How to Photograph the Finish Line at a Turkey Trot

To photograph a turkey trot finish line well, stand just past the line, shoot at 1/1000 second or faster, and focus on faces as runners come toward you.

The finish is the moment runners most want to remember: the smile, the arms up, the hug with a family member. It is also the easiest place to get a sellable photo, because everyone passes through the same few feet. Here is how to make the most of it.

Pick your position

There are three common positions, and each tells a different story:

Head-on, before the line: you see faces and effort. Stay well to the side of the course and never block the runners or the timing mats.
Side-on, at the line: you see the arch, the clock and the stride. This works well for the "crossing the line" frame.
Just past the line: you catch the reaction, the medal and the hugs. This is often the most emotional spot.

Walk the area before the first finishers arrive and look at what is behind the runners. A clean background beats a perfect angle.

Settings that work

Shutter speed: 1/1000 second or faster for runners coming toward you.
Aperture: f/4 to f/5.6 gives enough depth to keep a face sharp if the runner moves a little.
Autofocus: continuous mode with a single point or small zone placed on the face.
Burst: shoot 3 to 5 frames per runner and pick the best later.
Focal length: 70 to 200 mm is comfortable for most finish areas.

Anticipate the moment

Turkey trots are different from serious races. Many people walk, jog, push strollers or wear costumes. Watch for groups who cross together, parents lifting their kids, and friends who sprint the last few steps. Pre-focus on a spot a few feet ahead and fire as the face enters that zone. When you are working with children, stay respectful: avoid tight portraits of strangers' kids, and remove a photo promptly if a parent asks.

Work with the cold

Late November mornings can be chilly. Batteries drain faster in the cold, so carry a spare inside a pocket. Wear gloves with grip, and wipe your lens, because breath and steam from runners can fog glass. If it rains, a simple rain cover protects your gear.

Check the rules first

Many races limit access near the finish and have official photographers. Email the race organizer ahead of time to ask about credentials, where independent photographers may stand, and whether you can sell photos. If the answer is no, you can still shoot for yourself from the public spectator area.

Get the photos in front of runners

Runners usually go looking for their photos within a day or two. If you are allowed to sell, create a free Surf Snaps account and upload your gallery by session. Pick running as the sport, add the location and race date, and set your price. Runners browse on Explore by sport, location and date. Surf Snaps takes up to 10% of a completed sale, which you can pass on to the buyer, and payouts go out by bank transfer on the first of each month. Sell what you shoot, free.

For a bigger picture of the day, read how to photograph a turkey trot.

Turkey Trot Finish Line Photography FAQ

What shutter speed should I use at the finish line?

Start at 1/1000 second. Go faster if runners are sprinting, and slower only if you want to show motion on purpose.

Where should I stand to photograph the finish?

Stand to the side, outside the runners' path, either just before or just past the line. Never block timing equipment or officials.

Do I need permission to shoot at a turkey trot finish?

Spectators can usually shoot from public areas, but credentials and selling rules vary. Ask the organizer before race day.

How many photos should I take of each runner?

A short burst of 3 to 5 frames is plenty. It gives you a choice of expressions without filling your memory card.

Can I photograph children at the finish?

Be careful and considerate. Avoid close-up portraits of children you do not know, and remove any photo if a parent asks.