OT: Show off your sports photography...

[frikativ54]

For the past couple of weeks, I have been having fun with sports photography. While my pics haven't always been the best, it really provides another way to enjoy sports besides playing or being merely a spectator.

Have you gotten an incredible shot? A series of photographs that make you really proud or that show off your subject(s) nicely? Whatever your sports photography passion is, I would love to see the fruits of your labor.

Show off your best sports-related photography.

[LastingsMilledge85]

This is my favorite and IMO my best.

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/Milledge85/2009-07-20076.jpg?t=1265683692

[yankees.stub]

(how do you reduce the size?... Try to load up my best picture but it is too large?)

[LastingsMilledge85]

photobucket

[yankees.stub]

photobucket


it is three pictures combine into one ... having one of my friend work on the pictures.


it looks nice as a screen saver ....

[harpt]

Here is Ripken at Tiger stadium in 1997. I just like that i was so close to him. It was a neat day.

[both-teams-played-hard]

http://i50.tinypic.com/2ibcjfb.jpg
1991 Terry Catledge, Orlando Magic
I took this photo at the Orlando Arena in Orlando. I printed it in a darkroom...Old School!

[harpt]

Here is Ripken at Tiger stadium in 1997. I just like that i was so close to him. It was a neat day.

oops, let's see if this works.

[BaseballGM]

Frik- Congratulations as sports photography is a great hobby. I'm very much an amature and it has provided a ton of memories and items to display as a result. I'll only post of couple of fun ones as my collection goes into the thousands of pics. Keep preacticing and you'll get some great moments in time.

[Fnazxc0114]

this is why i recently bought a nicer camera than my regular point and shoot one. Cant wait for baseball to come back around. hey lastings how close were you for that shot?

[BaseballGM]

Frik- Congratulations as sports photography is a great hobby. I'm very much an amature and it has provided a ton of memories and items to display as a result. I'll only post of couple of fun ones as my collection goes into the thousands of pics. Keep preacticing and you'll get some great moments in time.

Here you go

[BaseballGM]

This is for Lastings

[jobathenut]

I love this thread as i love taking pictures at games.Here are some of my favorites.

[CampWest]

Here are a few from a couple years ago... need to get good seats again to make it worthwhile...

http://home.everestkc.net/wescampbell/PCollection/3.jpg

http://home.everestkc.net/wescampbell/PCollection/9.jpg

http://home.everestkc.net/wescampbell/PCollection/gordon3.jpg

http://home.everestkc.net/wescampbell/PCollection/jdr.jpg

http://home.everestkc.net/wescampbell/PCollection/marte.jpg

[yankees.stub]

This was the closet to the dugout .... 2nd row ...

Joel... this is for you!


:D

[yankees.stub]

How about this for photo-match of Jeter bat?... and some old hair piece from Merryl Lynch?

[yankees.stub]

An over-all nice guy ... would sign everything for everyone - kids and adults UNTIL the lousy security came over and escort him away from the crowd.....

[LastingsMilledge85]

Thanks for the Lastings picture. I have lots of pics from him as a Nat and Met, but it was before I got my Nikon so the quality is not good. Here are some more...

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/Milledge85/2009-07-20163.jpg?t=1265688440
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/Milledge85/2009-5-13146.jpg?t=1265688542
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/Milledge85/2009-07-03174.jpg?t=1265688580
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/Milledge85/2009-07-03271.jpg?t=1265688593
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/Milledge85/2009-4-26249.jpg?t=1265688607
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/Milledge85/2009-4-26276.jpg?t=1265688627
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/Milledge85/2009-5-10025.jpg?t=1265688641
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/Milledge85/2009-07-03070.jpg?t=1265688684
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/Milledge85/2009-09-03063.jpg?t=1265688712
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/Milledge85/2009-07-20286.jpg?t=1265688739
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/Milledge85/2009-07-20366.jpg?t=1265688755
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/Milledge85/2009-07-21098.jpg?t=1265688774
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/Milledge85/2009-07-21022.jpg?t=1265688793
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/Milledge85/2009-07-20021.jpg?t=1265688808
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/Milledge85/2009-07-20044.jpg?t=1265688820http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/Milledge85/2009-07-20236.jpg?t=1265688836
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/Milledge85/2009-07-20261.jpg?t=1265688848

[yankees.stub]

This was from the old yankees stadium - a couple games after Alex hits the 500th HR .... you can see the near empty background...

[yankees.stub]

oops... meant a couple games before the 500th HR game.


And how the stadium packed up to see the Yankees taking on the lowly Royals...

[frikativ54]

Frik- Congratulations as sports photography is a great hobby. I'm very much an amature and it has provided a ton of memories and items to display as a result. I'll only post of couple of fun ones as my collection goes into the thousands of pics. Keep preacticing and you'll get some great moments in time.

Thanks. I actually never even considered sports photography, until I was asked to take pics of a basketball game. My first ones came out horribly, but I vowed to return and take better pics. At wouldn't you know, I did just that a week and a half ago.

