In this episode of the Car Chat Podcast, photographer Kevin McCauley, renowned for his distinctive automotive imagery shares insights from his journey from graphic design to professional car photography. Kevin details his evolution from shooting exclusively on iPhones to producing editorial, commercial, and auction photography for leading automotive brands. The discussion explores his unique approach to capturing cars, the importance of embracing event atmospheres, and his new book, "Waiting for the Sun to Come Down," which highlights dramatic car photography in challenging lighting. Kevin also dives into the nuances of social media presence, his approach to creative inspiration, and balancing video and photo projects.
Enjoy.
Explore more about Kevin's work: https://capturingthemachine.com
Show Notes:
00:00 Navigating the Challenges of Car Photography
03:12 The Journey from Graphic Design to Car Photography
06:09 The Balancing Act: Writing and Photography
09:00 The Evolution of Video Content Creation
11:52 Exploring Unique Car Projects
15:00 The Impact of Environment on Car Photography
18:01 The Art of Shooting with a Phone
20:55 Transitioning Back to Professional Photography
23:53 Creating a Book: The Process and Inspiration
37:04 Arranging the Visual Narrative
39:27 The Role of the Publisher
40:53 Choosing the Right Foreword
44:49 Marketing and Production Decisions
46:30 Passion Over Profit
49:35 Creating a Unique Photography Book
51:14 The Evolution of Photography Styles
56:11 The Impact of Technology on Photography
01:01:55 Social Media Strategy and Challenges
01:10:46 The Journey of Car Photography
01:11:52 The Power of Photography
01:14:52 Memories Captured Through Photos
01:16:44 Exploring Photography Techniques
01:20:44 The Challenges of Event Photography
01:23:54 Incorporating People in Photography
01:29:32 The Art of Street Photography
01:34:55 Color Dynamics in Car Photography
01:38:44 Memorable Driving Experiences
01:40:39 The Future of Cars and EVs
01:41:34 Building the Ultimate Car Garage
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1:52:54
Steffen Dobke | Analogue Automotive - Elise S1 Based Builds
Steffen Dobke is the founder of Analogue Automotive, a company that restores and reimagines the Lotus Series 1 Elise. Steffen shares his journey, the philosophy behind Analogue Automotive, and what makes their builds stand out in a world full of ultra expensive 911 restomods. Discover the story and ethos that has shaped these builds.
https://analogueautomotive.co.uk/
Enjoy.
Show Notes:
00:00 The Journey of Customisation in Automotive
03:09 Passion for Performance Cars
06:05 The Art of Suspension Tuning
08:48 Real-World Testing vs. Track Testing
11:59 Building the Ultimate Elise
15:09 The Evolution of Customer Expectations
17:59 Modernising Classic Designs
20:53 The Impact of Technology on Driving Experience
23:46 Understanding Customer Needs and Preferences
28:35 Building the Ultimate Car: Budget and Expectations
30:01 Restoration Costs: The Importance of Quality Donor Cars
31:56 High Standards in Restoration: The Art of Finishing
33:11 Innovations in Carbon Fibre: Aesthetic and Functional Enhancements
35:45 Subtlety vs. Boldness: Customisation Choices for Clients
37:51 The Creative Journey: Building Unique Cars for Clients
39:06 Modernising Classic Cars: Technology and Reliability
41:27 Suspension and Performance: Enhancing Driving Dynamics
44:12 Engine Modifications: Power and Reliability in Classic Cars
46:34 Driving Experience: The Thrill of Performance Cars
49:23 Navigating Regulations: Modifying Cars for Different Markets
51:04 Interior Design: Balancing Comfort and Performance
54:32 Sound and Experience: The Essence of Driving a Sports Car
55:09 The Analog Driving Experience
59:07 Custom Car Modifications and Engineering Challenges
01:01:39 Unique Projects and Client Relationships
01:04:10 The Evolution of Lotus Cars
01:07:43 Memorable Driving Experiences and Favourite Cars
01:10:41 Resto Mod Trends in the Automotive Industry
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1:25:16
Joey Seely | E Motion Engineering
Joey Seely, founder of E-Motion Engineering, joins the Car Chat Podcast to discuss his journey from motorsport mechanic to running one of the premier automotive tuning and suspension setup companies. Joey shares his expertise on vehicle dynamics, suspension tuning, his motorsport adventures, and what it takes to make a car truly handle. A deep dive for enthusiasts who appreciate the art and science of automotive engineering.
