What lens to use at motocross event?

[Neville Bailey]

I plan to take some pictures at a motocross event on Sunday at Highstakes, Cato Ridge.

What size lens do you recommend that I use?

My arsenal consists of the following:

• 18-55mm
• 35-80mm
• 100-300mm
• 170-500mm

I am reluctant to have to change lenses once I am there, as I imagine there will be a lot of dust flying around, so I want to fit the right lens (on average) beforehand.

Any other motocross photography tips will be appreciated!

Thanks.

[Fanie]

I would use the 100-300, keep shutter speeds low enough to still see motion in wheels etc.

[Neville Bailey]

Thanks Fanie.

With regards to the shutter speed, what would you recommend - 1/500 sec too fast?

[Roberto]

Any other motocross photography tips will be appreciated!

Its also good to use some fill flash when necessary.

[SimonDP]

100-300, ss around 1/160 to 1/320, depending on focal zoom and speed of subject. You can go slower if you haev a proper technique. A filter on the front to help against dust and possible damage from pebbles (DO NOT rely on the lens hood for this!!), Skylight 1B or UV, but test beforehand to ensure the UV doesn't affect sharpness and IQ.

[Chris F]

what Simon said.

great fun, but please be carefull .... some of those bikes go off the track most unexpectedly ....


and they DO kick up some serious stones !!

[Forgiss - Sean Nel]

ditto... although the 18-55 can make for some stunning shots if you can get into the right location

[Neville Bailey]

Thanks so much for all the advice guys!

[Neville Bailey]

Well, the photo session at the motocross event this morning turned out great!

I took over 350 pictures, walking around the track over 4 times, and I was generally very pleased with the outcome. As suggested, I only used my 100-300mm lens, and it was perfect.

You can view some of the pictures I took by clicking here.