I know that people are showing off their pics of professional athletes. However, I didn't mean to limit the pics to merely the MLB. If you have an awesome shot of your son/daughter's Little League game, please do post it. Excellent shots don't have to be of professionals.

I am just a beginner. Been doing wildlife photography for a while, but never ventured into sports photography until I started taking pictures of my college's sporting events. Sports aren't really big at my school, so people are glad to have someone photographing the games.

[Neely8]

Here's a few I took with my Nikon D70.

aolemb://93B66DAB-C854-4231-A732-19A1FF63B448/066.JPG

aolemb://11862E24-DB76-4354-9FB2-79DD1209BCB9/096.JPG

aolemb://DDE649F9-2B06-4258-A912-456E1A11E18E/172.JPG

aolemb://B7AF4314-B9D9-4E0E-A031-7F6911BBE0BB/127.JPG

aolemb://158E0612-489E-4D49-B4DC-B0B7BCEC67B9/298.JPG

[Neely8]

aolemb://93B66DAB-C854-4231-A732-19A1FF63B448/066.JPG

aolemb://11862E24-DB76-4354-9FB2-79DD1209BCB9/096.JPG

aolemb://DDE649F9-2B06-4258-A912-456E1A11E18E/172.JPG

aolemb://B7AF4314-B9D9-4E0E-A031-7F6911BBE0BB/127.JPG

aolemb://158E0612-489E-4D49-B4DC-B0B7BCEC67B9/298.JPG

[Neely8]

Pics. won't post!

[CampWest]

I know that people are showing off their pics of professional athletes. However, I didn't mean to limit the pics to merely the MLB. If you have an awesome shot of your son/daughter's Little League game, please do post it. Excellent shots don't have to be of professionals.

Alright... How about Under 5 Karate belt test.

http://home.everestkc.net/wescampbell/PCollection/k1.JPG

http://home.everestkc.net/wescampbell/PCollection/k2.JPG
http://home.everestkc.net/wescampbell/PCollection/k3.JPG

sorry for the poor resolution, can't edit file size properly at work for web posting.

[yankees.stub]

Alright... How about Under 5 Karate belt test.

http://home.everestkc.net/wescampbell/PCollection/k1.JPG

http://home.everestkc.net/wescampbell/PCollection/k2.JPG
http://home.everestkc.net/wescampbell/PCollection/k3.JPG

sorry for the poor resolution, can't edit file size properly at work for web posting.



Oh man! I guess you wont need your shotgun when the boys begin to notice her. I think she can take care of herself! The second picture is PRICELESS - did i mentioned, perfect aim also?

Bad Karate instructor .... never aim the kick to the groin unless you are girl!

[favrenvikes09]

Heres someof mine from this season in the minors.

Angel Morales
http://i610.photobucket.com/albums/tt188/tolerjr/DSCN2105.jpg

Brett Lawrie
http://i610.photobucket.com/albums/tt188/tolerjr/DSCN2850.jpg

Ethan Martin
http://i610.photobucket.com/albums/tt188/tolerjr/DSCN1918.jpg

Dominic De La Osa
http://i610.photobucket.com/albums/tt188/tolerjr/DSCN2513.jpg

Shooter Hunt
http://i610.photobucket.com/albums/tt188/tolerjr/DSCN1784.jpg

Josh Vitters
http://i610.photobucket.com/albums/tt188/tolerjr/DSCN2202.jpg

Aaron Shafer
http://i610.photobucket.com/albums/tt188/tolerjr/DSCN2191.jpg

[bigtruck260]

Pujols vs. Ben Sheets, August 2007.

[yankees.stub]

Pujols vs. Ben Sheets, August 2007.



Nice shot!


Is the original in HI-RES?


Got a die-hard PUJOLS fan in the family - bet the kid will love it.


Only if it is cool with you ... and dont mind sharing .... I would love a copy of the picture.



:D

[chakes89]

Heres someof mine from this season in the minors.

Angel Morales
http://i610.photobucket.com/albums/tt188/tolerjr/DSCN2105.jpg

Brett Lawrie
http://i610.photobucket.com/albums/tt188/tolerjr/DSCN2850.jpg

Ethan Martin
http://i610.photobucket.com/albums/tt188/tolerjr/DSCN1918.jpg

Dominic De La Osa
http://i610.photobucket.com/albums/tt188/tolerjr/DSCN2513.jpg

Shooter Hunt
http://i610.photobucket.com/albums/tt188/tolerjr/DSCN1784.jpg

Josh Vitters
http://i610.photobucket.com/albums/tt188/tolerjr/DSCN2202.jpg

Aaron Shafer
http://i610.photobucket.com/albums/tt188/tolerjr/DSCN2191.jpg
Got any shots of Jay Bruce from 2006?

