Category: Sports

Same lens, but a different perspective can engage your audience.

by Stanley LearyNikon D4 / Nikon D750 / Sports
 
Nikon D4, AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED, ISO 5600, ƒ/5.6, 1/100

The same lens and a different perspective can change a photo’s impact on an audience.

Nikon D4, AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED, ISO 5000, ƒ/5.6, 1/100

Here is a clue to your photos having more impact. Find a perspective that the audience rarely will see or has access to.

Nikon D750, Sigma 24-105mm f/4 DG OS HSM Art Lens, ISO 400, ƒ/4, 1/100

How often does the audience ever get to see the coin used in the coin toss to start the football game? It is even rare for them to see the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl coin.

Nikon D750, Sigma 24-105mm f/4 DG OS HSM Art Lens, ISO 450, ƒ/4, 1/100

You are probably curious about what is on the other side once you see the coin.

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 9000, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000

Using long glass like this 600mm ƒ/5.6 allows you to help isolate the flute player in the pregame show. Even if you were at the game, you most likely never will see this except if the television captures it and puts it on the jumbotron.

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM S, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1000

I had to share this photo because that is a former player for East Carolina University Pirates, Jeff Blake, and the famous coach Lou Holtz who were both honored as inductees into the College Football Hall of Fame. My alma mater is ECU.

Now many of the other photos I shot from a kneeling position in the end zone. Here are some for you to see.

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1000
Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM S, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1600
Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1250
Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1000
Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000
Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1250
Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM S, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000

These are all from a perspective that, even in the stands, you cannot get to see. So even those in the stands would want to see these later, giving these photos more value.

Now, remember those first two photos in this post. What if I shot the same lens from a different perspective?

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1250
Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000
Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1600
Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1000

You might have seen this perspective if you were at the game and had binoculars. You might have seen this perspective if you were at home watching the game on TV. But many online galleries forget to show this perspective.

Tip

Look for a different perspective and then look for another one, and so on until you have a more well-rounded coverage of the event.

Perspective changes the view of the game.

by Stanley LearyNikon D4 / Sports
 
Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1250

I am in the end zone on my knees to get this photo, shooting down the field with a 600mm lens. I am shooting up to the player’s face.

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1600

What is evident in the comparison is I am no longer on the sideline shooting the game. Instead, I moved to the press box, where many TV cameras covered the game.

The perspective changes how the players appear to the audience. I believe when you are down low and shooting up at the players, you give them the sense they are like the Roman gods, where they tower over men.

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1250

I think shooting from the lower angle is much better most of the time, but there are times that the different perspective helps.

On those close calls, the TV will go to multiple angles to see which one the angles gives a better angle on the play. Having different angles covered is why most major news services have many photographers covering the game. They will have a better chance of having the play covered in case one angle doesn’t show the gameplay or is needed to help the audience understand the call.

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/4.5, 1/1250

This photo is one of those plays from the game where you want to see another angle to verify the touchdown.

When I shot the game from different perspectives, I wanted to capture the branding of Chick-fil-A from different views. While the shooting from down low on the players from the field is a great perspective, I would have missed this photo if I had stayed with that angle only.

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1250

This top-down view is a great scene setter. It tells you this is the Chick-fil-A kickoff game and who is playing.

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1250

I suggest always getting down low when shooting sports as one of your central angles, but always mix in some other angles to help give your audience a different perspective of the game.

Shooting the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game with Nikon D4 and Sigma 120-300mm w/ 2X converter

by Stanley LearyNikon D4 / Sports
 
Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1250

I wanted to share some photos I captured from the Chick-fil-A Kickoff this year, where Auburn defeated Louisville 31 to 24.

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1600

There are a couple of things that helped me get some of what I thought were lovely moments.

