7 Pro Tips for Capturing the Santos Tour Down Under

The Santos Tour Down Under is Australia’s premier cycling event and a highlight on the international calendar. Drawing thousands of spectators and elite cyclists from around the globe, it showcases South Australia’s vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes. From the buzzing streets of Adelaide to the rolling hills and world-class vineyards of the Barossa Valley, this multi-stage race is a feast for the senses and a prime opportunity for photographers. Held annually in South Australia, it draws thousands of spectators and elite cyclists from around the world. Spanning multiple stages across stunning landscapes, from the vibrant streets of Adelaide to the rolling hills and picturesque vineyards of the Barossa Valley, the event is a spectacle of speed, endurance, and community spirit. Whether you’re a cycling enthusiast or simply captivated by the event’s energy, it’s an unmissable experience for photographers and fans alike. The event draws cycling enthusiasts and spectators from around the globe.

For photographers, it’s a prime opportunity to capture the thrill of the race, the vibrant atmosphere, and the stunning South Australian scenery. Whether you’re a professional photographer or a passionate hobbyist, Frankie the Creative has got you covered. As the chosen photographers for the Santos Tour Down Under, trusted by the South Australian Tourism Commission, we’ve compiled eight expert tips to help you make the most of your photography experience. Drawing from our extensive experience in covering this event, we’re here to share what works best.

1. Get to Know the Race

Before heading out with your camera, take some time to understand the Santos Tour Down Under. This isn’t just a race; it’s a multi-stage event showcasing the best of South Australia. Familiarize yourself with the routes, the key locations, and the schedule to make sure you’re in the right spot at the right time. From intense sprints in the city to picturesque climbs in the Adelaide Hills, knowing where the action happens will elevate your shots.

Key ride types to watch include:

  • City Circuit in Adelaide: Perfect for capturing fast-paced action and urban backdrops.

  • Climbs in the Adelaide Hills: Ideal for dramatic, scenic shots.

  • Finish lines: Great for high-energy moments and emotional reactions.

2. Pack Your Photography Kit Like a Pro

The right gear can make or break your day at the Tour Down Under. At Frankie the Creative, we’ve learned this firsthand through our years of experience capturing the Santos Tour Down Under as the trusted photographers for the South Australian Tourism Commission. Here’s a checklist to ensure you’re ready:

Cameras and Lenses

  • DSLR or Mirrorless Camera: These offer fast autofocus and high-speed shooting capabilities.

  • Telephoto Lens (70-200mm or 100-400mm): Essential for capturing cyclists from a distance.

  • Wide-Angle Lens (24-70mm): Great for scenic shots or capturing the atmosphere of the crowds and landscapes.

  • Spare Batteries and Memory Cards: The action can last all day, so come prepared. Chuck them in a fanny pack.

Accessories

  • Tripod or Monopod: Useful for steadying your shots during longer events.

  • Polarizing Filter: Reduces glare and enhances colors, especially in bright outdoor conditions.

  • Camera Rain Cover: Be prepared for unpredictable weather. Probably less needed here for the Tour Down Under during summer (but you never know..)

3. Dial in Those Camera Settings

Fast-moving cyclists and dynamic crowds need quick thinking and the right camera settings. Here’s how to stay ahead:

Shutter Speed

  • Use a fast shutter speed (1/1000 or faster) to freeze motion and capture cyclists in sharp focus.

  • For creative blur, like panning shots, try slower speeds (1/30 to 1/60) for a sense of movement.

Aperture

  • Wide apertures (f/2.8 to f/5.6) are great for isolating subjects with beautiful background blur.

  • For landscapes or wide crowd shots, stick to f/8 to f/11 for crisp details.

ISO

  • Keep ISO as low as possible for clear images, but don’t hesitate to bump it up in low-light settings to maintain a fast shutter speed.

4. Find the Best Spots to Shoot

Scouting locations ahead of time is key to nailing the perfect shot. At Frankie The Creative, we’ve found that arriving early to claim your spot—whether at iconic climbs or finish lines—ensures you capture the race's most dramatic moments. This strategy has been key to our success in delivering stunning images for this world-class event. Some of the best locations include:

  • Adelaide Hills: Known for its stunning views and challenging climbs.

  • Victoria Square in Adelaide: A lively hub for pre-race events and crowd shots.

  • Barossa Valley: Beautiful vineyards provide a unique backdrop for the race.

5. Don’t Forget the Little Moments

While the race is the main event, it’s the small details that can make your portfolio stand out. Consider capturing:

  • Cyclists’ intense expressions during the race.

  • Families cheering on the sidelines with flags and banners.

  • Sponsors’ logos and event branding.

  • The pre-race lineup of bikes and gear.

6. Play Around with Angles

The best shots come from thinking outside the box. Here’s how to add variety to your work:

  • Low Angles: Shoot from the ground up to make cyclists look larger than life.

  • Panning: Follow a cyclist with your camera to create a dynamic motion blur effect.

  • Wide Shots: Showcase the race’s context, from vineyards to rolling hills to bustling city streets.

7. Soak in the Atmosphere

The Santos Tour Down Under isn’t just a cycling event—it’s a celebration of South Australia. At Frankie The Creative, we love capturing the event’s vibrant energy, from candid moments that show the community spirit to the thrilling rush of riders crossing the finish line. This approach brings the event to life in every frame. Capture the spirit of the event by photographing:

  • Market stalls selling local food and drinks. Restaurants and cafes around the different regions of Greater Adelaide.

  • Families and friends enjoying the festivities.

  • Live performers and musicians adding to the vibe.

These moments show the event’s heart and make your images feel alive.

The Finish Line

Photographing the Santos Tour Down Under is an exhilarating experience, blending high-speed action with South Australia’s breathtaking landscapes. By preparing your gear, mastering key techniques, and immersing yourself in the event’s atmosphere, you can create a stunning portfolio of images that capture the heart of the race. Whether you’re shooting for personal enjoyment or professional purposes, this guide will help you make the most of Adelaide’s premier cycling event. We’ll see you all there, cameras in hand, ready to capture the action, the atmosphere, and everything that makes the Santos Tour Down Under unforgettable!

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Adelaide Event Photographer’s Lens on Tour Down Under