shots.
“Oi….No Pictures !!!!”
Jonathan Rea - British Superbike Championship, Oulton Park 2006
It’s not all work, work, work for the Superbike rider. In between the practice, qualifying and race sessions there’s a little time for relaxation………and messing about.
I was stood on the back steps of the Rizla Suzuki truck when I spotted Jonathan Rea up to apparent no-good, using his “Messing About Time” very affectively. I was intrigued to find out who his target was gonna be. It wasn’t long before he launched his water-bomb and no-one was more surprised than me to see it head towards Karl Harris. Those of you that know Karl will appreciate he isn’t the smallest or softest bloke in the paddock. Needless to say JR was no-where to be seen and there’s me stood on the steps with a 400mm poised, trying not to look vaguely suspicious!!!!!
“Line Astern”
British Superbike Championship, Mallory Park 2006
Capturing bikes in a group is not always just about the first lap, first corner. As the race progresses, the bikes spread out and you can get some pleasing shots with smaller packs of bikes. Mallory and Snetterton have ideal spots for capturing the rear bike/s leaning one way and the leading bike/s leaning the other. At Mallory you can also lose the backgrounds by using elevated shooting locations.
“Syke-O”
Tom Sykes - British Superbike Championship, Snetterton 2006
Tom’s a great rider. Like Jonathan Rea and Cal Crutchlow, he’s one of the younger breed of rider to come though the ranks onto the big scene. That youth means zero fear and full-on committed riding which is great if you’re a photographer. Despite being off the track completely and “mixing it” with the holes and dirt, Tom keeps his 600 Suzuki pinned.
“Spray of Light”
Pere Riba - British Superbike Championship, Donington Park 2006
I, like anybody, hate getting rained on when lugging my gear around the racetrack. It’s unpleasant, risky (to your equipment) and often bleeding cold. I’ve learnt though that running for cover isn’t always the best course of action as the conditions can open up a whole host of different shooting conditions for you. Get yourself well and truly “togged” up, switch off your normal photo-taking brain processes and stay where the action is.
“Me and My Shadow”
Jonathan Rea - British Superbike Championship Mallory Park 2006
Shadows can make great features in your shots if you take them into consideration when shooting in brighter conditions.
“All Done & Dusted”
British Superbike Championship, Thruxton 2006
After all the frenetic activity of a BSB round it’s almost eerie how quiet and flat everything goes very soon after the last cork is popped. It’s perhaps the biggest come-down you’ll experience as a photographer….the sudden end to all of your concentration, all of your preparation, all of your rushing, meeting deadlines, “pressing flesh”, splitting yourself in two etc etc. The drive home from the media centre at night is often a 4+ hour journey of reflection and mental shut-down.
“Kerb-Crawler”
Steve Martin – World Superbike Championship Brands Hatch 2006
It’s such a shame World Superbikes won’t be at Brands Hatch this year. It’s was the most anticipated meet of the year for me. There’s a certain air about a World Superbike round. The continental flair and flavours rub off on you and the action is certainly world class.
I picked out a few more of my favourite shots from my archives. I’m conscious about repetition now as there are only so many angles and things you can cover at a BSB round.
“One Wrong Move”
Karl Harris - British Superbike Championship, Mondello Park 2006
I’ve picked this shot out as it conjures up unique memories for me. If you keep your wits about you when trackside, and be continuously aware of what’s going on around you, there’s not many places where you’ll get really hurt were things to go AWOL suddenly. However, turn 2 at Mondello Park is one of those places. It’s a 90 degree left hander that the riders take pretty fast, but the exit is onto a long straight so the riders are always looking to get on the gas early to gain that minutest advantage over the competition. The thing that hampers their progress here is a series of severe bumps in the tarmac that buck and shift the bikes as they’re trying to force the horsepower into the track surface.
For a photographer this is great hunting ground as the shots are always, full-on in terms of rider effort, bike movements etc etc. The only snag is that the armco here is right next to the track (negligible run-off) and is only about 2 foot tall if that. You have very, very little protection if things go wrong as it’s damn hard to get your body protected as well as get the shots.
“Oi….No Pictures !!!!”
Jonathan Rea - British Superbike Championship, Oulton Park 2006
It’s not all work, work, work for the Superbike rider. In between the practice, qualifying and race sessions there’s a little time for relaxation………and messing about.
