Chasing the Golden Hour

As a professional motorsport photographer and a Sony Professional Photographer, my work is driven by a desire to capture more than just high-speed action. I look for the narrative—the quiet intensity of pre-race prep, the grit of the pit lane, and the ethereal beauty of a circuit as the sun dips below the horizon. To me, motorsport is a full spectrum of emotion.

Mastering light is the cornerstone of my craft, and nothing compares to the golden hour. But what happens when you find yourself at an unfamiliar track or in a new city? Over the years, I have refined a foolproof process that blends cutting-edge technology with creative intuition. Here is my guide to scouting and capturing stunning sunsets, no matter where you are.

The Power of the Perfect Sunset

In photography, a sunset is far more than a backdrop of pretty colors. It is a tool for setting a mood, building depth, and elevating a visual story. In the world of motorsport, the right light can transform a standard track shot into a cinematic masterpiece, adding layers of drama to a car at full tilt or an intimate moment of victory.

Understanding how to locate these prime vantage points ensures you never miss the opportunity to create something extraordinary. Whether you are a seasoned pro or an enthusiast with a passion for the frame, these steps will change how you chase the light.

Step 1: Precision Planning with PhotoPills

The PhotoPills app is my indispensable "digital assistant." It removes the guesswork from scouting, allowing me to visualize the sun's movement before I even arrive. Here is how I utilize it:

1. Map the Sun’s Path: Using the Sun tab, I input the specific date and coordinates. Knowing exactly where the sun will disappear on the horizon is vital for timing my shots.

2. Identify Geographic Potential: The map feature allows me to scout for unobstructed views. I look for features that provide a strong foreground—be it water, mountains, or architectural lines—to give the image scale.

3. Target the Golden Hour: The app calculates the precise window of golden hour, when the light is at its softest and warmest.

Step 2: Leveraging Augmented Reality (AR)

PhotoPills’ AR tool is a game-changer for on-site scouting. It allows you to see the future of the landscape through your screen:

1. Visualize the Arc: by pointing your phone at the sky in AR mode, you can see the sun’s exact trajectory overlaid on the real world.

2. Identify Obstructions: AR helps me spot potential spoilers—like trees, distant buildings, or hills—that might block the light prematurely. This saves me from having to relocate when the light is fading fast.

3. Perfect Your Perspective: Often, moving just ten feet to the left or right can completely change how the light hits your subject. AR allows for that surgical precision.

Step 3: Execution and On-Site Testing

Once you have scouted the location, the final phase is all about preparation and presence.

1. The One-Hour Rule: I always arrive at least an hour early. This buffer allows me to explore the terrain, test my compositions, and look for leading lines or reflections that only appear as the light shifts.

2. Gear Optimization:
   • Use a sturdy tripod for sharp images in diminishing light.
   • Choose a wide-angle lens for vast landscapes or a telephoto to compress the sun against your subject.
   • Adjust your aperture to find the "sweet spot" for starburst effects or soft bokeh.

3. Creative Experimentation: Don’t just look at the sun. Look at what the sun is doing. Look for silhouettes, long shadows, and the way the light glints off a car’s bodywork or a driver’s visor.

Pro Tips for New Locations

• Virtual Scouting: Use Google Maps and the 3D view in Google Earth to get a feel for the terrain days before you travel.

• Talk to Locals: Local photographers often know hidden spots that aren't on any map.

• Watch the Weather: A few clouds are your friend—they catch the light and add texture to the sky. A completely grey sky, however, requires a change in plan.

A Note on Transparency

This guide is not sponsored by PhotoPills or any equipment brand. These are simply the tools and techniques I have come to rely on to ensure my work meets the highest professional standards. My goal is to share this knowledge so you can elevate your own craft.

Final Thoughts

As the founder of OMYY Media, I believe photography is the art of telling a compelling story through a single frame. Whether I am immersed in the high-octane energy of a race weekend or the serene glow of a sunset, I am always looking for that one shot that resonates.

For more behind-the-scenes insights and a look at my latest projects, join me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/mika.pietrus. Let’s continue to push the boundaries of what we can capture together.