What's a good rate for a marathon photographer?

[David_Willoughby]

I do the same thing exept without the strip (don't like it in my photos) but the method is sound. Try to find a clean (preferably dark) backround. Depending on whether or not you are shooting full body or torso I preset my focus for similar distance 15-30feet try to be in the middle of the zoom range (I use 70- 200) or 135mm and prefocus on a point (rocks, bush, something that is part of the scene but easy to recognize) shoot the runners when the hit the zone. as your accurcy gets better you can drop your fstop from 16 to 11 to 8 to 5.6 to 4 to drop the backround out of focus and make your photos better.

Finally, the reason I use the middle of the zoom is in case I have to zoom out to get more than one racer (incase the bunch up too much or are obviosly together).

[PaulKelm]

I just came back to revisit this thread and see if there was any more advice from those with experience.

Since the last time I've shot quite a few marathons and half marathons. The advice was pretty-much right on.

I use my 70-200 almost exclusively. I usually also carry my 17-35 and 28-70 just in case I need them for start shots and promo shots. I consider a monopod a necessity. Lots of memory is important as are extra batteries. There's no time to eat or drink during a big event except in the early stages and also when the number of finishers starts to dwindle.

Rain gear is good to have for both shooter as well as equipment. I've also found that a backpack is more convenient than a bag. I picked up a mini-trekker and it's just about right for a day out.