Formula 1 big picture is a feature designed to showcase a side of the sport that television cannot always portray.

Over the last 20 years, Darren Heath has carved a reputation as one of F1's most original photographers.

This is Darren's story behind his latest image:

"Tongue stabbed sharply skywards, Fernando Alonso seems unperturbed at the firestorm his German Grand Prix victory has ignited.

"Gifted a win by his ever compliant Brazilian team-mate the Spaniard stands at the top of the podium 25 points better off.

"Come lap 49 on Sunday afternoon, there really was only one story in town.

"The challenge for photographers covering the event to somehow get 'the' shot that tells 'the' story.

"During a grand prix, one generally shoots the start and opening laps from the same vantage point, judging when to leave for another location as and when the race settles into a rhythm.

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"During the walk between corners it is easy to miss the track action and as a result become a little unsure as to the drivers' positions relative to each other.

"Of course the ideal scenario at Hockenheim would have been a shot of the pass as it happened but, failing that, an image of a telling facial expression will do.

"When Alonso pulled this cheeky grin, seemingly giving away his inner thoughts, it was just the moment I had hoped for.

"The press can hound him as much as they like, Alonso will go on denying any intra-team collusion because Ferrari's numero uno doesn't care - he's back in the hunt, team on his side with his team-mate in his pocket.

"As is so often the case in life - and certainly on the German podium - actions speak louder than words."

Camera: Canon EOS1DS Mark3; Lens: 600mm; Exposure: 2000th sec @ f/4.5

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