Benefits of sports events photography
There are many benefits of sports events photography. Most importantly, it is a great way to preserve memories and share them with family and friends. Capturing the excitement and emotion of sports and athletic events is also a great way to create artwork that can be enjoyed year after year. Sports events photography can also be a great way to meet new people, network, and even make some money if you are a professional or commercial photographer. Sports events photography is also a great way to improve your skills as a photographer and is a challenge that will push you to improve and raise your game. No matter the skill level of the photographer, sports events photography can be a rewarding hobby for anyone.
Proper equipment for sports events photography
The right equipment for sports events photography will depend on which type of events you will be covering. This list is not all-inclusive, but it does offer some recommendations for sports events photography.
A good camera - a DSLR or mirrorless camera with an APS-C sensor is recommended.
A wide aperture lens - f/2.8 or larger is ideal. Fast shutter speed - a shutter speed that can freeze the action is ideal.
A fast ISO setting - ISO 800 or higher is ideal.
External flash - a speedlight or flash is recommended. A full-frame camera is recommended to capture the widest view of the sports events and athletes. A full-frame camera is also preferred for sports events photography because it keeps the field of view the same no matter the distance the camera is away from the action. This makes it easier to keep the action in the frame as you move around and it is especially important for photographing sports events where the action is moving quickly.
Photography skills needed for sports events photography
The photography skills needed for sports events photography are many and varied. At a minimum, you will need a keen eye for the visual elements of sports and the action on the field or court. You will also need the ability to quickly change your position to capture the best angle and composition. You will also need to be able to anticipate the best moments to take the shot, and know when to take it. In addition to having a visual eye, sports events photography also requires the right timing and technique. You will need to know how to use your camera equipment to its full potential. This includes your camera settings, shutter speed, aperture, and ISO. You will also need to be able to use a variety of photography techniques to capture the best images. This includes shooting with a wide-angle lens, zoom lens, panning (for sports like racing), and more.
Preparing for a sports event photoshoot
There are several things to consider and prepare for when you are preparing to photograph a sports event. This starts with choosing the right sports event to photograph. While you can photograph any sport, you should pick one that you enjoy watching, and one that will provide you with the best visual opportunities. The visual elements of the sport will largely determine the best way to photograph the event. For example, if you are photographing a soccer or football game, you should carefully consider where you will be standing and what the best angle is to photograph the action. You should also check the league rules, and follow the rules for photographing the event to ensure you stay safe and can get the shots you want. You should also do some research on the team you will be photographing, or the league if you are covering multiple games. This will help you anticipate the best moments to photograph, and help you get to know the personalities a little better. This can also help you break the ice with the players, coaches, and fans before you start photographing.
Capturing the action in sports events photography
Capturing the action in sports events photography is one of the most challenging aspects of sports events photography. This can be especially challenging if you photograph a niche event or an event with a slower pace of play. Although there is no real way to speed up the action in an event, there are several ways to capture the best moments.
Shooting from different angles - get close to the field or court, but also shoot from above if you are permitted. Shooting from above helps capture the entire court or field, but make sure you get the right action in the frame.
Panning for action - if you are photographing a slower-paced sport, such as baseball, pick a player and pan the camera with them as they move toward you and away from you. This will help create a sense of motion in the frame, and freeze the player just as they are in the best moment.
