Pit Lanes, Paddocks and Panoramics with David Jones and the Sprocket Rocket

UK-based CGI artist and motorsport enthusiast David Jones also has a penchant for film photography. We recently discovered his collection of Sprocket Rocket photos which perfectly captures the fun and easy nature of this panoramic 35 mm camera. David talked to us about his reasons for shooting racing cars on film and he shared some advice for anyone who wants to give this camera a try.

Hi David, please tell us about yourself?

Hi, I'm David, I'm based in the North West of England and I work full time in a creative role as a CGI artist. My two big passions are film photography and vintage cars/motorsport, and the two of those usually go hand in hand! I love getting out with various cameras, trying to capture the atmosphere of motorsport events, and getting back to the darkroom to see the results. I also enjoy the slower pace of being out exploring the Lake District... also with cameras.

What made you decide to shoot with the Sprocket Rocket and what do you choose to shoot?

I’m always looking for different formats to shoot, and enjoy cameras that have a “look”, and the Sprocket Rocket ticked both of those boxes. I also use a lot of big and slow cameras, so picking up a relatively straightforward and quick camera to use is refreshing sometimes, and so much fun. When I got the Sprocket Rocket I had in mind shooting landscapes and capturing travels, but I randomly decided to take it to a motorsport event, and now that’s where I see myself using it the most.

What's the appeal of shooting with a panoramic 35mm camera?

When I’m at motorsport events, my ‘go to’ has always been medium format, and occasionally large format, with longer focal lengths to isolate subjects. The wide panoramic format of the Sprocket Rocket is such a good contrast to that, great for capturing the wider atmosphere. There’s always a lot going on in the busy paddocks and pit lanes of a motorsport event, and this camera, and format, definitely helps to capture it in a way I’ve missed before. Also being 35 mm panoramic with the sprocket holes, it almost feels like medium format.

What tips would you give to someone wanting to try this camera out?

Just go for it and have fun! Don’t limit what subjects and situations you use it for. I’m still new to the camera and experimenting, and these shots were only the second roll of film I put through it, but I quickly realised the viewfinder can definitely be trusted and is surprisingly accurate. Don’t be afraid to use it in portrait, as there’s so much potential for different compositions. Fit a strap to keep it close at hand, even as a second camera, as it’s so small and lightweight. Enjoy not having to think about shutter speeds, apertures, DOF, and just think about those panoramic compositions that are so fun to play with.

To see more of David's work, visit his Instagram page.

2025-06-29 #gear #people #sport #uk #lancashire #sprocket-rocket #motorsports Share Article