A perfect blend of still and motion

For many years, ever since watching Back to the Future and seeing Michael J Fox with his black Toyota Hilux truck, I have wanted my own truck, but it had to be the right truck, so when I was introduced to the Dreanged conversion of the Ford Ranger, I was in love!

After getting my truck, I was desperate to find a setting that would show off the truck in an environment that was sympathetic to its rugged yet refined look, to show it off in a setting that wasn't just the usual tarmac or concrete that most vehicles spend most of their time sitting on.

Nature and machinery in perfect harmony

This shot was taken at a local country park. The entrance fee for the park is usually around £10 but once I explained that i only wanted to take a photo of my truck in its natural habitat, the kind gate person, after drooling a little, kindly waved me through without having to pay.

Taking a slightly longer exposure from a tripod created the turbulent sky which adds mood to what is otherwise a bright blue sky day.

The setting can make a huge difference to the image

This shot, taken from the rear of the truck and capturing the reflections in the bodywork, while sat in rough grass and with the tree filling the left corner of the frame, for me, really balances the image and draws out the elegance of the truck.

From here I decided to go to another country park setting to see if I can create an image that gives a feel of exploration..

Emerging from within the woodland

Lights on and a slightly darker scene, this shot gives a feel of emerging from a secluded woodland track, not sure the gravel path gives quite the rugged feel but I do like the overall feel of the image.

Finally, I wanted to capture the truck in a more typical setting and as it was starting to get dark, I decided to see if I could get a shot with the truck surrounded by light trails.

Capturing the truck with light trails

The final shot was taken on a motorway bridge, with light trails in front and behind the truck, though the front trails are less obvious. A learning point for next time.

A perfect blend of still and motion

All in all it was a good photo session, here are a few more images to peruse.

A few more shots from the shoot