In the Steeplechase water jump

[wilgk]

I was lucky enough to be even a Hi-Vis vest to get closer to the action at a recent Interschools track & field/athletics event.

My favourite spot on the day was in the empty steeplechase water jump hole!
It allowed a different perspective on the sprinters starting.

A great event, different to the usual format.
A max 7 team group, each Individual to do 2 Individual & 2 relays only, with bonus points to the long jumpers who could 'hit' a distance they nominated, a 60m sprint instead of 100, 4x200m relay instead of 4x100 & 'power play' event, each team had to pick 1 event that earns them double point.
Our girls team came 3rd, a great day out even if it was very harsh light for photography & sunburn.

[Shadowman]

Nice angle of view and captures.

[FootLoose]

Nice action shots, Kay. I wonder if you could clone out the legs supporting the long-jumper?

[wilgk]

Nice action shots, Kay. I wonder if you could clone out the legs supporting the long-jumper?

Oooh yes of course! That would be a good idea, funny what one doesn't see!

[Manfred M]

You did not have ideal photographic conditions for this event; very harsh sun that is putting some harsh shadows as well as hot spots on some parts of the image. If you use ACR or Lightroom for edits, try playing with the Highlights and Shadows sliders to reduce those issues.

[John 2]

You have such riches in terms of sunshine Kay, something that we cannot always say in the UK. However it makes for very contrasty conditions. You have the exposure spot on for the subjects but some of the BG highlights are a bit eye catching. As an example of what I'm going on about, I've processed the first image using PS Shadows and Highlights and apart from anything else, it brings out those captivating eyes of the lead girl. I will post if you wish. Wasn't sure whether you allowed it.

P.S.
…...drat. Manfred's beaten me to it.

[Donald]

As Manfred states, you were having to work with really harsh sunlight.

However, as far as the action is concerned, you have caught this very well. You have nailed the focus on the eyes of each athlete. Well done.

[wilgk]

Thank you Manfred, John & Donald for your comments.
John Han post your edit, always welcomed.

Alice Springs (albeit some distance from here) has just broken the days without rain record... with 1mm falling to stop the record going even further.
Harsh sunlight is our ‘norm’ here.

[John 2]

A bit quick and dirty but something like this Kay:

[wilgk]

Thanks John
Yes, she pops out of th background much better.