Capturing the Action at the Indy 500 with Chris Owens

Chris Owens is the Director of Photo Operations for IndyCar, and in this episode of The Beginner Photography Podcast, he shares what it’s really like to photograph the iconic Indianapolis 500. From his first experiences with disposable cameras as a child to leading a team of photographers at one of the world’s largest single-day sporting events, Chris details the technical, creative, and logistical challenges that come with high-paced event photography.

He explains how persistence, adaptability, and a passion for storytelling have shaped his career. Chris offers practical advice for breaking into event and sports photography, highlighting the importance of volunteering, networking, and being proactive with your portfolio.

KEY TOPICS COVERED

Breaking into Event Photography & Building a Career - Chris discusses his early fascination with capturing memories, the path from hobby to professional, and strategies for getting noticed—including the power of volunteering and keeping a portfolio visible.
Operational & Creative Challenges at the Indy 500 - The massive scale of the event requires intricate planning, teamwork, and shot lists; photographers often multitask and cover everything from action shots to sponsor events.
Creative Storytelling in Fast-Paced Environments - Chris shares the importance of finding unique angles, moving beyond standard shots, and using techniques like slow shutter speeds to capture both speed and atmosphere.

IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTS

Shot List: A detailed plan assigning photographers to specific events, angles, or moments, ensuring coverage of all necessary aspects of a large event. Relevance: Essential for organizing coverage at events as vast as the Indy 500.

DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONS

How does volunteering and working for free early in your career add value, and when should you start charging for your work?
What are the unique storytelling opportunities at massive sporting events compared to smaller assignments?
In what ways can photographers push themselves beyond “safe shots” to develop a recognizable style or perspective?

RESOURCES:
Visit Chris Owens' Website - https://www.chrisowensphotography.com/
Follow Chris Owens on Instagram -   / chrisowens  

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