Andre Silva, is a journalist, photo reporter and computer engineer, that is currently photographing the Professional Bull Rider Velocity Tour. Silva shares his process and experience of documenting the sport of bull riding over the past 17 years.
In the last 17 years I have been shooting in rodeo arenas all over the world, specifically the sport of bull riding.
One of the many reasons why I’ve chosen this line of work is my passion for photography and love for animals. Throughout the years I’ve worked in different types of arenas and have encountered situations in which I’ve had to think on my feet and improvise in order to obtain the best results possible.
Most of the events in Brazil were held in an outside arena, which means many climatic factors often interfered during the work. I have photographed events during rainstorms, precarious installations, and in arenas where the lighting was near perfection.
The main information when referring to action photos is speed, as it directly impacts the result of the image in this situation. Currently, I work with the speed of up to 320 (remember, I use external flashes), the minimum I recommend is 180. The speed used on the camera is directly connected to the radio and the flash you are using, not just the camera.
MY EQUIPMENT AND SETTINGS
I work with a Canon 5D Mark IV camera, PocketWizard radios, and White Lighting flash units (usually 4 or 6 flashes simultaneously). Of course, depending on the environment and the situation, the settings may change, but typically the speed is set at 320, opening at 4.5, and ISO at the maximum of 500. This is the scenario that I consider ideal within an arena. Remember, for this particular sport, the focus should be on Al Servo and on a single point.
HOW TO: CAPTURE A GOOD PHOTO
Some factors that help in capturing a good photo include: positioning (in or out of the arena) and the installation of flashes in the arena. Think of installing flashes in the arena by basically putting together a GIANT studio. You want to ensure that both sides of the arena are the same. Regarding positioning in the arena, I really like shooting from a low angle to appreciate and capture the highest jumps from the bulls.
CONNECTING WITH YOUR SUBJECT
In addition to the technical knowledge of photography, another important part of my job is to get to know the animals and the athletes. During all these years working as a professional, I learned that knowing the way that each animal presents itself is very advantageous, with that I prepare accordingly and anticipate a good photo. During the 12 years I worked for PBR Brazil, I practically knew all the animals and athletes. With that information I was already anticipating the exact timing and right “leap” to capture the image and the reaction of the athlete after his mount. When working with flashes, it is not possible to do a sequence of photos, so I must wait for the exact moment to register the image.
EQUIPMENT USED
White Lightning™ Flash Unit
About Andre Silva
Andre Silva, is a journalist, photo reporter and computer engineer, that is currently photographing the Professional Bull Rider Velocity Tour.
BUFF BASICS 