Enjoy.
https://emotionengineering.co
Show Notes:
00:00 The Art of Porsche Engineering
03:02 Joey Seely's Journey in Racing
05:57 Evolution of Porsche Race Cars
09:02 Challenges of Racing at Pike's Peak
12:03 Memorable Racing Experiences
15:03 The Development of Race Cars
17:56 Chassis Engineering Insights
21:07 Building Cars the Right Way
23:59 Adjustability in Car Tuning
26:48 The Role of Professional Drivers
38:27 The Importance of Quality in Car Parts
41:02 Tailoring Performance for Street and Track
44:11 Understanding Suspension Dynamics
49:07 Optimising Tire Performance
52:32 The Role of Compliance in Suspension
56:06 Building a Reputation in the Car Community
01:00:49 Collaborations and Notable Projects
01:04:06 Comparing Race Cars and Street Cars
01:08:02 The Art of Tailored Car Setup
01:14:29 The Power of Word of Mouth Marketing
01:16:13 The Joy of Driving and Car Enthusiasm
01:18:19 Maintenance of Classic Cars
01:20:42 The Allure of Vintage Porsches
01:22:02 Personal Hot Rods and Racing Experiences
01:26:39 Building Custom Cars: A Passion Project
01:30:26 Future Projects and Innovations in Car Building
01:35:16 Memorable Driving Experiences
01:39:02 The Ideal Sports Car
01:43:22 Undervalued Cars in the Market
01:46:45 The Future of Automotive Technology
01:48:46 The Ultimate Five-Car Garage
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2:04:06
Masa Kuji | Built By Legends
In this episode, I'm joined by Masa Kuji, co-founder of Built By Legends, the renowned Japanese restomod company that brings iconic cars like the Skyline GT-R and classic Honda Civics into the modern age. Masa shares the fascinating journey from producing English-dubbed versions of legendary Japanese car films like Best Motoring and Hot Version to creating bespoke, high-quality restorations with legendary Japanese tuning houses Mines and Spoon Sports. We dive into the meticulous details involved in transforming classic GT-Rs and Civics into reliable, exciting daily drivers that retain their authentic character while incorporating cutting-edge technology and performance enhancements. Masa offers insights into the unique challenges of restoring and improving beloved icons, the evolving market for these collectible cars, and the passion driving the Built By Legends ethos.
https://builtbylegends.jp/en/
Enjoy
Show Notes
00:00 The Evolution of the GTR Series
02:51 Journey into the Car Industry
06:00 Building Built by Legends
08:54 The Ethos Behind Restomodding
11:59 Collaborations with Legendary Tuners
14:51 Performance and Reinforcement of GTRs
18:02 The First Built by Legends GTR
20:57 Popularity and Market Trends of GTRs
24:00 Production Capacity and Restoration Services
26:45 Improving Original Designs
30:09 Customer Customization and Specifications
35:45 Driving Experience of Custom Cars
41:53 Customer Relationships and Build Process
49:08 Cost and Value of Builds
55:30 Restoration Process and Customization
01:00:57 Future of Car Builds and Personal Favorites
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1:09:53
Jonny Hart | Classic Retrofit
Jonny Hart, founder of Classic Retrofit, joins the podcast to talk about modernising classic cars while preserving their charm. With a background in aerospace and electronics, Jonny has developed innovative plug-and-play solutions that improve reliability, from fuse panels to full climate control systems. We discuss the challenges of integrating modern tech into old-school vehicles, working with restomod pioneers like Singer, and the future of automotive electronics.
Enjoy.
https://www.classicretrofit.com
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The Car Chat Podcast features regular interviews with familiar and interesting faces from the automotive world. Hosted by Sam Moores (@sammooresphoto). Video podcasts now over on the Car Chat Podcast youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCW2AKE9BDG5e7fvpkj7E4kg