Camera Settings:  To see these go to the blog post on them here 

  • Custom White Balance with ExpoDisc
  • AUTO ISO
    • ISO range 100 – 12800 on Nikon D4
    • Minimum Shutter Speed 1/2000 – The shutter will drop below 1/2000 once the ISO maxes out at ISO 12800
  • Continuous High Shutter Release
  • Focus
    • Continuous
    • Focus Point Selection – 21-point dynamic-area AF
    • Focus Tracking with Lock On set to 4
    • AF activation and choose “AF-ON only.” This setting will not focus on the lens when I press the shutter. Instead, it will only fire the camera. 
    • To focus, I am using the AF-ON button on the back of the Nikon D4.
Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000
A few other photographers used to shooting night games at the Georgia Dome were using their teleconverters since this was a daytime game. The arena has a large white sheet over the dome, giving a diffused daylight across the field.
 
Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1000
The lights they use for night games were also on for the game. So my White Balance was 4250º Kelvin and +29 Magenta.
 
Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1600
I enjoy shooting from the end zone as much as possible, so using the Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S with the Sigma TC-2001 2x gave me a 240-600mm ƒ/5.6 lens.
 
It was ultra quick to lock in on focus and track players as they moved across the field.
 
Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1250
In the photos you are seeing, I was tracking the play and would start shooting just about the time, say a pass was to hit their hands, and motor drive through in case anything like a missed catch could happen.
 
Click on the image to see a larger version.
Here is the take on that particular image above. Every one of the images was sharp and usable.
 
Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1000

Before the “Big Game,” shoot the “Small Game.”

 
I recommend going to the community recreation center in your town or local high school, shooting with the same gear, and getting used to it. Then, if you rent a camera or lens, pick it up so maybe you can squeeze in a Friday night game before the “Big Game” on Saturday or Sunday.
 
Missed shots are more related to how well you know your gear than anything else. Be sure you are getting all you can out of the equipment. Please don’t blame the equipment when it might be your knowledge of how to use your gear that is the problem.
 

Football Tips

by Stanley LearyNikon D4 / Sports
Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 7200, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000

Here are a few tips to help you get better football pictures this fall.

First, arrive early and set up your gear for shooting sports. I recommend using the AUTO ISO setting the shutter speed to 1/2000, and having the range of the ISO from the lowest to the highest that your camera recommends.

The Nikon D4 recommends ISO 100 – 12800, and if you need to for a specific situation, you can push this ISO as high as 204800, but anything above 12800, you will notice significant noise levels. But sometimes, that is all you can do on some High School football fields.

I didn’t have the newest Nikon Z9 when I took these photos, but the Z9 native sensitivity of ISO 64-25,600, with expansion to ISO 32-102,400, makes it even easier today to get those moments.

I would also use Custom White Balance using the ExpoDisc. I recommend setting the white balance with your shutter speed below 1/100 to get a more accurate reading. Then select your shutter speed to 1/2000. The Sodium Vapor lights used at many venues have the same problem as fluorescent lights–they are pulsing rather than a constant light source.

Nikon D4: Sports Camera Setting

Nikon D5: Sports Camera Settings

My Nikon Z9 Sports Settings

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 4000, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000

With the cameras all set, you next need to pick a team to feature for the moment. It isn’t easy to cover both teams at the same time. When you choose a group, try to stay in front of the direction they are facing when they line up.

I love to use longer lenses like the 600mm and shoot from an end zone.

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1600

I have captured the Titan’s defense pursuing the quarterback in this photo. So the caption works well for this photo.

St. Pius X Golden Lions #18 QB Reed Egan looks for an open man downfield while Blessed Trinity Titans #74 Matthew Castner and #16 JD Bertrand pursue him Friday night, August 28, 2015, in Roswell, GA.

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 5000, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000

Blessed Trinity Titans #16 JD Bertrand outruns St. Pius X Golden Lions #8 Cameron Fannon for the first touchdown Friday night, August 28, 2015, in Roswell, GA.

I got this break-away play because I was in front of where they were going and not where they had been.

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1250

The other thing about being downfield is the background, for the most part is a lot cleaner than the sidelines.