[grenda12]

The first 2 photos are with Pierzynski and the last one is of Thome

[favrenvikes09]

chakes89- sorry no pics of Bruce. Just got into photography this season but if there is anyone on Dayton this season you want pics of plmk. I sent you an email btw.

[chakes89]

chakes89- sorry no pics of Bruce. Just got into photography this season but if there is anyone on Dayton this season you want pics of plmk. I sent you an email btw.

Damn. Thanks anyway. Pics of Jay Bruce from 2006 seem to be more elusive than Big Foot.

I replied to your email as well.

[Jules9]

Although some may say racing isn't a sport http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c273/John1913/DSC_0402.jpg

[Neely8]

Can pics. just be copied and pasted on here or do you need to use URLs from a website or something? I think I remember copying and pasting some pics. awhile back and it worked but don't know why it didn't now.

[10thMan]

Les, Great thread!

Some great Pics, I know Kyle takes some good shots!

Karate Kids are priceless!


Sean

[frikativ54]

Les, Great thread!

Some great Pics, I know Kyle takes some good shots!

Karate Kids are priceless!


Sean

Where's Kyle Hess when you need him? I am really impressed with Kyle's photography, and would love to see him add to the thread.

My pics are getting better, but I really need a better sports photography lens. I am using a Nikkor 18-105 mm vr zoom lens, but it's too slow for sports action.

[kylehess10]

Thanks guys! I was shooting at every Braves series in 2009. Only thing that sucks though was that I was limited to a crappy camera and an even worser lens. I'm since upgraded to a Nikon D90 with a more professional lens (70-200mm f/2.8). I'll be shooting again this upcoming season. There's one usher in the stadium that doesn't care if my lens size exceeds Turner Field's limit (which mine is double the size), and she just so happens to be the dugout usher, so I should get some amazing shots.

Here's a few of my best images from the 2009 season:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2666/3985382099_71f9458794.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3436/3745667336_c3a4711974.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2655/3703805164_3496b8c7bb.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2603/3985369165_fd7fb7bfca.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2438/3532464049_05a18a3e0b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2652/3768562518_0c12c3ff26.jpg


http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3472/3831695468_45b3a1e190_o.jpg

[frikativ54]

Thanks guys! I was shooting at every Braves series in 2009. Only thing that sucks though was that I was limited to a crappy camera and an even worser lens. I'm since upgraded to a Nikon D90 with a more professional lens (70-200mm f/2.8). I'll be shooting again this upcoming season. There's one usher in the stadium that doesn't care if my lens size exceeds Turner Field's limit (which mine is double the size), and she just so happens to be the dugout usher, so I should get some amazing shots.

Here's a few of my best images from the 2009 season:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2666/3985382099_71f9458794.jpg


http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3472/3831695468_45b3a1e190_o.jpg

Amazing shots! I like the above two the best. Didn't know that there was a limit on lens size for Turner Field; what's the limit? Is this typical for stadiums? Does anyone enforce it?

[panthrotc]

Ryan Howard May 2007 - Rehabbing at the Lakewood Blueclaws. 12 minutes from my house...

http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t25/longball98/Howard%20Blueclaws/howard008.jpg

He hit this ball for a HR

http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t25/longball98/Howard%20Blueclaws/howard009.jpg

http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t25/longball98/Howard%20Blueclaws/howard016.jpg

[mskwarek]

Here are a couple of photos from a trip to Cincy last year, and a few from Wrigley.

http://skwarekfamily.smugmug.com/Other/Sport-Photos/randywells/629391351_YxduN-M.jpg

http://skwarekfamily.smugmug.com/Other/Sport-Photos/DLEEBW2/629391258_T7nC8-M.jpg

http://skwarekfamily.smugmug.com/Other/Sport-Photos/seats-sepia/629391203_RNeQw-M.jpg

http://skwarekfamily.smugmug.com/Other/Sport-Photos/CUBS/785995259_5yh2v-M.jpg

Mike-

[kylehess10]

Amazing shots! I like the above two the best. Didn't know that there was a limit on lens size for Turner Field; what's the limit? Is this typical for stadiums? Does anyone enforce it?


Yep....a lot of stadiums have limits on camera lens sizes. Turner Field says it can't be longer than 4 inches and you can't have a monopod. Unfortunately they do enforce it, but there's a few ushers who I offer free prints to and they let me take pics with it. There have been quite a few though that told me I couldn't use my lens, so I simply walk away and take pictures away from them. I'm not gonna let anyone tell me to put my camera up.

[allstarsplus]

Here are a couple of photos from a trip to Cincy last year, and a few from Wrigley.

http://skwarekfamily.smugmug.com/Other/Sport-Photos/randywells/629391351_YxduN-M.jpg

http://skwarekfamily.smugmug.com/Other/Sport-Photos/DLEEBW2/629391258_T7nC8-M.jpg

http://skwarekfamily.smugmug.com/Other/Sport-Photos/seats-sepia/629391203_RNeQw-M.jpg



Mike-

Mike - What editing software does that mono effect to the background to the black and white and sepia tones?

