BetterPhoto Q&A
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BetterPhoto Member		Sports Photography I am looking for some tips or tricks on what the best settings would be for using a digital SLR to take sports action shots. Using the built in sports settings doesn't seem to produce the desired results. To love this question, log in above September 18, 2008

Pete H		Danny, Generally good sports photography requires TWO important elements. The first has nothing to do with equipment. Being in the right place at the right time is a key here. Also, understanding the sport is helpful; (i.e) knowing where the action will occur, when it will occur etc... 2) Without going into this lens or that lens; ever watch a NFL football game? Ever notice the lenses these pros are using? They are not using them to show off..They use them because they produce spectacular results. The key element in any really good lens for sports photography is (light gathering power) While the average consumer DSLR tele or zoom lens is in the rage of f/3.5 to f/4 @ 200mm, they are not the BEST choice for serious sports action. The pros are using usually no less than 400mm and often 600mm Tele's..NOT zooms @ f/2.8 or better! The problem in getting such a lens in your stable to most amateurs is cost. Your wallet will beg for mercy. LOL While the consumer type lenses do work, they suffer from insufficient light gathering ability to produce excellent images. Depending on how fast the action is, one is often forced to raise the ISO to achieve higher shutter speeds. This of course leads to a new problem..Noise. If you tell us specifically WHAT you are shooting and what type lens you have, we could probably offer the best possible settings for your situation. all the best, Pete To love this comment, log in above September 18, 2008

W.		Hi Danny, "Using the built in sports settings doesn't seem to produce the desired results." So 1) what DID you get (post examples), and 2) please describe the results you 'desire'? Have fun! To love this comment, log in above September 18, 2008

- Dennis Flanagan Contact Dennis Flanagan Dennis Flanagan's Gallery		Danny, it depends on the speed of the sport. At the very least, shoot in shuuter speed priority. Better yet, shoot in manual. NEVER use the sports mode. To love this comment, log in above September 18, 2008

- Gregory LaGrange Contact Gregory LaGrange Gregory LaGrange's Gallery		Before you get concerned about what you see on tv, keep in mind that they usually have the benefit of day light and nowadays it's auto focus and keep the button down for most of the ones out there. So if you're having trouble at night, then yes, 2.8 lenses are your best friends.(besides having the aperture, they are made better optically. For the price of them, they should be.) If your problems are blurred or too dark, then a faster lens. Other problems like missing a shot, etc..., give some more info like W. Smith asked you to. To love this comment, log in above September 18, 2008

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