For this last photo: Blessed Trinity Titans #13 Conor Davis looks for some running room while being pursued by St. Pius X Golden Lions #2 Winston O’Striker Friday night August 28, 2015, in Roswell, GA.

Position yourself where you see the faces of your team rather than the backs of their helmets.

Best Advice for Football

Learn all you can about the game, the team, and the plays they like to run. It would help if you were as prepared as the visiting team coaches are for the game to anticipate the plays so you can be in a position to capture the play as it unfolds. You cannot get consistently good photos from constantly reacting to what is happening. You get great results from anticipating.

One more tip from my friend Billy Calzada, Photo/Multimedia Journalist at San Antonio Express-News, “Do a little homework. My meat and potatoes in football are third down and long passing situations. So, before each game, I find out who the leading receiver is on each team, and on third and long, I anticipate a pass to that player. Also, I Sharpie those players’ numbers on my arm for quick reference.”

Shooting HS Football Look for Competition

by Stanley LearyNikon D4 / Sports
 
Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 4000, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000

Here are four photos from the same play. Which one would you choose to use if you were the editor for a publication?

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 5000, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000

The runner is now further down the field. 

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 4000, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000

I think the first two are better than the last one because you can see the other team is just missing tackles. This photo gives you a sense of competition. 

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 3600, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000

Now, this last photo is the runner scoring. Is this as important as creating the tension of the actual play? You can say in the caption he scored. 

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000

Here the defensive player is reaching for the ball, making you wonder if he will go down. 

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1250

Now, in this photo, you know the guy is going down. So not as much tension. 

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/800

Here this runner is going out of bounds. Not even the team is all that concerned in this photo because there is not much tension. 

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000

The offensive player may get by but watch the sidelines. Now you can’t make this happen, but you can position yourself to get more possibilities. I like to shoot from the endzone to capture more expressions and people running towards the goal, which is where I am. The players look like they are running in the direction of the audience.

Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S shooting Friday Night High School Football

by Stanley LearyNikon D4 / Sports
 
Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 10000, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000

My daughter’s high school had its first football pre-season game tonight. Roswell High School played cross-town rival Johns Creek high school.

In the first photo, Roswell High School’s #1 full back Sheldon Evans runs for a touchdown while being pursued by John’s Creek #3 defensive back Jack Somers and #36 defensive back Bryce McCain.

At 8:03 pm or about 20 minutes before sunset, I took the photo at the top. The Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S with the Sigma TC-2001 2x attached was locking in on focus quickly and holding steady with the Nikon D4.

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 3600, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000

The coach on the sidelines was shot at 7:43 pm with the sun dipping behind trees, so indirect sunlight was hitting the players from the open sky.

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 7200, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000

As you can see, having the Sigma TC-2001 2X converter was helping me reach downfield. The converter gave me a 600mm, which worked well for the high school game. You can get much closer to the sidelines than in college or pro games.

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 6400, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000

Here I am in the end zone, where the player crosses the 50-yard line. Again, I am shooting at 410mm on the zoom range.

I love shooting from the end zones because, as you see in the photos, I am more likely to see the players’ faces. After all, this is the direction the offense is going. If I cover the defense, I would be in the opposite end zone and getting the defensive players’ faces.

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000

You can see the expressions on the faces of the players and show the ball and the defense simultaneously. Here I captured a moment that I am sure the coaches will be talking to the offense about protecting that ball more than they are doing here.

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000

I love these photos where you see the defense doing all they can to stop the offense and also showing the players’ athleticism.

One of the photographers showed up tonight with the new Sigma 150-600mm contemporary lens. I would love to see what she got and even more, which I could have tested. But, I think shooting Friday Night Lights on small community football fields is possible with today’s cameras and high ISOs.

I couldn’t be more pleased with the Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S and Sigma TC-2001 2x combination. I also used the new 1.4X converter but preferred the 2X to get downfield.

