Against the Sky ??

[Robert_Smith]

What have members found to be the best way to get good exposure of Motocross riders when they are jumping high and the only background is the bright sky. I tried spot metering but keeping the center on the rider when he is passing over you at speed is not always possible. I also tried using my light meter taking ambient readings but the rider came out over exposed.


Rob

[Tim Smith]

When shooting air shows I often start by metering the sky itself. Usually that gets me pretty close and with a little chimping, I can pretty much dial it in from there.

[DonLashier]

I agree with Tim, manual is the way to go for this, and to start off spot meter the sky at +1 to +2 stops and chimp a few shots from there. If you're lucky enough to have a clear blue sky you'll be about +1 and get shots like these. If it's a hazy day it'll be tough no matter the exposure. It doesn't hurt to be late in the day such as my examples. AE on such shots is hazardous at best.

- DL

[henryp]

If your camera-subject distance permits, meter the sky, open one stop, and then use fill flash to balance the subject so you don't end up with silhouettes.

[DougAxford]

I've never done this but I would go manual for sure. Would it not be worthwhile putting on a polarizing filter to make the sky darker & richer to highlight the rider? As long as it doesn't cost too much in exposure/shutter speed, it might give you a great impact shot.