[mskwarek]

Mike - What editing software does that mono effect to the background to the black and white and sepia tones?

I use photoshop elements to create the color separation effects. It is done by:
* creating a copy of the original,
* changing the color of the copy to match your new background color (B&W or cepia)
* from the original full color copy, highlight and copy the part of the image that you want to stand out and paste it on top of the B&W/Cepia. Don't worry about cutting it out perfectly.
* Once you have pasted it, use the eraser tool to work away the color part of image to make it look clean.

There is no doubt that it takes practice, but it does create for some awesome pictures.

Mike

[allstarsplus]

I use photoshop elements to create the color separation effects. It is done by:
* creating a copy of the original,
* changing the color of the copy to match your new background color (B&W or cepia)
* from the original full color copy, highlight and copy the part of the image that you want to stand out and paste it on top of the B&W/Cepia. Don't worry about cutting it out perfectly.
* Once you have pasted it, use the eraser tool to work away the color part of image to make it look clean.

There is no doubt that it takes practice, but it does create for some awesome pictures.

Mike

That is so cool. I saw Steiner do that with Jeter catching the foul ball in the stands and always liked that effect.

How long does it take you to do it?

[mskwarek]

That is so cool. I saw Steiner do that with Jeter catching the foul ball in the stands and always liked that effect.

How long does it take you to do it?

I can get a picture done in about 30 minutes. Shoot me a PM if you have a photo that you would like to have converted..

Mike

[allstarsplus]

I can get a picture done in about 30 minutes. Shoot me a PM if you have a photo that you would like to have converted..

Mike

Very kind of you! Thanks!

[buckeyegamers]

Thought I'd add a few football shots to the thread. Some photos I took of one of my favorite subjects, my son in college and then back to high school.

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w14/buckeyegamers/misc/CopyofDSC_0093.jpg
http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w14/buckeyegamers/misc/CopyofDSC_0082.jpg
http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w14/buckeyegamers/misc/CopyofDSC_0084.jpg
http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w14/buckeyegamers/misc/CopyofDSC_0062.jpg
http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w14/buckeyegamers/misc/PickeringtonNorth200614-1.jpg
http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w14/buckeyegamers/misc/Delaware200611.jpg
http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w14/buckeyegamers/misc/Bellefontaine200611.jpg

[CampWest]

Here are a couple of photos from a trip to Cincy last year, and a few from Wrigley.
Mike-

Great work Mike... I need to take some Photoshop lessons... I have a couple great shots, that just don't work for me because of cost constraints I cannot afford a 400/2.8 to get the DOF and bokeh needed to offset the hitter from the spectators when shooting a subject at 100 feet with the background at 120 feet. Going monochrome behind color really helps offset that equipment limitation. I tried some gausian blur effects but just struggle to get good subject isolation in the tool.

Anyhow, rambling now... Back on topic. Great work, I enjoyed that, thanks for sharing.

[CampWest]

I use photoshop elements to create the color separation effects. It is done by:
* creating a copy of the original,
* changing the color of the copy to match your new background color (B&W or cepia)
* from the original full color copy, highlight and copy the part of the image that you want to stand out and paste it on top of the B&W/Cepia. Don't worry about cutting it out perfectly.
* Once you have pasted it, use the eraser tool to work away the color part of image to make it look clean.

There is no doubt that it takes practice, but it does create for some awesome pictures.

Mike

Not to question your expertise, You are clearly better in Photoshop than I... But just for my education, is it easier to copy and paste with precise alignment than it would be to create a monochrome background layer and overlay it with a full color layer, doing the same eraser tool of the background in the full-color layer. Then one would be working with the same image size and it eliminates the need to copy and paste that cutout?

Have you had any luck using a wand or lasso to try to let PS identify the subject? or is it easier to free hand the eraser at say 200%? What size do you go to for the edge work on the subject, my attempts have always failed because of bad edges on the subject and a lack of time to really hone the skills.

Thanks for your time.

[CampWest]

Nice as always Kyle... Is this stadium shot a single image or a stitch? What focal length was that at? I'm planning to try a few of those on a 17-40 on a full frame - Maybe during friday night fireworks, if I can get a tripod in somehow. Hopefully wide enough. Also, I use a 70-200/4 I keep debating on upgrading to a 2.8, but its a big price difference for that extra stop.

Royals don't mind much once you are in the stadium as long as you dont get any complaints for blocking the view of others, luckily the Royals stink so usually there is plenty of space to spread out and not get in anyone's way ;) . The entrance ushers do check equipment, but they've historically enforced inconsistently. If one turns me away I go in another entrance. I think the Royals just try to limit "unlicensed professionals", but dont enforce the size restrictions too strictly. My 70-200/4 is the white Canon L series, and even though there are similar price and length black "consumer" lenses a few accuse me of being a professional, just because the lens is white. I try to keep it in its pouch in my bag and put on my black wide angle lens when entering the stadium to avoid hassles. And luckily they've allowed monopods too!

