Opening Day at Delaware Park

[Whiskers Hampden]

I spent the better part of this Saturday afternoon at Delaware Park, taking my first-ever horseracing pictures. I tried panning, which was much harder than I'd imagined. I really only got one decent shot using that technique, but even then, the horse and jockey were just past me, rather than directly in front of me, so I don't think it's worth posting it here.

Anyway, please let me know what you think of this shot. All feedback is much appreciated! (and I hope I did this link correctly!)

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21954047@N05/2426124835/" title="04 19 08_0288_edited-1 by Whiskers Hampden, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3160/2426124835_df8540d218.jpg" width="500" height="332" alt="04 19 08_0288_edited-1" /></a>
Nikon D40, 200mm, 1/800s, f/5.6 @ ISO400

[cwphotography]

I love the shot. I think it came out pretty good.

[Pshorten]

Wow, what a great shoot. So clear, good color and nice composition. Nice!

[Booter]

well done, and the bright colours of their jackets is a nice touch as well.
btw, how did your horse do?? :D

[Whiskers Hampden]

I've been known to play the ponies from time to time, but on Saturday I didn't wager a single cent. :)

I was thinking that I may have cropped a little too tightly.

[candleman]

very good.. i'd be smiling if i was you.. like the boldness of the colour :)

[thatedeguy]

I think you're right. The crop is a little tight. The tail on the outside horse needs a little room and I think it could be improved by giving the horses somewhere to run in the right hand side of the picture. Otherwise, I think it's a great shot. The colors are good.

I'm not sure if anyone else noticed this or not, but the inside two horses front legs are almost in an identical position. And the outside horse isn't far off. Makes me think of a synchronized horse racing team...

[pjnr56]

I like it as well and agree about the tight crop. But nice colors and good job of capturing these guys.