I was stood on the back steps of the Rizla Suzuki truck when I spotted Jonathan Rea up to apparent no-good, using his “Messing About Time” very affectively. I was intrigued to find out who his target was gonna be. It wasn’t long before he launched his water-bomb and no-one was more surprised than me to see it head towards Karl Harris. Those of you that know Karl will appreciate he isn’t the smallest or softest bloke in the paddock. Needless to say JR was no-where to be seen and there’s me stood on the steps with a 400mm poised, trying not to look vaguely suspicious!!!!!
“Line Astern”
British Superbike Championship, Mallory Park 2006
Capturing bikes in a group is not always just about the first lap, first corner. As the race progresses, the bikes spread out and you can get some pleasing shots with smaller packs of bikes. Mallory and Snetterton have ideal spots for capturing the rear bike/s leaning one way and the leading bike/s leaning the other. At Mallory you can also lose the backgrounds by using elevated shooting locations.
“Syke-O”
Tom Sykes - British Superbike Championship, Snetterton 2006
Tom’s a great rider. Like Jonathan Rea and Cal Crutchlow, he’s one of the younger breed of rider to come though the ranks onto the big scene. That youth means zero fear and full-on committed riding which is great if you’re a photographer. Despite being off the track completely and “mixing it” with the holes and dirt, Tom keeps his 600 Suzuki pinned.
“Spray of Light”
Pere Riba - British Superbike Championship, Donington Park 2006
I, like anybody, hate getting rained on when lugging my gear around the racetrack. It’s unpleasant, risky (to your equipment) and often bleeding cold. I’ve learnt though that running for cover isn’t always the best course of action as the conditions can open up a whole host of different shooting conditions for you. Get yourself well and truly “togged” up, switch off your normal photo-taking brain processes and stay where the action is.
“Me and My Shadow”
Jonathan Rea - British Superbike Championship Mallory Park 2006
Shadows can make great features in your shots if you take them into consideration when shooting in brighter conditions.
“All Done & Dusted”
British Superbike Championship, Thruxton 2006
After all the frenetic activity of a BSB round it’s almost eerie how quiet and flat everything goes very soon after the last cork is popped. It’s perhaps the biggest come-down you’ll experience as a photographer….the sudden end to all of your concentration, all of your preparation, all of your rushing, meeting deadlines, “pressing flesh”, splitting yourself in two etc etc. The drive home from the media centre at night is often a 4+ hour journey of reflection and mental shut-down.
“Kerb-Crawler”
Steve Martin – World Superbike Championship Brands Hatch 2006
It’s such a shame World Superbikes won’t be at Brands Hatch this year. It’s was the most anticipated meet of the year for me. There’s a certain air about a World Superbike round. The continental flair and flavours rub off on you and the action is certainly world class.
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Bloody amazing photography ,Guy,lovely wordage,superb and really interesting photography really summing up the bravery and skill of the riders ,Respect !!
Still got my D2H AND 80-200 ,none of this lot wanted the 4mp marvel,so it's staying .
As is my new Mk 3
Thanks for posting and taking the time to help us lesser mortals.
Pons
Still got my D2H AND 80-200 ,none of this lot wanted the 4mp marvel,so it's staying .
As is my new Mk 3
Thanks for posting and taking the time to help us lesser mortals.
Pons
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- Name
- Lee
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These are some awesome piccy's.
Keep em coming
Elvis
Keep em coming
Elvis
Matt Sayle
2017MSA Young Photographer of the Year(Motorsport)
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Not sure i would lob a waterbaloon at Karl tbh
These pictures are simply awesome and were a fantastic read when I was having my breakfast I hope your going to do a book!! THese are just awesome shots! Wow. One day I hope to be somewhere near this good.
These pictures are simply awesome and were a fantastic read when I was having my breakfast
I hope your going to do a book!! THese are just awesome shots! Wow. One day I hope to be somewhere near this good.
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Thank you, thank you, thank you
once again.
If only Id have had this sort of reception when I was at the racing, I might have still been there Having said that, hardly anyone ever saw my images then due to not having the mediums that were willing to publish them unless I handed them over free-gratis.
Had a quiet night so managed to sort a few more shots out for you in the event that you may be bored !!!!!
In these ramblings Im just babbling on about my own thoughts about why a shot was taken, what I felt at the time etc ..so if anyone actually want s to know any other details about my trackside work etc, feel free to shout (before age catches up with me and I forget it all).
