My 2023 F1 photography equipment!
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 9 เม.ย. 2023
- Have you ever wondered what it takes to be an F1 photographer? Well, it takes a lot of gear, and in this video, I'll run you through my 2023 F1 photography equipment! As an F1 photographer, I know how important it is to have the right gear in my camera bag to capture all the action and behind-the-scenes moments of this high-speed world. From the best camera for photography to the essential equipment for recording my TH-cam videos, I'll show you what's inside my camera bag and how it all works. Whether you're an aspiring F1 photographer or just a fan looking to take your race day photos to the next level, this video has everything you need to know about F1 photography!
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Hey Kym! Thanks for the vids. Can you do a vid about guarding yourself against theft and pickpockets when travelling? You must take some precautions with all that expensive kit you carry with you.
I do very little in that regard so it wouldn’t be much of a video.
I am assuming the camera gears doesn't go with him everywhere just from airport hotel and the track. I have used PackSafe bags but it does slow you down a lot. Keeping it hard for pickpocket is also hard to keep you from accessing it. Also if you are sure of these pickpocket areas, have false wallets, don't wear expensive watches and jewelry.
@@KymIllman Thanks for reply!
Kurt, I travel with almost as much gear as Kym. One pro-tip: I use a Lowepro Protactic 450 AW ii back loading bag. Now, while it's a back loader it still has easy access zips on the outside. I use zip-ties and close ALL of these access points. I'm often in very crowded places and have felt people tugging on the zippers trying to get in.
Newer Manfrotto bags prevents theft easily but you still need to do with cable ties and locks on zips. Zips on their bags make so much noise, so even if pickpockets were to come close, the bag will alert you.
The bokeh balls from the f/1.2!!!
R3 is an amazing camera. I have an R6 Mkii with a grip (poor man’s version of the R3).
Thanks for another great video!
the R6 II is a lovely camera, nothing to be ashamed of. Are you using RF glass or adapted EF glass btw? I'm lucky to have an R3 (will be paying it off along with the mortgage for the next 25 years lol). Motorsport photography is an interest, but birding photography is my love.
@@davepastern I have a couple of RF lenses, but mostly uses adapted L series EF glass (latest generation L lenses). It’s hard for me to convince myself to part with such good glass.
@@TazawaTanks there's that and the costs of upgrading to RF glass. It is SO DAMN expensive. Not only does Canon bump the cost of RF glass up 35-40% above what the EF version costs, they remove the competition by legal action on supposed IP infringement.
So much has changed in the digital photo segment since I took drag racing photos in the 1970s with my Canon F1 equipment.
I do love the bloopers at the end of your videos Kym. It shows the real life struggle of making such polished content.
Mate, really enjoyed this! Lots o sweat and hard work to get us those fantastic pixs.. Behind the scenes is as interesting as the race itself!
I love those gear videos. actually i came to your channel via one of those gear talks three years ago. so keep going with them. I guess a lot more photographers will come across your channel through those kinds of videos. Greetings from Austria :)
Love you Kim! You provide so much great info, for both F1 and photography fans! You know I'm subscribed, and I always hit that like! Keep up the great stuff!
You're the best!
Been shooting for 40 years and the best thing I ever bought was a microfiber towel for my bag. Packs small, opens large, dries in no time....acts as extra protection in the bag too. It's the only thing you're lacking!!!
That stream deck is such a good idea, I’m going to have to remember that
Awesome information. I appreciate it !!
Hi Kym, have been following your vids since 2020. Would love to see a video on what you do to edit photos and the difference between raw and edited photos.
Thank you, really enjoyed seeing your gear.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Great video Kym! I was wondering if you could do a video about what equipment you used to bring or even wish to bring or have in the future/things you’ve learnt over your time being a photographer for motorsports
Hello Kym, very informative. Thanks for sharing and stay safe.
Thanks, you too!
Great vid!
Always brilliant
lovely, I'm doing ski and snowboard photography. I carry a lot less but I still have to ski all the runs as my athletes who are from 1/2 to 1/4 my age. They are such beautiful people though. I love it!
What a pro.
The streamdeck is so cool
Nice video
I've just ordered the Elgato streamdeck+ to pair with a standard streamdeck, it's looking like a game changer for photo and video editing!
Have fun!
I rocked the BR straps for awhile but found that I was smashing a dangling camera while leaning in close to shoot something with the other. The weight on my back also took its toll... I've been much happier with the weight on my hips, a la hiking, using the Spyder system. It also makes it easy to get on and off the ground w/o bashing your bodies like the paddock image you showed of you on the ground.