Shooting Atlanta Braves Game with Fuji X-E2

by Stanley LearySports
 
Fuji X-E2, FUJINON XF 55-200mm, ISO 4000, ƒ/4.8, 1/2000

As a spectator, I went this past Friday night to see the Cubs vs. Braves at Turner Field in Atlanta, Georgia.

Atlanta Braves rules for cameras

All hand-held cameras that are no longer than 5″ in length are permitted in the ballpark provided they are for personal use only and do not result in obstruction of other fans’ view. Tripods and monopods are prohibited. The taping of game footage and the transmission of any description or reproduction of game activity are prohibited.

The Fujinon XF 55-200mm is less than five inches, so that I could take this into the park.

Fuji X-E2, FUJINON XF 55-200mm, ISO 400, ƒ/4.4, 1/500

There was more reach with the lens than I was using for this photo.

Fuji X-E2, FUJINON XF 55-200mm, ISO 6400, ƒ/5.6, 1/1000

I had the camera on continuous shooting mode for most action shots like this. Here are the instructions from the manual. Double click on the photo to see it larger.

I can tell you that it isn’t as responsive for sports as my Nikon D4 cameras. However, a firmware upgrade is on the horizon, so I can’t wait to see if this addresses the responsiveness.

Fuji X-E2, FUJINON XF 55-200mm, ISO 6400, ƒ/5.6, 1/3000

While I did manage some pleasant moments, I wouldn’t be able to use this camera on assignment. First, I missed many plays because the focus would hunt, and the shutter lag was slow.

Fuji X-E2, FUJINON XF 55-200mm, ISO 6400, ƒ/4.8, 1/3000

Now, if you want to take some photos to remember the game, then the Fuji X-E2 will do a great job. The quality of the images was excellent. Had the camera allowed me to capture the moments intentionally as I can with my Nikons, then I may drop using the Nikons because of the size and weight of the Fuji system.

Fuji X-E2, FUJINON XF 55-200mm, ISO 6400, ƒ/4.8, 1/3000

The Fuji X-E2 with the Fujinon XF 55-200mm is a killer package. Extremely sharp. Since this is a minor chip, the 55-200mm is like shooting with an 84-305mm full-frame camera. The aperture at 200mm is ƒ/4.8 makes this great for many situations.

One more Atlanta Braves rule

Small bags, backpacks or other articles must fit within a space of 16x16x8 inches.

So due to this limitation, I could bring my small ThinkTank bag with the Fuji X-E2, Fujinon XF 518-55mm, and the Fujinon XF 55-200mm. It also had two spare batteries.

The main reason I have the Fuji system is that it is small and lightweight. 

When shooting sports–Shoot Variety to capture Athleticism and Competition

by Stanley LearyNikon D4 / Sports
 
Nikon D4, AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED, ISO 1400, ƒ/11, 1/2000

When covering sports, you want to communicate the athleticism and the competition. Here I went low for a good reason.

When you get below eye level of your subject, you give them power. When you get low as I did here, you start to make the athletes look like the “Roman gods.” We even name many of our sports teams after Greek names like Spartans.

Nikon D4, AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED, ISO 1400, ƒ/11, 1/2000

Now I am standing in the same position, but the camera is at my standing eye level. The thing that makes this photo work is the aspect of “competition.” You can see all the racers tightly packed and looking for an opportunity to move ahead in the pack.

Nikon D4, AF-S NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR, ISO 800, ƒ/6.3, 1/2000

Depending on the caption, this photo of the three riders can make this photo more or less critical. If these were the leaders [first place, second place, and third place], this could be a good photo in the story. However, the guy in the middle’s facial expression doesn’t communicate effort. Instead, he looks like he is enjoying a leisurely Sunday afternoon bike ride.

Nikon D4, Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG APO OS HSM,  ISO 2800, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000

In contrast, the earlier photo of this one is shot a lot tighter to emphasize facial expressions, and I think these riders all look a lot more competitive in their facial expressions.

