Triggering the camera with motion

[MrKickalot]

I want to set up a camera that will take a picture as a golf club hits the ball. I am trying to find/build a trigger that will take the picture when the club passes through some sort of gate. Any Ideas? I know they make light gates that trigger when the beam is broken.

Thanks,

Jason

[PhotosGuy]

There are sound triggers, too. Problem is, it's not going to be easy unless you can fire the flash while the shutter is already open. Easy in a studio, but tough if/when you're outside unless you neutral density gell the lens opening.
If it were me, I'd try a simple contact arrangement at the face of the ball where the head hits it. Two bare wires separated by a rubber band should work. You can always clone out any wires that are showing after.

Flash - make an extension cord
http://strobist.blogspot.com/2006/04/lighting-101-build-pro-synch-cord-pt-1.html

Lighting 101: Build a Pro PC Cord, Pt. 2
http://strobist.blogspot.com/2006/04/lighting-101-build-pro-pc-cord-pt-2.html

DIY - Universal Sound and Optical Slave Flash Trigger
http://www.diyphotography.net/universal_sound_and_optical_slave_flash_trigger

Passion Fruit Death - High Speed Photography
http://www.flickr.com/photos/illuminatingdistractions/2837094123/