There comes a time when you literally have to step up your game to capture those special nail-biting moments from your kids’ athletic games. Your goal (no pun intended) should include producing as many shots as possible of your little one in action. At the same time, don’t forget those little details, because they all contribute to the fun of sportsmanship and the anticipation of a well-deserved WIN!
Here are some pointers for the parents who want to be their kid’s MVP.
- Most likely your child’s game will be in the morning or mid-day. In that case, in the bright sun, set your ISO between 100-200. On cloudy days, bump it up to 400.
- Use a good telephoto lens. For most of the action shots, I use my 70-200. It’s a beast and you’ll need some arm strength, but hey, who doesn’t like some sculpted biceps? Other lenses I use are a 24-70 and of course, my nifty 50!
- Your shutter speed needs to be fast! If your shutter speed is too slow, you’re guaranteed to get blurry photos. Consider ISO 100, f 2.8, 1/6400 sec.
- If you can’t get a fast shutter speed, you might need to raise your ISO.
- I prefer a wide open aperture (f2) so that I can separate my son from the rest of the players. I also love the creamy bokeh. To get the rest of the team in focus, try stopping down the aperture to 4 or 5.6. A great read on aperture: A 5 Minute Crash Course to Learn your DSLR Camera
- I usually shoot in manual mode but because things are moving so quickly, I set my camera to aperture mode and fix any exposure issues in post-processing. No shame in having the camera do some of the work for you. 🙂
- Move! Just like your kid. If they are sweating, you should be too! Just kidding. Really though, get some other perspectives instead of the traditional head on snaps. Get low to the ground, squat down, or try standing on a step stool. Different angles can make photos more dramatic and interesting!
- Don’t forget the coach! We have been blessed with really amazing coaches who go above and beyond for our kids and their teammates. Make your coach’s day and send them a few photos. Thank them for all of their hard work and dedication.
- Be willing to share your photos. Regardless if you are a professional photographer or not, DO share your photos with the rest of the team. Moms, Dads, Grandmas and Grandpas will be so thankful for this!
- Be a good sport! Don’t just cheer for your kid. Parents need to model how to be a team player too! Always stay positive and praise the other team members for their hard work and awesome skills! Parents on the opposite side of the field will appreciate the gestures and will return the acts of kindness for your kiddo as well!
You might find this article helpful as well: 12 Tips on How To Take Action Shots
Guest Blogger: Melinda Snyder of Melinda Snyder Photography
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK
Melinda is a natural light photographer based in Northern Virginia who specializes in weddings and lifestyle portraits. She is a proud momma of two, married to her own officer and a gentleman, appreciates chivalry and southern charm and is a woman blessed by God’s unending grace.Photography is a creative craving for her and capturing the most heart-felt moments sets her soul on fire. Melinda’s work is classic in nature and from a fresh perspective.
Melinda says
Thank you so much for the feature, Rachel! Such an honor to contribute to Sixth Bloom! It was so much fun getting these photos!
Ben O'Neal says
Thanks for the wonderful tips. I love shooting my kids playing soccer and have a few ideas to add. I have found that my 85mm lens is pretty good. You just have to position yourself accordingly and anticipate action as it nears you. Also – as a way to mix up the pictures, sometimes I will stop down and set my shutter speed nice and slow. Then I will pan by following a running player. It’s hit or miss and takes some practice, but can really add the feal of motion if enough of the selected player is in focus with everything else blurred in streaks.
JJ says
Do you have any more information on what lenses are good for what s hot? I loved that you mentioned using a good photo lens, but I know there a lot out there though. What would be best for taking pictures at a distance?