Rushing to the finish line

[GSter]

At an equestrian event (Badminton Horse Trials), I took this shot, amongst others and ask for your critique on the shot.

I slowed the shutter down to 1/60 and used a 300mm tele lens, panning as I took the shot. I was in the grandstand, so had to hold the camera rather than using a monopod.



As I was a distance away I have cropped out the excess and I think the format now hopefully depicts 'speed and movement' and the overall power and need for speed to cross the line.

Would be interested in your thoughts on this.

Thanks

[BillClark]

I like it. Horse and jockey are very clear, and the colors stand out. Very nice. I have been playing with getting these types of shots and they are very difficult to get. Good job,
I am sure not intentional, but I like the red of the jockey and the reds in the stands. Seems to add something.

Only question: I didn't know horses knew how to play Badminton. Sorry. Couldn't resist.

[GSter]

Originally Posted by BillClark

I like it. Horse and jockey are very clear, and the colors stand out. Very nice. I have been playing with getting these types of shots and they are very difficult to get. Good job,
I am sure not intentional, but I like the red of the jockey and the reds in the stands. Seems to add something.

Only question: I didn't know horses knew how to play Badminton. Sorry. Couldn't resist.

Hi Bill,Thanks for your comments. I agree the red rider colours and the grandstand seat colours was pure chance, but do match really nicely.
I took about 400 shots on the day and worked out pretty quickly that I needed to pan around, not too quick / not too slow and good things would happen (fingers crossed!)

The lens is a Sigma 70-300mm APO DG to fit Nikon, so nothing 'mega' expensive, but IMO a decent lens for my needs and ability. I have had some good results with close up (macro) shots with it, taken some nice portrait shots, action shots and also some greta pics of the moon, so a real 'one size almost fits all'.

[Jim Bryant]

Good shot.............I like your panning, adds a lot to the photo and takes away a pretty distracting background.

[Eastonslight]

Love the panning in this. Great colors. I would like to see a closer perspective.