Track access for photographers?

[Rob P]

Is it easy to get trackside, into the pit lane of a larger race etc with a bit of forward planning i.e calling the circuit or organiser prior to a race?

Considering taking photography a bit more seriously and this is something I would like to try, so how is it generally done?

[Byker28i]

Depends really on what you expect and what events.

I've been lucky a couple of times at trackdays to get inside the fence, behind the tyres at Brands, usually invited by the marshalls, but I've never been sure if I've been lucky or mistaken for the official photographer with my white lenses.

It's always easier at smaller club meetings than at the larger or more spnsored events. Plus you will probably need to sign an imdemnity form. However, most event photographers pay the circuit to be there so the circuit 'guards' those pitches.

However, with the right lenses then there's a good few circuits that provide good locations for photographers. Mallory hairpin, inside the hairpin at Brands, paddock at brands, castle coombe has several good spots, just to name a few.

[pixelpimp]

No it's not easy. Are you an accredited MSA photographer? If not then it's even harder. Even MSA photogs have to contact each circuit and apply submitting several recent examples of published work as well as a commissioning letter from the editor/publisher of the publications. If you're just out to hobby shoot then forget it.

[poah]

most places will also insite you have personal liabilty insurance too

[stigmundfreud]

At some places you dont need press affiliation just need the press office to know and approve your arrival

[pixelpimp]

"At some places you dont need press affiliation just need the press office to know and approve your arrival"

Which means you are totally uninsured if or when the worst happens, your own insurance is very important.