Formula 1 | One Shots

Through Her Eyes | Lewis Hamilton

Author's Note: This story was requested by reader: ava379 

Done in 3rd person POV
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Astrid's hands were shaking as she slung her camera over her shoulder, getting herself ready for her first day in the F1 paddock. For as long as she could remember, she had been glued to screens, admiring the beauty of the cars on track, each race telling a different story. Now, she was standing in the middle of it all. A part of it.

But no matter how thrilling, the reality was scary. She wasn't just a fan today, she was the newest paddock photographer. The retirement of one of the sport's most celebrated photographers had left a spot that Astrid was expected to fill, and she knew people would be watching her every move, comparing her to her predecessor.

"Alright, Astrid, just breathe," she whispered to herself as she adjusted her camera lens. Her heart pounded as she spotted Red Bull's garage across the pit lane. Mechanics were busy adjusting parts and Max Verstappen, his iconic helmet in hand, was chatting with one of the team members.

"Let's start here," she whispered, crouching down to capture the moment, focusing on Max as he tossed his helmet between his hands, deep in thought. As she snapped, someone's shadow cast over her, and she looked up to see a man with a friendly face and bright eyes.

"Hey there, new face in the paddock?" The man grinned, folding his arms as he observed her camera setup.

"Yeah, I am. Astrid," she said, standing up and moving the hair away from her face.

"Daniel Ricciardo," he introduced, holding out his hand. She felt her cheeks flush, trying not to show her excitement as she shook his hand. "So, you're the new hotshot photographer, huh? Big shoes to fill."

"That's one way to put it," she said with a nervous laugh. "I feel like everyone's going to be judging every shot I take."

Daniel raised an eyebrow and gave her an encouraging smile. "You'll do great. It's all about capturing the vibe here. And trust me, there's a lot of it."

Just as she was about to respond, Lando Norris, dressed in his McLaren gear, came over, eyes full of mischief as he looked between Astrid and Daniel. "Daniel, flirting with the new photographer already?"

"Lando, mate, don't embarrass me in front of her!" Daniel laughed, giving Lando a shove. "Astrid, ignore him...he's just jealous he didn't introduce himself first."

Astrid laughed, already feeling the tension ease a little as she watched their banter. "Nice to meet you, Lando. I'm Astrid. And don't worry, I'll try to capture your good side."

"Oh, I don't have a bad side," Lando grinned, striking a ridiculous pose before he turned serious. "But really, welcome. If you need any help around here, we're all one big dysfunctional family."

As Lando and Daniel wandered off to prepare for their practice runs, Astrid moved through the paddock, taking in as many moments as she could...the focus of the mechanics, the excitement of the fans yelling through the gates and the drivers as they prepped for their drives.

She was focusing her lens on Carlos Sainz, who was leaning against his Ferrari, helmet by his side, looking like he was in a daze. The lighting was perfect, and she was about to take the shot when she heard a voice from behind.

"Are you new here?" She turned to find Charles Leclerc, a polite but curious expression on his face.

"Yes. Well, new to the whole paddock," she replied, laughing slightly as she extended her hand. "I'm Astrid, the new photographer."