High-Octane Motor Sports Photography, with Camden Thrasher & Jamey Price

Nothing beats the thundering energy and human drama that unfolds across the surface of an automotive racetrack. Photographers who specialize in this adrenaline-fueled niche are best served by nerves of steel and the high endurance to lug multiple cameras and the long lenses needed to freeze the action. In today’s show, we plunge headfirst into what it takes to cover the many facets of auto racing with two of the finest professionals in the field, photographers Camden Thrasher and Jamey Price.

From stories of unexpected hurdles to access when scouting an unfamiliar course to the mix of visual stimulation and extreme exhaustion that accompanies a 24-hour endurance race, our chat is full of real-world insights. We also discuss the gear these photographers rely on and the wear and tear that comes with hard core use. 

 And for listeners who’ve always wanted to try their hand at motor sports photography, Jamey Price shares some parting advice. “You don't build a portfolio by getting credentials,” he says. “You build a portfolio by going to races as a fan, bringing your camera, and making cool pictures from fan areas. Tell stories, do something different.”

Guests: Camden Thrasher & Jamey Price

Episode Timeline:

• 3:46: Jamey’s start as a jockey and making comparisons between photographing horse racing and motorsports
• 8:29: Camden’s early start attending auto races, then discovering photography through exploring his father’s film camera as a cool mechanical device.
• 10:25: Both photographers share their trajectory from starting out as a motor sports photographer to making it into a career.
• 18:04: A race day timeline and the many variables involved in motor sports photography.
• 27:28: Camaraderie & competition between photographers working the circuit, etiquette when shooting, and the importance of individual style.
• 37:24: The thrill of endurance racing and how photographing these 24-hour-long races differs from other types of motor sporting events.
• 43:38: Episode Break
• 45:10: Camden and Jamey’s go-to camera gear, the long lenses they lug, plus how often they use manual focus, especially when panning through people or trees.
• 54:50: Getting otherworldly visuals when faced with adverse weather conditions or unique atmospheric effects, despite the physical challenges. 
• 59:15: Wear and tear on camera gear d