Usually I photograph individuals or small groups, but when my wife and some of her friends signed up for a local charity race I decided to try my hand at unofficial event photography. Really, the whole concept is individuals and small groups, just more of them, right? That and I have to work with nothing but an on camera flash in rapidly changing early morning lighting conditions. The results aren't exactly stellar but it was fun and a good learning experience.

20140510_071707 The start line. You can never go wrong with a giant flag.

I tried to find a unique perspective to get the rush at the start. I ended up sitting on the ground right next to the course, just far enough away that people would start to separate, and fired off a few bursts as everyone went past.

20140510_072242 20140510_071749 20140510_072314_01 One great thing about having a large camera with a flash on it during the day is everyone likes to show off, thinking I'll make them famous or something.

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I'm pretty happy with that last one. Also, what's a charity race without mascots?

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And humorous shirts?

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Having to scout locations on the fly during the race and still get something interesting was a refreshing challenge and a good stretch for me. Also, now I know I need a fast zoom lens for the next one.