I'm still shooting D4s bodies but am looking forward to going mirrorless.
Thanks for sharing, though you didn't elaborate on the use of your Profoto shoe-mounted strobe nor the internet device thing you mentioned that you've since replaced in your worklfow.
NPS/CPS aren't at hotel and resort shoots so I have to clean my own sensors - Especially since I'm camped out > f/16 most of the time for images of spaces.
mate, go mirrorless. The AF systems are far superior to anything any DSLR can offer. I suspect noise at high ISOs with the modern MLCs will be at least a stop better than your D4S too. What's this spyder system you mentioned? Would it be any good for birding photography with a big 500f4?
Wow awesome kit. Thanks for sharing. I would really like to see a video on the best tracks for amateur photographers/general public to take photos. Cheers Zsolt😀
We don’t shoot in the public areas so I’m not much good to you there
@@KymIllman Ok thank you
I send images to my iPhone. Do you just prefer the resolution on the Google Kym?
Interesting!! ❤
Very interesting and glad you took the time to explain all the gear you carry around when going to the F1 races. I'm struggling with "sharp eyes" (shooting with a Nikon D850) and based on your video it sounds like the new mirrorless cameras do a great job. I hesitated so far to upgrade because of the many expensive lenses I own but again it looks like working with adaptors is a viable option to safe money. Glad if you could confirm my take outs.
I love the new mirrorless gear
Funny, March 25th was my first wedding photography gig
Hi Kym, 1st time in this channel, and didnt realise you are Oz until I see your phone service provider!😂😂
Always amazed to see the usefulness of those streamdecks. Might need to save up for one of those now 😅
You should!
Since I'm only a hobbyist photographer I will prefer using a DSLR over mirrorless - my eyes still prefer an optical viewfinder over an electronic one - but if I took photos for my job I would absolutely be mirrorless all the way. The focus tricks these cameras can pull are just outstanding. I had a go on my friend's nikon Z 7 and I couldn't believe how sticky and fast the focus points were. No doubt one day I'll make the switch but there's still life in my loyal DSLR, so until it dies on me I'll stick with it. Great video as always Kym.
The good old pro DSLRs are as good and fast as it gets. Just missing the modern focusing modes. On the other hand u can be pretty sure that werever you point your d5,d500,d850 etc , that's exactly where the camera will focus. The performance reached levels that will never be really outdated imho. I shoot mirror less now but zero issue with going back. Actually the viewfinder turns out not to be a concern really.
a decent modern EVF is a god send. I was very hesitant and had had bad EVF experiences in the long past (Sony RX100 II EVF, which was truly horrid). I wouldn't go back to an OVF these days. I love my R3's EVF, it's amazing - no black out, large, bright, not cluttered with information and just makes my job easier (like you, I am not a pro, but just a hobbyist). Even my R10's EVF is good enough for me to get the job done without getting cranky at it.
Hi Kim, I hope you are reading this while in good health!
One thing I'd be interested to see if you're looking for video ideas at some point (if you've not made it already), is maybe a look into what you believe makes a great motorsport photography professional, beyond just skill at actually taking photos. I'm talking things such as being able to edit and post photos very quickly after or during a session, using social media, tailoring images for instagram (i.e using different crops and aspect ratios if this is something you do) and all that sort of stuff.
I feel like we are all acutely aware of just how amazing you are at taking photos (especially personal/human elements of drivers), however I imagine there is even more skill going on beneath the surface that allows you to be the top professional you are, beyond your vast knowledge of how to take a good photo😅.
Another interesting video (if you'd be willing to reveal it) could be a look into how you plan for a race weekend from a photography standpoint. For example, whether you plan to be at certain parts of the track (or the paddock) for certain sessions, based on lighting conditions and where "the action" is happening.
Anyway, thank you a lot for the video. It's interesting as a very amateur photographer seeing what the best guys in the business carry gear wise (it can't be easy carrying all that equipment haha). Your videos are always thoroughly enjoyable, relaxing, and very informative!
Cheers from the UK!
Hi Kym, always find your vids so interesting, and seeing all your photography gear is no exception. But how the heck do you deal with the airlines ... I can't begin to imagine trying to make even one flight with all that. Yet you will make heaps. How do you do it? What gets checked. What gets carried on?
Ah, the sneaky EF 135mm f2L
Such a beautiful piece of glass.
Excellent! Does your camera gear go on the plane physically or do you check your equipment?
In the cabin with me.
The only thing that surprised me was having an extra eye piece on hand. Do you really have to change it out often? Or is it more of an insurance "just in case" kind of thing?
Has the technology changed since you first started?
