Action Photography
Action photography is all about timing. It is about being in the right place at the right time – ready to capture the moment. Our lives are full of action. Here are some tips as to how to capture your special moments in action.
Be ready to shoot the picture.
- Make sure you have your camera with enough batteries and film.
- Find a good location to take your pictures. The closer you can get to the action, the better the action shot.
- Take into account the position of the sun if you are capturing an outdoor event. Try to position the sun over one of your shoulders.
- Position yourself so that the subject is moving directly towards or away from the view finder – it is easy to capture the action with this view.
- Aim your camera in the general area there the action is likely to occur. Always have your finger over the shutter button – ready for the perfect shot.
- Prefocus your picture on a certain spot where the subject is moving. By the time your subject gets there – you will already have your shot framed and in focus.
- A tripod will help to hold your camera as steady as possible. If this is not available – stand with your feet about shoulder width apart and your elbows press gently against your rib cage.
- Click the shutter a split second before the precise moment you want to capture. The subject will move into the shot.
- You need to compensate for shutter lag – the amount of time your camera takes to capture the picture on film.
Take lots of pictures.
- Action shots are very difficult to shoot. Timing is very critical. It takes about 10 shots to get 1 good shot.
Pan your camera.
- Follow the subject with your camera. Press the shutter while the subject is moving. Continue to move with the subject after taking the picture. The subject will be in focus but the background will be blurred. This is a wonderful effect.
Taking action shot can be very challenging. The quality of your photographs will improve when following the above tips.
