Old Cars and Hot Rods

You know its summer time when the community opens the streets for antique and specialty cars!  Downers Grove in Illinois is no exception.  Every Friday night “Cruise Night” presents a different theme including live music.  Sometimes the cars overflow onto more than one street and parking lots.  You can shoot full body images of the vehicles like the one above but I prefer to shoot close-ups and details.

Interior shots are great because of the diffused lighting.  Shooting through glass can be troublesome and sometimes not possible but, if you get the angle right and close enough to block the reflections without the lens touching the glass you will be rewarded for the effort.  You could have a partner hold a dark cloth to block the reflections or setup a tri-pod.  The biggest obstacle is people especially when the show attracts large crowds.  In that case patience is required.

Shooting close at a different angle presents the opportunity for specific detail like the hot rod above.  I could have got down on my knees for a shot of the grill but my interest was in the flames.  Besides, I didn’t have knee pads to protect my pants and knees from street grime, stones, and rough surfaces.  The next time I will.

Some images look great in color but others are better in black and white.  In all cases post processing of images is necessary. Not only for converting to black and white or enhancing color but also to remove unwanted reflections and spots for a cleaner look.

Getting really close for more detail of ornamentation especially chromed parts is best in black and white.  Other times color adds more impact like the Crosley emblem below.

Wheaton Illinois has Friday night car night with a DJ playing select tunes.  Those nights are also themed for different vehicle classes.  You can find available shows on the Hemmings site for your area, https://www.hemmings.com/calendar/   or simply search for “classic car shows”.

When someone parks an antique beater that is rusting or just plain messed up be sure to shoot that car at different angles for color contrast, composition, or plain awesomeness.  I couldn’t believe it when this guy parked the car above.  Almost looks like modern art!  Don’t you think?

I hope he doesn’t drive too fast!