by John Rourke
Having used Elinchrom lighting for over a decade, I knew the quality they deliver. So, I was really excited to try the new Elinchrom THREE light. With its sleek design and improved performance, this light seems like a game-changer and I was thrilled when the THREE Dual Set arrived just in time for my road trip to Senigallia, Italy.
The OG Plan
The journey would start in the UK, crossing the Channel into France, through the Alps, and into Italy along the West Coast. In Senigallia, I would meet up with Harley Davidson for the Hogg Rally. I knew reliable lighting would be essential. After the Hogg Rally, I was commissioned to fly to Paris to photograph VIPs at the Le Mans 24-hour race. Once finished, I’d return to Senigallia, retrieve my van, complete a few more shoots, and head back to the UK via the Dolomites.
When Plans Go Awry
As it often happens, things began to unravel before we even left. A last-minute, urgent shoot for a client’s new go-kart track popped up, delaying us further. Photographing the go-karts was straight forward, but making them look thrilling for their website was the challenge.
Racing through the Alps to Italy, we paused at a small, cold café, where we met Simone, an elderly woman in traditional Alpine attire. She shared stories of Hannibal, Napoleon, World War II, and the Roman Empire, speaking as if she’d lived through them all. I couldn’t resist asking for a photo, and she kindly obliged, though I didn’t dare use a flash. Another long drive, and we finally reached Senigallia.
Harley Davidson
My family flew home, and my first shoot began: a VIP ride-out with Karen Davidson and a some Harley riders. I jumped into work mode, taking my usual spot, facing backward on the lead motorcycle, gripping a small bar with my legs leaving both hands free for my cameras. Unfortunately, there was no time to rig for a flash, that challenge remains for another day and a problem I’m still brainstorming. We spent the day riding along the beautiful Senigallia coastline, weaving through picturesque villages, capturing the essence of the event.
One of the most intense shoots was capturing content from the Wall of Death—a thrilling, gravity-defying motorcycle act. David, the man in charge, insisted I watch the show before collaborating. From the top, I peered down into the massive circular structure—the show was mind blowing, and I was instantly hooked. After discussing ideas with David, I regrouped before returning that evening with the Elinchrom THREE flash.
The arena was packed, so I placed the THREE on the central table to light up the space while David performed. My colleague watched from above, but I stayed inside the arena with the bikes. Using a clip board as a make shift flag, I created even lighting with the diffuser dome, while shielding myself from flare.
As the show began, an uneasy “Final Destination” vibe set in. David’s bike repeatedly failed to start, raising tension. Finally, they realized it needed fuel, spilling some during refuelling, which left me concerned. After a few sputters, the bike roared to life, and everyone sighed in relief.
The show resumed as David circled the wall, climbing higher with each lap. I captured the dramatic scene with the flash lighting up the dark arena, adrenaline pumping as I shot each pass. After his act, I turned off the flash to avoid blinding the next rider.
While the next performer took over, I was chatting with David when, suddenly, he was struck by the other rider’s bike, falling hard onto the floor. For a moment, I thought it was part of the act, but the screams of his 13-year-old daughter proved otherwise.
The medical team arrived quickly, taking David to the hospital. Later that night, we returned and learned David had a concussion and minor injuries but would fully recover. Thankfully, David was okay, but the close call left everyone shaken and grateful it wasn’t worse.
Custom Bike Show
Then came the Harley Davidson custom bike show. I used heavy diffusion filters to soften the light on the chrome and added subtle flash to enhance the sparkle. The Elinchrom THREE flash was perfect—its power and portability made it easy to capture the intricate details of these custom bikes all day.
Faces
Throughout the event, I sought out interesting faces with character. The THREE made it easy to capture detailed portraits, even in bright sun. Using the basic 18cm reflector with a grid or a simple soft diffuser dome, I created dynamic images with minimal effort. The THREE’s versatile mounting system was excellent, and easy to hold, though a dedicated hand grip would be a nice future addition.
A fellow Elinchrom ambassador suggested trying a 21cm reflector with a 3-grid set for wider light. I was also wondering if a soft white interior instead of silver would give better results. While strip boxes seemed too large for my needs, the 26cm high-powered reflector has been incredibly versatile.
I wrapped up with a few final shots. With the weekend ending the team headed home. Leaving me in Italy for few days of editing.
Le Mans 24-Hour Race
A few days later, I flew from Italy to France. The THREE is flight safe so no delays there. The following days were a blur at the Le Mans 24-hour race, capturing the VIP experience—from check-ins and presentations to exclusive meals.
At Le Mans, I hit the grid for some VIP shots before they dispersed into the crowd. My team was knocked out of the race early but I still got some night action. After a late night, and barely any sleep, there was time to shoot the last race action. Next morning, it was a taxi, flight, and train back to Senigallia, where I’d left the van.
Back and Pack
The following morning, I left early, driving up the coast, passing through Italian villages and the Tyrol region. There were so many beautiful beaches and villages, as I got closer to the mountains, the landscape changed dramatically, with vineyards covering every inch of the valley. I saw on the horizon, a massive mountain wall ahead. As I approached this wall, I looked for a mountain pass. The road climbed and zigzagged up, and I barely reached the top in time for sunset.
The Drive Home
Pushing on, I headed to Calais, caught the ferry just in time, passed out on a bench, waking up in the UK. Back at last.
Reflecting on the trip so far, many things didn’t go as planned. But the main shoots happened. The Elinchrom THREE was exceptional, all this on one charge! The battery life is incredible, and the units are so easy to travel with.
Follow John's work
www.johnrourke.com
Instagram: @thejohnrourke
This article was originally published 08/05/24 on Elinchrom.com. See the article HERE.
