I love taking pictures of my kids and their friends. Although I’m a complete amateur, I’m always trying to learn how to take better pictures as well as taking advantage of editing software to perfect them.
Here’s some of my (very basic!) tips…
Invest in a good camera
Although an iPhone can take wonderful still shots, nothing compares to a DSLR camera with a zoom lens for sports pictures. Mine was a hand me down from my dad, but there are all sorts of places to purchase quality used cameras and lenses if you don’t have the budget for a new one. It’s a pain to lug around, but the quality of the pictures is worth it.
Get close
I have ten million pictures of little soccer girls on a big soccer field where I have no clue what is going happening. A few pictures of the overall action are great, but zooming in on the kids’ faces really tells the story. This is also something that can be done in the editing process.
Use a Fast Shutter Speed
I’m sure this probably isn’t what it’s called, but look for the action setting on your camera. Mine looks like a guy running. This increases the shutter speed of your camera and allows you to capture focused pictures within all the action. If you don’t have a DSLR, anticipate where the action is going to be and allow for the shutter delay by clicking before the action happens.
Take a Million Shots
OK, maybe that’s exaggerating a little bit, but you need to take a bunch of shots to get a few great ones. I’m always surprised the pictures I see when I download! You can capture moments that you didn’t even realize you saw…
Tell the Story
Don’t forget to take pictures other than on the field. These are the things that your kids will want to remember forever.
Use Photo Editing Software
A good picture can become great by using photo editing software. I have used Photoshop Elements (the small version of the mighty and expensive Photoshop) for years but I’ve also started to use PicMonkey because it’s simple, online and free. Taking a few extra minutes to crop and color your photo can make all the difference. Please just make sure you save the original version of your photo as well as the edited one…just in case something goes wrong.
Here’s some further reading from people who know a whole lot more than I do. I’m going to try and improve my skills as well.
8 Tips on How to Photograph Sports
Catch that Shot! 10 Tips for Weekend Warrior Sports Photographers