Im intrigued about the book comments Its never occurred to me as I never got the reception to my shots that made me think, its worth the hassle to do I guess the downside now is my shots are over 18months old so probably not valid any longer Having said that, only the subject matter changes, the techniques and skills dont.
Trailblazer
John Laverty British Superbike Championship, Donington Park 2005
I worked with John (or J-Lav as hes affectionately known in the paddock) during my time with the JHP/Buildbase squad in 2006 & 2007. Cracking bloke and damn fast on a bike too.
I picked this shot out as it was one of my first pans with the 400mm prime hand-held. I dont do it that often as it usually results in multiple sessions with the chiropractor!!!!!
Crowd Pleaser
Gregorio Lavilla British Superbike Championship Brands Hatch 2005
The cool down lap of a race can be a perfect opportunity to capture special moments. The emotions and tensions built up over a championship or single race can often take over once that pressure is finally released.
Gregorio had just sealed up the 2005 championship after 13 rounds of battles, frustrations, highs and lows. His appreciation of all the support he had received from the British fans was evident to see. I think my only regret here was that I was taking the shot so couldnt join in the applause for all the entertainment Greg had given me over the season.
Pond Skater
Ben Wilson - British Superbike Championship, Donington Park 2006
This shot proves that some images can come out of nothing and that as a result, you should always be on the lookout for them.
I was crossing the track to head elsewhere and as part of that exercise I had to stop for the bikes to come around the track before crossing the next section. I happened to spot this horizon (which you dont normally get at race tracks) and the rest is history as they say.
Bomber the Ballerina
Karl Bomber Harris - British Superbike Championship, Oulton Park 2006
Karl hasnt had a lot to celebrate in recent times, suffering unbelievably poor luck since leaving the HM Plant Honda team in 2006. The old saying Youre Only as Good as Your Last Race has meant Karl has been written off as a competitive rider by some. If youd seen him race his 600 in the Supersports, youd appreciate that he isnt short of talent on two wheels. I picked these two out as theyre moments of individual showmanship you get occasionally in bike racing nad if youre in the right place at the right time, you can capture them.
Yorkshire Terrier
James Toseland World Superbike Championship Brands Hatch 2006
James is the epitome of true British fighting spirit. Hes had his doubters along the way but he keeps on winning. That spirit and gutsy riding earned him a MotoGP ride at the end of 2007 with the factory Yamaha squad. Hell be there or there abouts this year too Im sure.
We Got a Fire in Tube One
Andrew Pitt - World Superbike Championship Brands Hatch 2006
Highly tuned sports machines often turn into flame throwers when the going gets tough. This was Pittys first year on the factory Yamaha and it turned out to be a hot one too.
Late Braker
Jonathan Rea - British Superbike Championship, Donington Park 2007
This shot stirs up great memories for me once again. You get those moments in sports when you stand there completely in awe of the skills being displayed in front of you. The bikes, when captured here, are travelling devilishly quick. You can clearly see the skid marks where the back tyres have been hopping over the surface under the frantic braking for the Foggy Esses. Jonathan was sizzling this day and lap after lap, he just kept sending the bike one way or the other when slowing at the end of the straight.
This is a crop as youre so far away from the action here that even with the 1.4x or 2x on, the bikes are miles away from you (for obvious reasons when you study the seemingly out of control braking in this shot).
Lost something ???
British Superbike Championship, Croft 2006
The stresses put on racing machinery are immense, which is partly why we benefit from racing in our road going versions. Occasionally things go awry and its good to be prepared, not only for your own safetys sake but for shot taking too.
If only Id have had this sort of reception when I was at the racing, I might have still been there Having said that, hardly anyone ever saw my images then due to not having the mediums that were willing to publish them unless I handed them over free-gratis.
Had a quiet night so managed to sort a few more shots out for you in the event that you may be bored !!!!!
In these ramblings Im just babbling on about my own thoughts about why a shot was taken, what I felt at the time etc ..so if anyone actually want s to know any other details about my trackside work etc, feel free to shout (before age catches up with me and I forget it all).
Im intrigued about the book comments Its never occurred to me as I never got the reception to my shots that made me think, its worth the hassle to do I guess the downside now is my shots are over 18months old so probably not valid any longer Having said that, only the subject matter changes, the techniques and skills dont.