Security policy limits "Cameras with 12" or more lenses" -thats plenty big for me... Royals FAQ... "Although still and video cameras are welcome in the stadium, please do not set up tripods or block the view of other guests. Flash photography of the game and videotaping of the game action, however, is strictly prohibited."


Thanks guys! I was shooting at every Braves series in 2009. Only thing that sucks though was that I was limited to a crappy camera and an even worser lens. I'm since upgraded to a Nikon D90 with a more professional lens (70-200mm f/2.8). I'll be shooting again this upcoming season. There's one usher in the stadium that doesn't care if my lens size exceeds Turner Field's limit (which mine is double the size), and she just so happens to be the dugout usher, so I should get some amazing shots.

Here's a few of my best images from the 2009 season:http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3472/3831695468_45b3a1e190_o.jpg

[Fnazxc0114]

that would make a nice 16x20 print kyle

[Ollie]

Wow! I love seeing these great photos! Here's a couple of photos I took on the annual Yankees road trip with Mom last year. Bought myself a new Canon Powershot Camera that worked out great this/last year. (Have resized them to make them small enough for the forums)

http://img508.imageshack.us/img508/5265/img0045m.jpg
http://img692.imageshack.us/img692/2605/img0059ef.jpg
http://img716.imageshack.us/img716/3626/img0048x.jpg
http://img715.imageshack.us/img715/5056/img0102f.jpg
http://img684.imageshack.us/img684/9646/img0106ha.jpg
http://img17.imageshack.us/img17/1179/img0184de.jpg
http://img695.imageshack.us/img695/6362/img0192bm.jpg
http://img714.imageshack.us/img714/9537/img0225q.jpg
http://img713.imageshack.us/img713/2209/img0269p.jpg
http://img24.imageshack.us/img24/2994/img0271is.jpg
http://img697.imageshack.us/img697/34/img0274r.jpg
http://img4.imageshack.us/img4/6405/img0280jb.jpg
http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/7587/img0294ti.jpg
http://img709.imageshack.us/img709/7241/img0665v.jpg
http://img638.imageshack.us/img638/7758/img0682h.jpg
http://img697.imageshack.us/img697/2971/img0697n.jpg
http://img11.imageshack.us/img11/7698/img0736ow.jpg
http://img17.imageshack.us/img17/537/img0759b.jpg
http://img535.imageshack.us/img535/2060/img0728.jpg

[Ollie]

Cont...

http://img130.imageshack.us/img130/4076/img0706l.jpg
http://img705.imageshack.us/img705/3460/img0699q.jpg
http://img121.imageshack.us/img121/9156/img0733v.jpg

[joelsabi]

Thought I'd add a few football shots to the thread. Some photos I took of one of my favorite subjects, my son in college and then back to high school.

[/IMG]

Great shots. I bet your son appreciates them a lot.

[sylbry]

It isn't a good photo but I was drunk out of my mind when I took it. So I get a kick out of it. Shows Mauer, Morneau, Damon, and whoever is on first.

http://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x16/sylbry/Pics/P1010015.jpg

[kylehess10]

Nice as always Kyle... Is this stadium shot a single image or a stitch? What focal length was that at? I'm planning to try a few of those on a 17-40 on a full frame - Maybe during friday night fireworks, if I can get a tripod in somehow. Hopefully wide enough. Also, I use a 70-200/4 I keep debating on upgrading to a 2.8, but its a big price difference for that extra stop.

Royals don't mind much once you are in the stadium as long as you dont get any complaints for blocking the view of others, luckily the Royals stink so usually there is plenty of space to spread out and not get in anyone's way ;) . The entrance ushers do check equipment, but they've historically enforced inconsistently. If one turns me away I go in another entrance. I think the Royals just try to limit "unlicensed professionals", but dont enforce the size restrictions too strictly. My 70-200/4 is the white Canon L series, and even though there are similar price and length black "consumer" lenses a few accuse me of being a professional, just because the lens is white. I try to keep it in its pouch in my bag and put on my black wide angle lens when entering the stadium to avoid hassles. And luckily they've allowed monopods too!

Security policy limits "Cameras with 12" or more lenses" -thats plenty big for me... Royals FAQ... "Although still and video cameras are welcome in the stadium, please do not set up tripods or block the view of other guests. Flash photography of the game and videotaping of the game action, however, is strictly prohibited."


I can't remember the exact focal length, but I believe it was around 28mm. It's 3 pictures stitched together using Panorama Maker.

I also used a 70-200mm f/4 lens and it has nice results but having the aperture at 5.6 at 200mm just was killing the quality of the image. That's why I upgraded to a 2.8. Best part is whether you're zoomed in at 70mm or 200mm it's at 2.8 all the way through. I got a Sigma brand to save a thousand dollars. The Nikon version will run you $1500+. Sigma costs $800 new but I got mine in like new condition for $460. Quality looks the same. I highly recommend it if you want professional quality images.