Do the FIA send any recommendations to you for photo equipment?
Yes and no
Since you are speaking of photography, My Oscar Piastri signed print arrived safely in Kansas USA today. Very nice.
Great to hear. And in quick time.
@@KymIllman I have also down loaded the signing picture and have it edited a bit and it is ready to be printed. They will both go in the same frame and be a gift for a great friend of mine that is just a few days away from having his Master Degree in Geographic Information Systems.
Very interesting thank you.
Can you explain why the Google pixel is necessary? I can wirelessly DL images from my Canon to my iPhone. So I’m guessing you have a good reason.
I love the camera strap you use. I bought myself one after seeing professionals use them. It makes carrying my camera so much easier and more secure too.
I really enjoy your work Kim. Thanks so much.
I was wondering this as well.
It allows me to do stuff that the iPhone wouldn’t. Quicker transfer of pics from camera to phone and some other stuff my IT guy told me I had to have.
@@KymIllman Thanks Kim. That makes a lot of sense. Gotta love a good IT guy😃
It just leaves me to wonder why you keep the iPhone tho if it doesn't allow you to do what you are expecting for a smartphone.
Much appreciated.
Nice equipment list, only question why use the Prophoto speedlight when the Canon EL-1 has far better specs? The low power burst is insane! Makes it amazing for mixing ambient with a tiny pop of flash, the Prophoto can't do that.
First (nah just kidding Kim, your an amazing photographer have a bloody good day!
Lots of equipment :). You missing the platypod which is a great piece of equipment to keep the camera low to the ground
I have one, but never take it
wooooow, how do manage the security checks ?, with all these, do you take each one out ?
Hi Kym, great video and thanks for sharing what's in your camera bag. Was wondering what brand of camera sensor cleaners you use?, thanks.
Something generic
@@KymIllman Thanks
Curious what drew you to the Stream Deck instead of a Loupedeck? The Loupedeck would seem to have some advantages beyond tagging photos.
Far more flexible. I had a loupedeck prior to the SD
Do you use canon’s intelligent vehicle tracking? If not, I’m curious why not and if it has an upper limit or struggles with f1. I’ve seen some remarkable results with it with sports cars.
Will you get the new 100-300 f2.8L lens?
That is not a wind socks. Wind socks are those large socks you find next to the runway in the air field, they look like red or orange coloured butterfly net.
The one you put on the mic is called the “Dead Cat”.
Hi Kym, your video is clearly the one I was wanted to watch for the future of my car/sports photography. In low light conditions, did the 600mm f/4 have some struggle if you compare with 400mm f/2.8 ? Which brand of CPL you use ?
Greetings from France.
600 is fine and I have Hoya and BW
👍🏾
Thanks for sharing your photo kit. Guessing you use CfExpress B cards. Love my Canon R5.
Correct!
@@KymIllman out of curiousity, what brand of CFExpress card do you use and why?
Very interesting to see what's in you bag. One thing, you showed what you use the Google Pixel for but what is the advantage of using that over an iPhone? I use a Canon R5, and iPhone 14 Pro and an M1MacBook Pro - am I missing a trick with the Pixel?
Quicker/easier upload of images to the phone and then up to my websites
Off topic, but how good is lanclin! ❤️ as another west aussie i love going up to that area
Really enjoy your videos, how is the R3 vs. the R5? Does the smaller sensor size matter? I was wondering from your perspective of someone who has shot thousands of frames, what are the main differences? Cheers...
R3 and R5 sensor size is the same, but sensor specifications are different.
HI Kym - I presume you'll be getting the RF 100-300 f2.8 L that was announced by Canon today?
edit: any reason for going with a profoto flash over Canon's own offerings? Any tips on how to best break into motorsport photography? I have an older v1 EF70-200 f2.8L non IS, 500f4 mark 1 and 24-105f4 L mark 1 as well as a R3. I'm not a pro, so can't afford RF versions or the mark 2/3 EF versions of the longer super telephoto lenses.
Gret video. I have one large question and that is : How do you get all of that gear on the plane with you and it doesn't get damaged or lost??
I carry it in a camera bag as carry on.
Which monopod and head (if so) are you using? Still haven’t found something light weight with the twist to lock on the legs which I’d use when shooting on the Nürburgring.
Really love the more photography related stuff, really hope I can attend an f1 race as a photographer in the near future
Gitzo and I don’t use a head.
@@KymIllman thanks! 🙏🏼
What happened to your vello free wave fusion pro ??? Still using it ?
I heard pocket wizzard came up with a better shutter release system now with a firmware update...
Should see you at Silverstone
I will be there.
