Using Only a 70-200mm lens at Brands Hatch

A 70-200mm lens is it enough? Is it too much? Is it possible to use one lens for an entire day of shooting at Brands Hatch? Throughout this article, we’ll look into the idea of using only a 70-200mm lens. All of the images in this Brands Hatch report have been captured from the spectator viewing areas.

The two 70-200mm lenses I’ve used to create this article are the Canon f/4 70-200mm USM and the Nikon Z f/2.8 70-200mm VR S. These are both full-frame lenses, although they are used with wildly different camera bodies. The Canon 70-200mm lens is being used on a Canon 80d, and the Nikon lens is being used on a Nikon Z6III. The difference between them in terms of focal length is that the Canon lens has a lens size equivalence of 105-300mm. This is due to the fact that the Canon 80d has a crop factor sensor. 

So, to begin, how versatile is a 70-200mm lens? It can be a surprisingly versatile lens choice as it can adapt from a fairly wide 70mm to a tight and close 200mm. 70mm is super helpful for getting those shots in the paddock and getting some detail shots. Having the choice of 200mm id great to get those tight and close shots of drivers or their cars. The middle range of the 70-200mm can also be one of the best ranges to use. This can provide a perfect middle ground to shoot at without having to carry a prime lens.

Shooting at 70-100mm

Shooting wide at 70-100mm; this angle can be perfect for getting a nice wide dynamic pan in a large number of circuits where you can get close to the action. 70mm can also be very ideal for capturing off-track action too, such as walking around paddocks and getting behind-the-scenes-esque images. For example, watching the support teams preparing their cars for their upcoming race(s), especially on a full-frame 70-100mm can be a fairly wide lens in the vast size of a busy paddock; there can be a lot of shots available at this length, whether it be the cars leaving the paddock or the teams working hard behind the scenes.

Shooting at 100mm-200mm

Shooting at 130mm+; this is perfect for getting those close and storytelling shots, as well as a generally motorsport photographs. Having a lens that can capably go over 150mm and retain quality is an essential piece of kit for any motorsport photographer. Given its vast uses and amazing versatility, especially at a track like Brands Hatch where you’re never too far from the action; shooting at 150mm+ can be plenty for the majority of photographers. 

Are there any drawbacks? I would say yes, the 200mm can feel limiting in some places, such as at the top of Druids aiming down the hill. This is not to say that you can’t achieve stunning images with a 70-200mm lens. However, a larger focal length can reach further and capture the cars with a more pleasing tighter field of view.

70-200mm motorsport lens conclusion

In conclusion, you can totally use only a 70-200mm lens at Brands Hatch. The pro f2.8 70-200mm lenses are super sharp and great in low light. A compact design with internal zoom and focus keeps the lens at a constant physical size. With its light weight it is a great companion for a day out shooting at Brands Hatch.

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