[CampWest]

I can't remember the exact focal length, but I believe it was around 28mm. It's 3 pictures stitched together using Panorama Maker.

I also used a 70-200mm f/4 lens and it has nice results but having the aperture at 5.6 at 200mm just was killing the quality of the image. That's why I upgraded to a 2.8. Best part is whether you're zoomed in at 70mm or 200mm it's at 2.8 all the way through. I got a Sigma brand to save a thousand dollars. The Nikon version will run you $1500+. Sigma costs $800 new but I got mine in like new condition for $460. Quality looks the same. I highly recommend it if you want professional quality images.

Yeah my Canon luckily has a fixed f/4 at all focal lengths. I hate variable aperatures, I pretty much don't even consider those at all. My Canon 70-200/4L was about $550, the Sigma 70-200/2.8 runs about the same $800, while the Canon 70-200/2.8L runs about 1250. If I get the 2.8, I'll probably get the Sigma, it really is a great lens... But the 70-200/4 is easily one of the best values in camera lenses.

Well, I'll try to remember to follow up once I try my stadium panorama, I'm thinking I'll probably stitch 5 shots at 24mm.

[allstarsplus]

Since I got my Sony w/ 10 shots per second, I have been going crazy with the pictures.

Great to photomatch with your own photos!!!!!!!

[CampWest]

Since I got my Sony w/ 10 shots per second, I have been going crazy with the pictures.

Great to photomatch with your own photos!!!!!!!

Thats not a still camera, thats a slow rate video camera.. :rolleyes: My first Canon DSLR shot 6 fps and that was nuts... 10 is just ridiculous.

[kylehess10]

Thats not a still camera, thats a slow rate video camera.. :rolleyes: My first Canon DSLR shot 6 fps and that was nuts... 10 is just ridiculous.


Mine is 4.5 fps. There's not really too much of a necessity for a high fps camera unless you need it for something like a milestone homerun.

Here's a cool fact....there were photographers at the game where Bonds hit #756...they had 3 cameras hooked up together and sync'd to have 30fps!

[allstarsplus]

Thats not a still camera, thats a slow rate video camera.. :rolleyes: My first Canon DSLR shot 6 fps and that was nuts... 10 is just ridiculous.

Only problem is after the 10 shots it then takes 20 seconds before I am ready to shoot again!

It works great on baseball going through the swing. Not as great following my son's football games as it is best focused on 1 target.

When I took Batting Practice at Nationals Park this summer, the camera was great to go through the entire swing frame-by-frame.

CapitalSticks just bought the same camera with a zoom lens. Can't wait to upgrade my lens to shoot from further away.

The Nationals I think require lens under 6 inches so have to check on that too!

[mskwarek]

Not to question your expertise, You are clearly better in Photoshop than I... But just for my education, is it easier to copy and paste with precise alignment than it would be to create a monochrome background layer and overlay it with a full color layer, doing the same eraser tool of the background in the full-color layer. Then one would be working with the same image size and it eliminates the need to copy and paste that cutout?

Have you had any luck using a wand or lasso to try to let PS identify the subject? or is it easier to free hand the eraser at say 200%? What size do you go to for the edge work on the subject, my attempts have always failed because of bad edges on the subject and a lack of time to really hone the skills.

Thanks for your time.

I have always found it easier to copy the color subject and paste it on top of the B&W copy. Using the selection tool to highlight and erase is a huge help in getting the edges to be clean. I then blow the picture up to 300% to clean up anything that the selection tool missed.

I just completed a picture for Andrew of Ryan Zimmerman in about 10 minutes this way. The technique is what I'm used to -and- what has worked for me in the past.

Mike

[allstarsplus]

I have always found it easier to copy the color subject and paste it on top of the B&W copy. Using the selection tool to highlight and erase is a huge help in getting the edges to be clean. I then blow the picture up to 300% to clean up anything that the selection tool missed.

I just completed a picture for Andrew of Ryan Zimmerman in about 10 minutes this way. The technique is what I'm used to -and- what has worked for me in the past.

Mike

That is so cool! Thanks so much Mike! Can't wait to get that printed out!

[allstarsplus]

I also like this technique which is photo painting by a photo artist named James McKinnis as he has written books on this technique.

30274

And then this technique on a photo

30275

Love the filmstrip too!

30276

[frikativ54]

http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j16/frikativ54/ReedBasketball14.jpg


http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j16/frikativ54/ReedBasketball12.jpg


http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j16/frikativ54/ReedBasketball10.jpg


http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j16/frikativ54/ReedBasketball1.jpg


http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j16/frikativ54/ReedBasketball2.jpg
http://images.kodakgallery.com/servlet/Images/-832920919/photos3014/4/42/84/22/79/7/779228442407_0_BG.jpg

[joelsabi]

Here are a couple of photos from a trip to Cincy last year, and a few from Wrigley.

http://skwarekfamily.smugmug.com/Other/Sport-Photos/randywells/629391351_YxduN-M.jpg

http://skwarekfamily.smugmug.com/Other/Sport-Photos/DLEEBW2/629391258_T7nC8-M.jpg



Mike-

I like this technique or effect. Is there a formal name for it?