Tips:

  • Shoot a variety of angles
  • Shoot with a variety of lenses
  • Look for body language to help communicate
  • Look for facial expressions
  • Be sure you show more than one athlete to display competition
Nikon D4, AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED, ISO 100, ƒ/22, 1/50
While this is an excellent shot, it lacks competition.
 
Nikon D4, AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED, ISO 100, ƒ/9, 1/30
See how others you introduce “competition” in the sport included?
 
Nikon D4, AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED, ISO 160, ƒ/14, 1/30
You don’t need a lot of riders to communicate competition; just one more will work.

Photographing Women’s Soccer

by Stanley LearyNikon D4 / Sports
 
Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 1100, ƒ/8, 1/2000

I spent an afternoon shooting a girl’s middle school soccer game. These are just a few of the photos from the shoot.

I shot 1458 images and edited them down to 444 photos; that is what I consider OK.

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 900, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000

Here is a link to all the sports settings I used for the Nikon D4 in the earlier blog Nikon D4: Sports Camera Setting.

Nikon D4 Camera Settings:

  • Auto ISO 100 – 12800
  • Minimum shutter speed setting in Auto ISO 1/2000
  • RAW
  • AF Focus Tracking setting at 4
  • AFC – Continuous-servo Autofocus
  • 21-point dynamic-area AF
  • Focus point center and on lock
  • AF Activation – Auto Focus only: use the back focus button on focusing, and shutter release only controls the shutter
  • Release Mode–Continuous High Speed
Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 1000, ƒ/8, 1/2000
I like to stand in the endzone of the goal that the team I am covering is trying to score.
 
 
Getting on your knees is even better than standing.
 
Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S, Sigma TC-2001 2x, ISO 1100, ƒ/8, 1/2000
The athletes’ level of play will determine how good photos you will get. The better the game, the more opportunities for great action photos will increase.

Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl Highlights

by Stanley LearyNikon D4 / Sports
 
Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM S [600mm], Sigma 2X, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000

These are just photos from my daily coverage of the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl held at the Georgia World Congress Center and the Georgia Dome.

It starts early in the morning, covering the FanZone before the game. FanZone is where fans can have fun at different exhibits.

Nikon D4, 14-24mm, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/250

The fans also see their teams and coach up close during the team walks.

Nikon D4, 14-24mm, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/100

Bowls are not just about the game. Bowls are where fans travel a long way, and the cities that host these significant events do everything they can to welcome them and make them feel like this was a remarkable experience.

It is not just to show something happened; it is essential to show how fans emotionally connect with the city and each other.

 
Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM S [600mm], Sigma 2X, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/800

One of the most challenging things to cover for a sports photographer is a blowout, or maybe even just a low-scoring game comes close.

Why is this so hard? First, the offense looks like they are the only ones on the field. The defense isn’t up on the offense, giving pressure, which shows competition and creates excitement with the photos.

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM S [600mm], Sigma 2X, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1000

I shot ten excellent photos before the defense caught up with the offense in this play. TCU’s wide receiver #7, Kolby Listenbee, was wide open and had a lot of room between him and Ole Miss before they finally stopped him.

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM S [600mm], Sigma 2X, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1600

After editing some 2000+ images from the day, I can tell that TCU’s defense was always moving toward the ball, as you can see in their pursuit of Ole Miss’ quarterback here. Compare this to the Ole Miss player watching the play in the photo below.

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM S [600mm], Sigma 2X, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1600

I took the time to move around to the press box to get the different angles of the game and halftime.

Nikon D4, Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG APO OS HSM, ISO 4000, ƒ/2.8, 1/2000

Capturing the branding of the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl helped to quickly distinguish this photo from a typical game and other games.

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM S [550mm], Sigma 2X, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1250

The one thing I like about the game is the logo is on the uniforms, so even when you shoot a tight photo, you capture the Bowl Game distinction.

