One thing you won’t find too much around here is action shots. OK make that two things – people and action. I have a hard enough time focusing on stationary subjects! But this evening as I was walking around Charleston I spotted this young skateboarder, Jesse Oliver, who was jumping off a curb. He was gracious enough to let me take a few shots and I gave it a whirl. He and I were both mindful of the traffic. I’ve certainly have seen plenty of skateboard photos over the years done by top-notch photographers who specialize in such shots. My photo is far from those. The best shots usually are taken close-up with ultra-wide angle lenses and larger strobes (I used my cameras built-in unit). Either way it was a fun distraction from my normal work and it beat out my original shot for the day of, what else, rusty junk. Pentax K20D, DA 17-70.
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Jesse
What I Pic 
Hi my name is Carrie…i just wanted to comment on this photo…not only is this kid a skateboarder..hes a very talented young man…he has a love for skateboarding and hes good at it..if people would give these kids a chance instead of turning their heads or turning their noses up ..they would see that these kids are the same as any other kid and all their looking for is a good place to skate to show their talent…the reason i know this is because not only is he a skateboarder…hes my son…an i wanted to let you know that people like you who actually take a minute to notice things is what gives these kids a reason to skate…thanks for taking the time…
You’re welcome. Jesse was a very nice and accommodating young man. I don’t often do people photography, as you can probably tell, but I have found skateboarders in general to be great kids. I was one at one time so I have as much respect for their craft as hopefully they do towards mine.
Just wanted to comment on ur pic..u say that most people would use better equipment..i think u captured what needed to be captured..u can see the interest and determination in this kids face
Thank you Vinny, I appreciate your comment. I work with what I have! I know it’s not always the tools but who’s using them that matters but sometimes the tools are nice 😉
Hi I wanted to say that you did a awesome job capturing this young man, who happens to be my nephew. I agree with his mom Carrie about how young kids who are skaters are often looked at as “bad” kids and have people turn their noses up to them. Its such a shame that Charleston doesnt have a park for them to showcase there talents and work on bettering their skills. These are not always bad kids and if the kids had a safe place to go they wouldnt be on the streets. I wish my nephew Jesse the best with his skating skills and I can’t wait to see him on tv one day. Oh and Thank You for being mindful of the traffice while showcasing his and your talents.
You’re welcome. Like I mentioned to Carrie, Jesse was accommodating to me and very safety minded. I spotted his talent while I was taking other shots and thought it would be fun to try something different. Charleston is not alone in respect to places where youth can enjoy recreation safely. In Pennsylvania, where I live, there are very few such places either.
I think u did an awsome job with that photo, I’ve seen some professional shots look as good as that and I want to thank my family for their support. I wldnt have made it this far in skating without them
Thanks Jesse. I’m glad you like it. I enjoyed the challenge. Just keep practicing and perfecting your techniques and you’ll be fine. I look forward to seeing you in a skating magazine or website someday.