Starting Out in Sports Photography: What You Need to Know.

Introduction

Sports photography is a challenging and rewarding field that requires a combination of technical skill and creativity. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced photographer, capturing stunning action shots can be a daunting task. However, with the right equipment, camera settings, and editing techniques, anyone can improve their sports photography skills. In this guide, I will walk you through the basics of sports photography and provide tips and tricks to help you get started.

Equipment

1. Camera: The most important piece of equipment for sports photography is a camera that can shoot at high speeds and has good autofocus. DSLR and mirrorless cameras are the most popular choices among sports photographers, but a high-end point and shoot camera can also work.

2. Lens: A fast lens with a wide aperture (f/2.8 or lower) is essential for sports photography as it allows more light to enter the camera and provides a shallow depth of field. A zoom lens is also recommended for sports photography as it allows you to capture different angles and perspectives.

3. Tripod or monopod: A tripod or monopod is not essential for sports photography, but it can be useful for capturing stills and panning shots, or allow for you to rest your camera during long days of an event.

4. Memory Card: A fast memory card with a large capacity is essential for sports photography as it allows you to take many photos in succession without having to stop and change cards.

Camera Settings

1. Shutter speed: A fast shutter speed (1/1000s or higher) is essential for freezing action and avoiding motion blur.

2. Aperture: A wide aperture (f/2.8 or lower) is essential for sports photography as it allows more light to enter the camera and provides a shallow depth of field.

3. ISO: A low ISO (100 or lower) is recommended for sports photography as it results in less noise and better image quality.

4. Autofocus: A camera with good autofocus is essential for sports photography as it allows you to track and capture fast-moving subjects. Many cameras have a continuous autofocus mode which is ideal for sports photography.

Capturing Action Shots

1. Anticipate the action: One of the key elements of capturing great action shots is anticipating the action. By watching the game or event, you can predict where the action will happen and be ready to press the shutter button.

2. Panning: Panning is a technique where you follow the subject with your camera as it moves across the frame. This creates a sense of motion and can be a great way to capture action shots.

3. Use burst mode: Burst mode allows you to take multiple photos in rapid succession by holding down the shutter button. This is a great way to capture a sequence of action shots.

Editing and Post-Processing

1. Basic editing: Basic editing is essential for sports photography. This includes adjusting the exposure, white balance, and cropping the image.

2. Noise reduction: Noise reduction is a technique used to remove the grainy effect that can occur in high ISO images.

3. Colour correction: Colour correction is the process of adjusting the colours in an image to make them more accurate or pleasing to the eye.

4. Sharpening: Sharpening is the process of making an image appear more crisp and clear.

Conclusion

Sports photography is a challenging and rewarding field that requires a combination of technical skill and creativity. With the right equipment, camera settings, and editing techniques, anyone can improve their sports photography skills. Remember to practice and experiment with different techniques to find what works best for you. With time and patience, you'll be able to capture stunning action shots that will make your sports photography stand out.

In next weeks blog, I will run through what exact equipment you can purchase to get started with sports photography. Be sure to SUBSCRIBE, so that you do not miss an article.