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM S [360mm], Sigma 2X, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/500

On paper, I thought this would be one of the better and closer games that the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl has held. Last year’s matchup between Duke and Texas A&M, to me, on paper, was going to be the blowout. That game was the 4th best-rated game for the entire season.

Ole Miss Rebels’ defense was ranked first in the nation, with its average of only 13.8 points allowed. The TCU Horned Frogs fielded the nation’s most improved offense in total yards and scoring this season and set new school records for points, passing yards, and total offense. How could this not be a great game?

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM S [600mm], Sigma 2X, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/800

The Horned Frogs delivered one of the most telling statements of the 2014 bowl season by demolishing No. 9 Ole Miss 42-3 in the Georgia Dome. They did it against one of the most formidable defenses in the country, and they silenced critics who questioned TCU’s spot among college football’s premier programs.

Technical

I have been using the Sigma 1.4X and 2X converters.

I do know that not using this will render even sharper photos. Sigma has new converters, but they have yet to make it to the camera distributors. I hope to upgrade my converter and possibly get better results.

The new version only works on a couple of lenses and is specifically designed for the Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM S. Stay tuned for when I finally have one and can test this.

Covering Football: Action, Reaction and more

by Stanley LearyNikon D4 / Sports
 
Nikon D4,  Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM, Sigma 2x EX DG APO Autofocus Teleconverter, ISO 28735, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000

ACTION!

The most apparent photos from a football game are the action during the game. If you only shoot this, you will miss much of what the game is all about.

Nikon D4,  Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM, Sigma 2x EX DG APO Autofocus Teleconverter, ISO 51200, ƒ/5.6, 1/1600

REACTION

The fans care about the game and the outcome. Look for photos in the stands. The fans’ reaction is just as compelling as the action on the field.

Nikon D4,  Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM, Sigma 2x EX DG APO Autofocus Teleconverter, ISO 25600, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000

Go back and shoot more action. It is best to get the big plays. You can turn the camera away from the field during the time between plays.

 
Nikon D4,  Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM, Sigma 2x EX DG APO Autofocus Teleconverter, ISO 25600, ƒ/5.6, 1/800
A lot happens in those stands. So keep your ears tuned in around you as well as your eyes.
 
Nikon D4,  Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM, ISO 25600, ƒ/5.6, 1/1000
After central touchdowns, many school cheerleaders have traditions of celebrating on the sideline or, like here, in the endzone.
 
Nikon D4,  Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM, Sigma 2x EX DG APO Autofocus Teleconverter, ISO 25600, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000
After big plays like this one, you will find fans reacting. Sometimes you will see coaches on the sidelines interacting with the referees.
 
Nikon D4,  Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM, Sigma 2x EX DG APO Autofocus Teleconverter, ISO 28735, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000
The idea is if you are at a game, it is a big event with many people doing different things and roles.
 
Nikon D4,  Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM, Sigma 2x EX DG APO Autofocus Teleconverter, ISO 18102, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000
Bands perform before the game, during the game, and at halftime. College bands are a college course, and the games are concerts for them.
 
Nikon D4,  Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM, Sigma 2x EX DG APO Autofocus Teleconverter, ISO 10000, ƒ/5.6, 1/2000
Not so obvious
 
Nikon D4,  Nikon 14-24mm ƒ/2.8, ISO 560, ƒ/5.6, 1/100
I take photos of people I work with on the sidelines during games. I try and then send them a copy of the picture. Taking and giving snapshots to volunteers helps to build relationships so that the next round when I need some help with access, these friends are now seeing me as someone they want to help.
 
Look for different angles.
 
Nikon D4,  Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM, Sigma 2x EX DG APO Autofocus Teleconverter, ISO 25600, ƒ/5.6, 1/1600
I like to go up into or onto press boxes to get a different perspective of the game. Don’t shoot all the action from the same position the entire game. Don’t move around so much that you are missing the action.
 