Trailblazer
John Laverty British Superbike Championship, Donington Park 2005
I worked with John (or J-Lav as hes affectionately known in the paddock) during my time with the JHP/Buildbase squad in 2006 & 2007. Cracking bloke and damn fast on a bike too.
I picked this shot out as it was one of my first pans with the 400mm prime hand-held. I dont do it that often as it usually results in multiple sessions with the chiropractor!!!!!
Crowd Pleaser
Gregorio Lavilla British Superbike Championship Brands Hatch 2005
The cool down lap of a race can be a perfect opportunity to capture special moments. The emotions and tensions built up over a championship or single race can often take over once that pressure is finally released.
Gregorio had just sealed up the 2005 championship after 13 rounds of battles, frustrations, highs and lows. His appreciation of all the support he had received from the British fans was evident to see. I think my only regret here was that I was taking the shot so couldnt join in the applause for all the entertainment Greg had given me over the season.
Pond Skater
Ben Wilson - British Superbike Championship, Donington Park 2006
This shot proves that some images can come out of nothing and that as a result, you should always be on the lookout for them.
I was crossing the track to head elsewhere and as part of that exercise I had to stop for the bikes to come around the track before crossing the next section. I happened to spot this horizon (which you dont normally get at race tracks) and the rest is history as they say.
Bomber the Ballerina
Karl Bomber Harris - British Superbike Championship, Oulton Park 2006
Karl hasnt had a lot to celebrate in recent times, suffering unbelievably poor luck since leaving the HM Plant Honda team in 2006. The old saying Youre Only as Good as Your Last Race has meant Karl has been written off as a competitive rider by some. If youd seen him race his 600 in the Supersports, youd appreciate that he isnt short of talent on two wheels. I picked these two out as theyre moments of individual showmanship you get occasionally in bike racing nad if youre in the right place at the right time, you can capture them.
Yorkshire Terrier
James Toseland World Superbike Championship Brands Hatch 2006
James is the epitome of true British fighting spirit. Hes had his doubters along the way but he keeps on winning. That spirit and gutsy riding earned him a MotoGP ride at the end of 2007 with the factory Yamaha squad. Hell be there or there abouts this year too Im sure.
We Got a Fire in Tube One
Andrew Pitt - World Superbike Championship Brands Hatch 2006
Highly tuned sports machines often turn into flame throwers when the going gets tough. This was Pittys first year on the factory Yamaha and it turned out to be a hot one too.
Late Braker
Jonathan Rea - British Superbike Championship, Donington Park 2007
This shot stirs up great memories for me once again. You get those moments in sports when you stand there completely in awe of the skills being displayed in front of you. The bikes, when captured here, are travelling devilishly quick. You can clearly see the skid marks where the back tyres have been hopping over the surface under the frantic braking for the Foggy Esses. Jonathan was sizzling this day and lap after lap, he just kept sending the bike one way or the other when slowing at the end of the straight.
This is a crop as youre so far away from the action here that even with the 1.4x or 2x on, the bikes are miles away from you (for obvious reasons when you study the seemingly out of control braking in this shot).
Lost something ???
British Superbike Championship, Croft 2006
The stresses put on racing machinery are immense, which is partly why we benefit from racing in our road going versions. Occasionally things go awry and its good to be prepared, not only for your own safetys sake but for shot taking too.
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- Daniel Walton
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again, great shots guy. one of the things which seems to disappoint me about tv coverage of bike racing is that you never really get a feeling for how fast the bikes are and thus how brilliant the brilliant riders are. static photographs can often fail to catch this also, but for me the jonny rea going into the foggy esses does capture that feeling.
regarding a book, i think the idea definately has legs - either as a bike racing photography how to, like tony pleavins general motorsport how to or maybe as a championship review for the years you covered the bsb. obtaining some retrospective commentary from the key players, results and stats, your own experiences from behind the lens would make a great read i'm sure. maybe you have some contacts at msv who might still be able to help.
anyway, you have some great pics, thanks for rooting through and showing them to us.
regarding a book, i think the idea definately has legs - either as a bike racing photography how to, like tony pleavins general motorsport how to or maybe as a championship review for the years you covered the bsb. obtaining some retrospective commentary from the key players, results and stats, your own experiences from behind the lens would make a great read i'm sure. maybe you have some contacts at msv who might still be able to help.
anyway, you have some great pics, thanks for rooting through and showing them to us.