Two days, two cameras, over 100 cars, and racing all day. I was privileged with the task of covering this two day event, including cars on track, staff working, pits and paddock activities, podium, and post-race. All I can say is...it was an absolute rush. It was a lot, and I'd do it again tomorrow. The Harvey West weekend races are a two day event hosted by the Land O Lakes Region of SCCA at BIR. There are 6 different groups, many with separate divisions built in. Some small, some big. Each day consists of practice runs, qualifying, and then the actual races in the afternoon. Each day, winners are announced, and trophies are awarded. Driver's were not afraid to hammer down, push their cars around corners, and make the best out of the whole weekend.
Each group is entirely different than the previous, with everything from Spec Racing chassis, formula style cars, vintage racing, and open wheel cars. Each group presented some unique opportunities to get different shots at different angles. It was also the first time I got to put the Z6ii with the new 70-200 Z 2.8 lens through its paces. And boy did we ever! Between both cameras, just under 9,000 images were taken. I frequently changed between capturing cars racing by, to still shots of cars and fun shots of people celebrating. Most of the day with two cameras over my shoulder, which proved to be vital. It allowed me to get the right shot at the right focal length, without having to compromise on composition or quality. Thank you, to everyone at SCCA, for this opportunity. And thank you for being so welcoming and helpful, everyone was great. The meals were great. The whole experience was an A+. If you're a driver and looking for a fun group of people to hang out with and an awesome opportunity to test you car, I recommend it. If you don't have a car but want to be involved with in the car community, become a corner worker and volunteer with SCCA. I definitely recommend that!
And to add to the fun...
A few weeks before the event I got let in on a little secret. There was a proposal in the works, and I was asked to be there for it. How often does something like this happen at a track event? Can't say I've been apart of that before, so of course I am game! As group 3 came off the track from a qualifying run, they stopped in the hot pit area for a "group photo" and to check tire pressures. Little did one of the driver's girlfriend know (who is also a volunteer) that this was going to be more than a routine photo op and checking of tire pressure. All I can say was this was the highlight of the weekend, and was honored to be part of your special day. Congrats Aaron and Hannah!
Smiles, Hugs, Handshakes, and high Fives
At the end of each group race, there was a space set up for drivers to stop, take pictures with their car if they wanted, and stand on the podium if they placed accordingly. It was also a place to talk about the race, and celebrate a fun day no matter where they landed. Everyone around was smiling, laughing, and having a great time. These were some really fun moments to capture.
And a final thank you...
To my good buddy Cody, who happened to be up north already on a little road trip. He was able to swing by Sunday for a few hours and help shoot. He was the one that introduced me to the hobby of photography and social media coverage. Gave me a few crumbs to try and now I'm always looking for the buffet. We were just joking about this after the event, as I am definitely diving into photography head first. Was great to hang out, and put the new gear through its paces (for both of us)! Looking forward to more events this year with you man!
