Sports Photography

There are many sports we play professionally, as amateurs, and just for fun. Many people participate in sports activities specifically for keeping themselves in shape; this would probably fall into the category of fun.

Whatever the reasons why some play sports, there are some of us who like to tag along to get some action shots. Whether for practice or a local paper or for printing.

Photography - Educate Yourself.

Are you interested in sports photography? Where do you start? Check out a local college or technical college, see what types of classes they offer for photography programs. There you may find programs for Photojournalism or General Photography Courses.

Maybe you know someone who is involved in some kind of sports photography whether professional or amateur who will mentor you.

Do you already have skills and want to take the next step? If you have school-age children that play sports or - even if you don't - ask a local newspaper if you can take pictures of the games.

The best way to learn the subject of your interest in to delve right in and commit yourself to practice and study.

You can practice by going to one of your kids sports games and taking pictures or maybe a public event where cameras are allowed.

If you have the drive and ambition, talent and knowledge, and you're willing to practice and work hard to improve your skills, you have already accomplished part of the task at hand.

When you're ready - build yourself a great portfolio. Don't skimp in this area, it's important to show off your best work.

If you don't know how to do this, take a class or hire a professional to help you out.

Sports Photography Tips.

Here are just a few tips to keep in mind:

• When you've found a good place to shot - be prepared.
• Situate yourself in a good place (out of harms way).
• Use your vision of what the shot will look like.
• Focus on a spot prior to the action actually happening.
• Pay attention because timing can make or break the shot your after.

You may think pre-focusing? It works. Say I'm standing mid point in a trail just outside the tree line and I know a dirt bike will shortly be breaking through that tree line.

I know the size of the bike and where I want the actual picture to be taken. I'll pre-focus on that spot and fire away when ready.

It takes some practice so hang in there.

Enjoy Being the Photographer.

The freedom you have as photographer are numerous.

• You can be creative to try different angles and settings.
• You can enter contests and hope to win a prize-winning photo.
• You have a variety of subjects to choose from.
• You can travel to sports tournaments.
• Freedom of self-employment.

My husband is an amateur dirt bike racer. We don't travel too far but while he's out on the track, I walk the track getting a variety of pictures.

I enjoy this especially when there's mud on the track or back in the woods. I get those pictures of someone going down in the mud, going through the mud and capturing the art the muddy water has created as they are riding through it.

So - have fun with your sports photography and enjoy yourself.