I photographed the new O'NEAL motocross collection in Spain. We only had a week with the team riders. It was very warm and windy; thus, the riders could not ride continuously. Every shot had to be perfect. After a few days in Spain’s blazing sun I started to look for new perspectives. I tested unusual lenses and positions for myself. This was when I discovered a plane with a contrail in the sky. That was perfect.
I didn't have much time. I pointed to the plane and shouted: "Look at that! I want that on my picture!"
Rayco started the machine and I went into position. There was no time for a tripod. I could only approximate to Rayco's trajectory. I positioned the contrail in the viewfinder where I suspected Rayco to be. I set the focus point on the ramp and my only thought at that moment was: "Hopefully, 11 is sufficient... Hopefully, 11 is sufficient…"
After having seen the picture in the preview, I was more than happy. Now only the sharpness had to be right. We took a few more photos, but not a single one was as good as the first one. After the contrail had vanished, I went to my computer to take a closer look at the picture. 11 was sufficient.
Artem Yamshchikov

About the shot

Biography
At the age of 19 I bought my first camera from my first salary. My passion for skateboarding led me to take my first action shots. They looked terrible.
Over time I learned more and more about the technical and artistic aspects of photography.
I extended my equipment by a few cheap lenses and built my first flash system out of old analog flashes and the cheapest radio system.
Then it really started...
My next contact point was a private school of photography. I learned how to handle real flash systems and sinfully expensive cameras. I was even allowed to borrow a Hasselblad for the weekend to take some skate photos. This was my highlight at that time.
After graduating, I studied visual communications. The art of photography, especially sports photography, has been accompanying me from the first camera until today.
I work full time for O'NEAL. Due to my job, I have the possibility to turn my biggest hobby into my profession.
I have the world's best athletes in front of my lens and the opportunity to do every day what I've been dreaming of all my life.