Protect the camera/lens? (Motocross)

[FMX]

I have never really done any motocross photography but when I get my camera this will be my main primary goal.

For those who shoot motocross, or other dirt/debri-causing sports, do you go to great lengths to protect your equipment?

I plan on buying a 7D, which is weather sealed, and a 70-200mm f/4 non IS zoom that is not sealed. Do I "need" a filter on the lens (some kind of protectant), or do I just need to increase my viewing distance? How far do you guys usually stand back?

Any insight or tips would be appreciated before I go out and get my feet wet!

[onesickpuppy]

I believe that every lens needs a filter.........no matter what you shoot!!!
I shoot motorsports...and even in drag racing....I get residual particles of rubber, nitro juice, etc
on my lens...so having the filter provides assurance that the main glass never has to be subject to
anything harmful.

Distance to subject....all depends on what type of course...what type of clearance you have...etc.
In motorsports....long glass is always needed, as well as short. It all depends on how close your allowed to shoot from.

[FMX]

I just don't want any rocks or anything larger than dirt to come flying at me while I'm trying to get a good shot and completely mess my lens up.

Is a UV filter good enough? How much do these run and where could I find one for a 50mm and for a 70-200 mm? Both Canon.

[Hannya]

+1 on a filter. I'd also suggest some sort of weather proof cover evens cheap plastic one to protect everything from mud or dust. Never change lenses out in the open either. And consider your personal safety over that of the camera!

[FMX]

I cat find these filters online anywhere

[Big A]

I know it sounds odd but the important thing is not to worry too much about it. Every track is different and its important to walk around it before you start shooting so that you can find the good angles and stand in the right places, if you are in a position where your camera can get damaged......you are likely to get damaged also!! Mud and dust is just part of the job, Just make sure you clean your equipment after each event and get them serviced once a year.

If you are really worried about damage to expensive equipment get it insured.

Lens filters can easily be found on Amazon, B&H etc.

[FMX]

Thanks Big A.

I looked for the filters on those sites and I don't know what to buy. I looked for a standard protection + UV filter (no effect) and all I could find was like 49mm and 52mm. They skipped the 50mm! I don't understand.

I also don't know where to start in looking for a lens cover for the 70-200mm.

[DC Fan]

I can't find these filters online anywhere.

Here's an online retailer that sells UV filters. (http://www.adorama.com/searchsite/default.aspx?searchinfo=uv%20filter)

Here's another online retailer that sells UV filters. (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/buy/UV-Haze-Protection/ci/112/N/4289364451)

Here's yet another online retailer that sells UV filters. (http://robertsimaging.com/cmCatalog.jsp?cmd=A&typid=12&catid=C198)

Also, examples of images from a lens equipped with a UV filter:

http://www.kevinlillard.com/racing/20091025a0518.jpg

http://www.kevinlillard.com/racing/20091025a1004.jpg

http://www.kevinlillard.com/racing/20091025a0185.jpg

Note that there is dirt involved in this racing, and it's easier to clean or replace a filter than to have a lens' front element replaced.

[FMX]

Exactly, DC!

Those pics look sharp as far as where you have focused. Probably need some sort of before and after to really tell the difference, if any, although I don't buy into anyone saying that using a filter causes a loss in IQ somehow.

Either way, I realize the conditions, and that tracks may have different materials in them and I don't want anything hard crashing into a $600 piece of glass, ya know?

[328somewhere]

Have not used a filter for motocross. Never been roosted to the front of my body. Had the crap roosted out of my back but who cares about that. Please dont stand behind berms and right on the edge of the track. You are going to get hammered in those two places. Aside from the mud you might have to walk in, motocross is pretty clean. Unless you fall.

[GSH]

I don't even bother with "protection" filters for this sort of thing...never mind MX.

http://www.bhppix.net/Image_storage/Forum%201024x/Riponian2010/Riponian0128.jpg

My primary concern is being hit on the head by a flying rock....the camera gear is insured :D

[dmitrim]

I've shot motorcycle races before and never had issues with rocks flying. 6-10 feet away is enough to prevent it. You don't need to strap your camera to your bike to get the shots(guilty.. :) )

[50$Pit]

Get a 70-200 lens and you wont have an issue. I shoot motocross on a regular basis and with the 70-200 lens you can stay out of harms way. Just don't set up shot on the backside of a berm and you should be OK.

Here are a few samples of my pics: www.minibikephoto.com

Run a UV filter and you will be set.