Where did the Guenther Steiner video go?
I think it was taken down because some people complained about the audio out of sync, even though it was fine (it had problems during the first half an hour or so after the video had been uploaded, but it was a normal TH-cam thing. After some time the video was completely fine)
@@gabrieldias3479 that sucks, I didn't even get to watch it :(
Kym, how often do you actually get decent internet at the track (apart from wifi in the media centre)? I've been to a few tracks in Asia, Melbourne (of course), and Europe and the networks were always jammed (I'm looking at you Melbourne). Do you have a satellite link backup for data? Nb. I did get good internet at Sepang at their final race because the place was empty.
It’s pretty ordinary everywhere
Hi Kym, is that all hand luggage?
Hi Kim, I loved the custom lens cover on the 600mm. Where did you get that?
Lenscoat
@@KymIllman thank you!
Hey Kym as you're about to head overseas, how do you insure all this kit? Will any of the travel insurance providers work with you?
I have an annual policy.
Do you use Photo Mechanic for photo downloading and culling or Lightroom ?
Photo Mechanic
I have my R3 in hand right now trying to figure out that file transfer trick, I usually go threw camera connect. Would you mind share a resource so that I can set that up on mine?
Book a one to one session at KymIllman.com as it’s quite a lengthy procedure that my IT guy would need to brief you on.
Do you still use the mini camera (i think it was 360° camera) for vlogging? I thought last year you started using it for convenient purposes for airport and travel filming
Never had a 360 camera but I do use a DJI camera with a fumble thingy for walk and talk stuff through airports.
Unless I'm mistaken, I seem to recall that you used the RF 100-500mm lens a few times last year. As it's not in your kit this year, I'm curious about the pros and cons. Thanks for all the info!
probably the slow f stop at 500mm - f7.1. In low light conditions, the f4 of the 600mm is a must have. And of course, for better OOF backgrounds to isolate cars, the f4 is also a far better option than f7.1 Well, this is what I suspect.
A lot to be desired with that lens. Shouldn't be as expensive as it is.
@@spencehutchinson1904 none of the RF glass should be as expensive as it is...Canon's p;rice gouging as it has no competition.
@@davepastern haha I don't disagree with you!
@@spencehutchinson1904 patents and copyrights are great for business, but terrible for consumers. Imagine a world without them, where business was forced to compete on quality and price and how much better it would be for consumers. It makes you wonder why governments the world over are so enthralled and enthusiastic about protecting businesses "rights".
Kym - do you have an opinion on the Osmo DJI Pocket 2? It’s getting rave reviews for its size and flexibility but I just wondered if you had ant experience of it. Cheers. I never miss one of your videos.
I don’t.
@@KymIllman thanks anyway
How do you find the object/vehicle tracking on the R3/R5?
Exceptional
Hi Kym, so you are using a thinktank Airport takeoff and a billingham shoulderbag? Do you travel with the 600mm without a bag?
Yes. Carry it over my shoulder
@@KymIllman Thanks for the comment, where did you get the branded lenscoat if I may ask?
What cases do you use to transport it all?
Thinktank airport roller bag
Kym, Do you find the Google pixle works with CR3 file format?
Yes but I don’t send CR3s
@@KymIllman jpegs from camera?
Hey Kim first up you were a walking encyclopaedia on F1 now you are additionally technology personified 😅
Hey Kym. love the vids. i know people have asked below but ownder if you can do something on the canon to pixel transfer. It may just save megoing fwd! if im out on shoots (usually r5) and need to send a photo i have to go through the pain of getting the canon app, connecting it, uploading etc. its an utter pain. what you did with the pixel seemed so easy! i just cant find anything on how that works (before i go out and buy an old pixel!)
Many thanks
It’s way too technical for me. Took some time for my IT guys to solve the slow upload to iPhone problem using the Android.
@@KymIllman shouldn't it just be usiung the R3 as a FTP server and pushing from the R3 to a nominated IP address (say, your iPhone)? I don't use any of the wireless functions on my R3, so I may be barking up the wrong tree. I see no valid reason why the transfer of data from camera to phone should be faster on the Google phone though.
@@davepastern yeah I think I’ve tried that as well. The main issue is to do that the camera has to have a connection to the inter webs - ie- the phone as it’s hotspot. Which means connecting it again via the app which is always hit and miss. I think there is something with google phones that uses the capture app to google server but just can’t work it out.
@@ADFOZ07 ah I guess. Many places, including F1 venues will almost certainly have wifi spots. Connect the R3 to that, then use your phone with a native 4G/5G connection (so, separate IP address). Should be easy.
