Back then, photographers had the freedom to wander in and out of garages, talk to anyone, and generally move around as long as we respected the space. So I stepped right in, introduced myself as a UPI photographer, and asked Petty if he’d mind if I got on the floor to make a few photos of him under the car. His reply was simple:“Knock yourself out.”

If you’re a motorsports fan with an appreciation for vintage style, then you’ll want to check out this gem from the shop BCPixPhotos on Etsy: the 2026 IMSA GTP Racing Calendar

When covering event for media outlets like these you were pretty much at the mercy of your employer as far as what film you were shooting to