What I Learned About Sports Photography

I photographed a basketball game at St. Mary's College of Maryland for a Sports Photography Competition and learned some interesting things from my experience.  I realized very quickly that even with bright lights pointing down from the ceiling, photographing a fast game in a fairly dark room is challenging.  I really really wanted a f1.4 lens to get extra light for good photos, but my bank account didn't support it.  I had to be really quick to get good photos.  The pro I met used 4 flashes triggered by his camera that were temporarily mounted on the walls and pointed at the ceiling.  He was very nice to me and gave me some pointers.  Based on his advice, I photographed more than just the game.  I included the coaches expressions when their team scored (or didn't score!).  I took photos of the fans jumping up and down.  I caught the players on the benches as they reacted to the game and the cheerleaders had wonderful smiles.  The team had huddles and there was lots of interactions at the beginning and end of the game.

I didn't do well in the competition because the main subjects in my photos didn't face into the frame or the background was too busy.  The expressions on the players faces are very important for a really good sports photo.  I thought the compositions were okay. They were a little soft as well because I needed a brighter lens.  It was a good learning experience.  The 3 photos I competed were all game photos.  I will include a few extras that I didn't compete: players watching on the sidelines and the coach.