I had a unique opportunity to photograph a Steeple race at the 108th Carlton College high school track & field event this past Saturday. In hind-sight, I think I should have shot these directly facing the hurdle, more into the sunlight. I thought the spectators would be a good, dark backdrop for the splashing water. But I'm not happy with the results. Open to suggestions. Thanks.

KWEP
_____
Canon 30D
70-200 2.8L IS

That is a cool subject!

I think I understand why you're not happy. It looks like you're trying to get too much in these photos and they just end up being busy. I have definitely had that problem with mountain bike races. Sometimes the best solution is shallower depth-of-field to focus to soften the background but still allow you to keep it in the frame. I also really wish the first one included the whole girl in the front. I want to see her feet in the water! She should be the main subject, but again, you've tried to include too much and cropped her.

Shooting from the front would have been good. I try to move around when I'm shooting mountain biking. I find that when I work one location too hard I regret it later. Variety helps you learn more and gives a more complete picture of the event after it's over.

Maybe you'll get a chance to shoot steeplechase again? It's certainly a fun subject.