Nikon D4,  Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM, Sigma 2x EX DG APO Autofocus Teleconverter, ISO 25600, ƒ/5.6, 1/800
Hopefully, you will have editors cheering with your coverage. The key is to give them variety; hopefully, these tips will have you looking for different photos at your next football game.
 
Nikon D4,  Nikon 14-24mm ƒ/2.8, ISO 4000, ƒ/9, 1/200
Don’t leave early
 

Stay shooting after the game. There are still photos to be taken.

Nikon D4,  Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG APO OS HSM, ISO 800, ƒ/5.6, 1/100

Photography Tips for Covering Football

by Stanley LearyNikon D2X / Nikon D3s / Nikon D4 / Sports
 
Nikon D2X, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8, ISO 400, ƒ/2.8, 1/1250

Action Shots

This blog post is about the action on the field and not reactions to that action.

Three things I think you should strive to have in all your action shots on the field:

  1. The Ball
  2. Expression
  3. The competition
While not every great sports photo will have all three, the overwhelming majority of them will have all three elements.
 
 

Definition of Sport—an activity involving physical exertion and skill in which an individual or team competes against another or others for entertainment.

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1000

I like capturing the expressions of football players. An expression shows the “physical exertion” of players. So the key is to put me in a place where I will see their faces more often.

 
Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1000

When possible, I recommend covering one team. this way, you can show their team’s faces on offense and defense without running up and down the field over and over to get in front of them.

I generally try to shoot way down the field in front of the teams and prefer standing in the end zones. If they are far away, I use longer glass, like a 600mm lens, and when they are on the goal line, I may switch to my 70-200mm lens.

Why the endzone? Well, they are generally running in that direction and trying to cross the goal line. So when you are on the sideline, they may run slightly in your path, but they could also be running to the other sideline.

Nikon D4, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/1250

While my knees get sore from kneeling most of the time, I think you get better “athletic” moments. When you are low, you make the football players look much higher off the ground when they jump than when you stand. We like our star running backs to look like Roman gods flying when necessary. Remember, the purpose of the sport is entertainment. Flying because I am down low is a lot more exciting than from above, where they look closer to the ground.

Nikon D3S, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 with 1.4 converters, ISO 6400, ƒ/4, 1/2000

Some of the best defense shots of the game are behind the line of scrimmage. Behind the offense, you capture the sacking of the quarterback. You can also catch the running back. You see, the defense moves the ball forward for their team when they create a loss for the other team’s offense.

I recommend renting long glass lenses rather than buying them. It would help if you had a lens between 300mm to 500mm to cover football, and adding 1.4 & 2X converters get you the longer lens.

Here is the list of gear I use in football

  • (2) Nikon D4 Cameras
  • 14-24mm ƒ/2.8 Nikkor
  • 28-300mm ƒ/3.5-5.6 Nikkor
  • Sigma 70-200mm ƒ/2.8
  • 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 DG OS HSM | S carried in the Thinktank Glass Taxi™ [not in photo]
  • Sigma 1.4 converter
  • Nikon SB-900
  • Manfrotto 294 Aluminum 4 Section Monopod
  • Manfrotto by Bogen Imaging 323 RC2 System Quick Release Adapter w/200PL-14
  • ExpoDisc
  • Shure FP15/83 Lavalier Wireless System
  • RØDE VideoMic Pro
  • Zacuto Z-Finder
  • AWP Knee Pads – Important to save your knees
  • ThinkTank System for lenses using belt and harness
  • ThinkTank Memory Card Holder
  • ThinkTank Airport Security™ V 2.0 Rolling Camera Bag
  • ThinkTank Credential Holder Tall V2.0
Nikon D3S, Sigma 120-300mm ƒ/2.8 with 1.4 converters, ISO 6400, ƒ/4, 1/2000

One last advantage of shooting from the end zones—is BACKGROUNDS. Your background is easier to keep clean and improve impact.

Have fun shooting this fall.