[harpt]

http://images.kodakgallery.com/servlet/Images/-832920919/photos3014/4/42/84/22/79/7/779228442407_0_BG.jpg

Holy cow Les...I can't tell you how much I love that gymnasium. How cool!!

[frikativ54]

Holy cow Les...I can't tell you how much I love that gymnasium. How cool!!

What do you love about it?

[frikativ54]

I like this technique or effect. Is there a formal name for it?

Isn't it selective color change? Correct me if I'm wrong.

[kylehess10]

Isn't it selective color change? Correct me if I'm wrong.


Same thing basically, but most like me just call it selective color. I've done it a lot.

[kylehess10]

I also like this technique which is photo painting by a photo artist named James McKinnis as he has written books on this technique.

34997

And then this technique on a photo

34998

Love the filmstrip too!

34999


I've attempted making a picture like that Griffey before. I've since learned better ways to make it look more better though


http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3568/3532465385_1e4448f071.jpg

[allstarsplus]

I've attempted making a picture like that Griffey before. I've since learned better ways to make it look more better though


http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3568/3532465385_1e4448f071.jpg

Kyle - You are amazing too! I hope you got one to Campillo!!!!! The athletes love this kind of stuff too!

Now if you can make a film strip!!!!!!!!!!

[kylehess10]

Kyle - You are amazing too! I hope you got one to Campillo!!!!! The athletes love this kind of stuff too!

Now if you can make a film strip!!!!!!!!!!

Yep....Campillo has a couple. Almost every Atlanta Braves has atleast 1 photo of mine. This lady at the stadium helps in getting my photos to all the players.

I'll definitely try the film strip one this season

[chakes89]

What do you love about it?
How much seating is in that gym?

[frikativ54]

How much seating is in that gym?

No clue.

[harpt]

What do you love about it?

I love all the wood...and those rafters. I've never seen anything like it. It's like someone built a great basketball court in a beautiful old barn.

[MichaelofSF]

a few baseball shots shrunken down in size so they don't get stolen
1) Carlos Beltran - made it into a poster that he signed
2) Zack Greinke MLB debut - made into a poster that he signed
3) Justin Upton HR swing in the futures game
4) Greinke pitching in his 2009 Cy Young year
5) Alex Gordon throwing to 1st
6) Jose Reyes flying into 3rd
7) David Wright throwing to 1st
8) David Wright ready to hit
9) Barry Bonds watching his ball in flight

[allstarsplus]

a few baseball shots shrunken down in size so they don't get stolen
1) Carlos Beltran - made it into a poster that he signed
2) Zack Greinke MLB debut - made into a poster that he signed
3) Justin Upton HR swing in the futures game
4) Greinke pitching in his 2009 Cy Young year
5) Alex Gordon throwing to 1st
6) Jose Reyes flying into 3rd
7) David Wright throwing to 1st
8) David Wright ready to hit
9) Barry Bonds watching his ball in flight

Those are amazing! Was that actual Kodak film that you blew up for the Beltran or was that computer generated?

[chakes89]

Do you have any photos of Jay Bruce from the Futures Game?

Thanks

[MichaelofSF]

Chakes, no Bruce, just Longoria, Upton and Hochevar from that game.


some golf shots, of course shrunken down in size...
1) MJ at Edgewood - made it into a poster, had it UDA signed true 1/1
2) MJ follow through
3) MJ in fairway
4) Lefty thinking about his shot this week at MPCC
5) Lefty getting out of the fairway bunker
6) Lefty on the tee box
7) Brady thinking he's glad he plays football for a living
8) Brady lining up a putt that he sinks

[MichaelofSF]

Andrew,
What I did for the Beltran was scan a Fuji film strip of mine. The poster was actually made using shots from film camera as these were taken when I was still shooting an F5. So I scanned the negatives of the photos and placed them onto the scan of the film strip using editing software. I made 2 copies of the poster, gave one to Beltran and had him sign mine.

[frikativ54]

Chakes, no Bruce, just Longoria, Upton and Hochevar from that game.


some golf shots, of course shrunken down in size...
1) MJ at Edgewood - made it into a poster, had it UDA signed true 1/1
2) MJ follow through
3) MJ in fairway
4) Lefty thinking about his shot this week at MPCC
5) Lefty getting out of the fairway bunker
6) Lefty on the tee box
7) Brady thinking he's glad he plays football for a living
8) Brady lining up a putt that he sinks

Michael,

Those are truly impressive, especially the first one. Are you a professional photographer?

