Hi, my name is Hugh O’Brien and I’m 11 years old. I’m a rally photographer from Ireland and I have loved rallies since I was really, really small. Ever since I can remember, I’ve been standing on ditches at stages watching the cars fly past. The noise, the speed and the smell of petrol are just amazing!
I still video the rally cars on my phone and even interviewed the drivers. I thought that was the coolest thing ever. But then I discovered photography and everything changed. Now instead of just watching the action, I get to capture it.
I love taking photos of rally cars going flat out through muddy corners, sliding around tight bends and spraying gravel everywhere. My favourite shots are the really close-up ones where you can see the dirt flying and the concentration on the driver’s face. I think that’s what makes my photos stand out they feel close, loud and full of energy, like you’re right there beside the stage.
Hugh pictured above with M-Sport WRC driver Josh McErlean
Hugh pictured above with Richard Millener Team Principal of M-Sport Word Rally Team
My first proper rally with my camera was the Galway Rally 2026. I was so excited and a little bit nervous too. But once the first car came through, I just focused and started shooting. I got some great photos that day and I knew this is what I want to keep doing.
Photography lets me mix my two favourite things motorsport and being creative. I’m always trying to learn new tricks, like better angles, faster settings and cooler edits. Every rally I go to, I try to improve and make my photos even better than the last time.
I absolutely love what I’m doing right now, and I can’t wait to keep going to more rallies and sharing my photos with everyone.
Hugh pictured above with M-Sport WRC driver Jon Armstrong
Hugh pictured above at the 2026 Birr Stages Rally with Shane Quinn, Shane competes in both the Irish Tarmac Rally Championship & the Irish National Rally Championship, Shane finished a fine 2nd overall on the 2026 Birr Stages Rally where he was not to far off the winning time of Josh Moffett
My first proper rally with my camera was the Galway Rally 2026. I was so excited and a little bit nervous too. But once the first car came through, I just focused and started shooting. I got some great photos that day and I knew this is what I want to keep doing.
Photography lets me mix my two favourite things motorsport and being creative. I’m always trying to learn new tricks, like better angles, faster settings and cooler edits. Every rally I go to, I try to improve and make my photos even better than the last time.
I absolutely love what I’m doing right now, and I can’t wait to keep going to more rallies and sharing my photos with everyone.
