Automotive Photography Tutorials

Learn how to shoot cars with step-by-step photography tutorials, including scouting, camera settings, and lighting from automotive photographer Mike D’Ambrosio.

How to install fender trim on a BMW G8X M3 and M4

This will be a part of a story on deleting all of the Shadowline Trim from my M3. While all the lower sections are best left to those with access to a lift, the BMW G8X fender trim is easy enough to remove on your own. I’ll detail the steps below – set aside about…

How to build a dream BMW garage

The garage has always been a place I spend a lot of time in. From wrenching to washing, I’ve always got something cooking. When I moved into my home a little over a year ago, I made sure to get one with a garage big enough for at least 2 cars and a few additional…

How to light paint a car with gels

Light painting a car is, by now, a well known skill set. But I recently picked up some new toys, gel lights, that can give some really cool effects and make your images pop. I visit AMMO NYC’s garage to try them out on an original Lamborghini Countach. I’ll show how to make this image,…

Shooting the Jaguar XJR-15

Sometimes I put the Bimmers away and shoot incredibly rare cars. In this case, it was a Jaguar XJR-15 going up for auction with Sotheby’s (the car eventually sold for 1.9 million!). What was it like shooting this thing? Not a lot of fun…I’ll explain. The Jaguar XJR-15 Just 53 were made for use, and…

AMMO NYC Ferrari P4/5 Detail

I love this job – I never know what will be on the docket. From Formula E, to the BMW Performance Driving Center and beyond. But AMMO NYC is special; I truly never know what Larry will call on me to shoot. And if you gave me a thousand guesses, a Ferrari P4/5 would not…

Top 5 tips for shooting a classic car

Each car has a soul – you know my credo by now. When it comes to classic cars, the added years and history can make for an even more compelling image, but is shooting an old car any different from shooting a modern one? Hint: yes! Here’s my top 5 tips for shooting a classic…

What lenses should I use to shoot a car?

Like any photography genre, automotive images require some special consideration when it comes to lens selection. But don’t be overwhelmed – you just need three. Here are the lenses you should use to shoot a car. I’m on a Nikon Z7, but these focal lengths are common for almost any camera set up. Prime vs…