I have just turned on airplane mode on my R3 becuase I was having the battery drain over a 2-3 day period whilst inactive in my Kinesis bag (to suit my 500f4). Friends on discord all said turn on airplane mode. Canon CPS think it's a mainboard issue and want me to test further (camera only, EF to RF adaptor only, lens back on etc). I'm also now experiencing hard lockups with my R3, suspected culprit is my mark 1 1.4x TC when being used with my 500f4 (also a mark 1). Saving up for a mark 2 500f4 (around 18 months of savings and the sale of my mark 1 lens). I have a mark 3 1.4x TC that I bought from keh.com but it seems that it's a dud and AF is just absolutely troublesome with my mark 1 500f4, so it's going to be returned to them.
I don't really use any of the wifi/bluetooth connectivity functions, I'm an old fashioned hobbyist who has the time to use the card and transfer files that way. For Kym, that's very inefficient and for most working pros too. I wish I could help more with the wireless issues.
Why did the Guenther Steiner video get taken down?
Lip synch was out. It will be uploaded again soon.
You should get Nitecore BlowerBaby to replace those Rocket blowers.
I'd be very cautious about damaging the sensor with that unit...
@@davepastern Old unit had separate filter for Sensor cleaning and general purpose cleaning. New one has adjustable speeds so both are usable for sensor cleaning as long as users know what filter to use or to adjust the speed.
@@ChaitanyaShukla2503 perhaps. I get rather nervous when compressed air is around delicate electronics
@@davepastern I have been using old one and wher I live(on deccan plateau) Blowerbaby has been lifesaver even during monsoons(used the fan to get rid of moisture from lens).
@@ChaitanyaShukla2503 to each their own, but I personally think you should never be using a blower directly onto a naked sensor.
What is the name of that gadget you used to transfer photos to internet something starting with a G
Glocal Me
Do you use any UV filter at all? do your expensive lenses get any scratches? what happen if you get pieces of rocks going into your front elements?
I certainly do use UV filters
@@KymIllman any brand you can recommend? I used fews but they didn't do a good job with blurred out focus background
Whats your opinion on sony mirrorless cameras?
Never touched one.
hey Kim. Can I get some of your old equipment 🙏
The potential of RF600 is different from EF600lll.☝🏻
Why did you choose canon instead of sony???
How do you get access to photograph f1
Which drop in polarizer filter do you use for you're 600?
The one Canon sells
Why not use a high end mirrorless?
Lightweight and more fps images
What do you think the R3 is
what are the reasons why you carry and use a 600mm f4 over a 400mm f2.8 lens
I don’t have a 400
First comment!
Can you still take as much photos with your R3 as with your 1dx mkIII? Don't mirrorless eat through batteries with ease? 🤔
No problem.
Just curious but what would be the total cost in USD for all the equipment shown in the video if purchased new ?
New I’m guessing about US$50k
@@KymIllman So how do you insure such a valuable cache? I bet those premiims are pretty steep as well (although Im sure it's worth every penny if you have to use it).
Kym, can you please share how you book F1 tickets, when you book tickets and where you tend to stay please ? I'm anticipating a great year in 2024 following the F1 circus.
Cheers
AlbyOneKenobi
I don't think he books F1 tickets, as he is credited as a photographer. Do you mean flight tickets?
As he's an F! photographer I doubt that he has to book tickets and even if he did they wouldn't be the same as what fans would book. He has special access at the circuits.
Video has been shot and awaits editing.
Why the Google Pixel? Are other phones not compatible?
Can’t do what I do with an iPhone.
Why don't you use the 100-400?
No wonder why you end up losing some of your gear, but I totally get what you need everything with you
Why you where your Blackrapid reverse ?
Easier to adjust the straps
How is the camera connected to internet ?
That’s not a question that can be answered quickly. My IT a guy spent some time setting up the system.
@@KymIllman but you have a SIM card in the camera ? Or it uses the phone data ?
Just a photographers question. Why not shoot with a Sony or Nikon?
Because I have so much Canon gear
i heard "I use R3's" and i was like "R3's??? like... PLURAL???"
Gotta have two
@@KymIllman will you be getter the R1 when it's released? I presume not, since you probably don't need 60+ mp for sports photography as a rule.
Wouldn't it be nice to see Kym do a special video on "The Female Fans of Formula 1?"
On the transferring I think you're skipping a few steps. Canon's good but not that good. :-)
Kym How do you get insurance for about $43,000 worth of shit constantly on the move through multiple and including dangerous countries?
Stupid Question: Why do you always prefer wearing your straps backwards?
Because I adjust the length of the straps throughout the day