[frikativ54]

I love all the wood...and those rafters. I've never seen anything like it. It's like someone built a great basketball court in a beautiful old barn.

Yeah, it's an interesting place. Nobody really takes sports that seriously here at Reed. So - that's why you don't see hundreds of seats or anything like that. It would be interesting to find out the history of that gym.

I am going to take pics at tomorrow's basketball game. If I get any good shots, I'll post them here. I am fairly new at sports photography, as I only started last December. But I am trying to learn as quickly as possible.

-Frik

[GoTigers]

From our trip to Boston last year.. These were all taken with a junky $50 point and shoot. We are having our first baby in June, so I'm actually going camera shopping this weekend. I'd love some advice on an all-purpose camera for home and sporting events.. looking to spend 300-600ish

[CampWest]

a few baseball shots shrunken down in size so they don't get stolen
1) Carlos Beltran - made it into a poster that he signed
2) Zack Greinke MLB debut - made into a poster that he signed
3) Justin Upton HR swing in the futures game
4) Greinke pitching in his 2009 Cy Young year
5) Alex Gordon throwing to 1st
6) Jose Reyes flying into 3rd
7) David Wright throwing to 1st
8) David Wright ready to hit
9) Barry Bonds watching his ball in flight

Hey Michael, great work... I can't get to my email for a couple days, but remind me to talk to you about #2.

[redoctober]

Check out the sports tab at the bottom left of my photo webpage... 2009 ALCS Game 3 (Yankees & Angels) plus Reds, Dodgers, Giants, Marlins, Nationals, Braves, Padres, Astros from 2009. Plus 2010 Rose Bowl (Ohio State) and UNLV basketball from this season. These print up great for autographs on 8x10's. Hope someone can find a photomatch!

http://cmluebke.smugmug.com/

[frikativ54]

Check out the sports tab at the bottom left of my photo webpage... 2009 ALCS Game 3 (Yankees & Angels) plus Reds, Dodgers, Giants, Marlins, Nationals, Braves, Padres, Astros from 2009. Plus 2010 Rose Bowl (Ohio State) and UNLV basketball from this season. These print up great for autographs on 8x10's. Hope someone can find a photomatch!

http://cmluebke.smugmug.com/

Nice job freezing the action. What camera and lenses did you use?

[allstarsplus]

Check out the sports tab at the bottom left of my photo webpage... 2009 ALCS Game 3 (Yankees & Angels) plus Reds, Dodgers, Giants, Marlins, Nationals, Braves, Padres, Astros from 2009. Plus 2010 Rose Bowl (Ohio State) and UNLV basketball from this season. These print up great for autographs on 8x10's. Hope someone can find a photomatch!

http://cmluebke.smugmug.com/


http://cmluebke.smugmug.com/Sports/Washington-Nationals-2009/11111154_HxtAY#778286945_iqL3Q-O-LB

Nice pics at the Nats game. I was there enduring the rain. Wasn't sure if that was from the tie game that was suspended by rain.

[redoctober]

The Nats game was Monday 5/4/09. Steady drizzle all night, but nobody in the stands!

[Metsfan808]

http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q285/metsfan808/Figueroa1copy.jpghttp://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q285/metsfan808/Martinez2copy.jpghttp://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q285/metsfan808/Reyes14copy.jpghttp://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q285/metsfan808/Santana3copy.jpg

[dcrules01]

Great photos Carmello..I love the Reyes :D

[Manram]

http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q285/metsfan808/Figueroa1copy.jpghttp://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q285/metsfan808/Martinez2copy.jpghttp://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q285/metsfan808/Reyes14copy.jpghttp://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q285/metsfan808/Santana3copy.jpg


That picture of reyes is really cool. Nice pictures everyone

[Metsfan808]

Thanks guys here are some more:

http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q285/metsfan808/Picture056copy.jpg
http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q285/metsfan808/Picture120copy.jpg
http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q285/metsfan808/Picture160copy.jpg
http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q285/metsfan808/Picture162copy.jpg
http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q285/metsfan808/Picture188copy.jpg
http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q285/metsfan808/Picture202copy.jpg
http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q285/metsfan808/Picture267copy.jpg
http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q285/metsfan808/Picture269copy.jpg
http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q285/metsfan808/Picture378copy.jpg
http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q285/metsfan808/Picture417copy.jpg

[redoctober]

Nice job freezing the action. What camera and lenses did you use?


Nikon D90 camera w/ Nikkor 70-300mm AF-S VR f/4.5-5.6G IF-ED lens.

[frikativ54]

Any sports photography tips for the beginners out there. I am hardly a beginning photographer, but my background is mostly in wildlife photography. So - I don't know as much about shooting sports shots.

Thanks.

[kylehess10]

Any sports photography tips for the beginners out there. I am hardly a beginning photographer, but my background is mostly in wildlife photography. So - I don't know as much about shooting sports shots.

Thanks.

Simple tips:

Never shoot automatic

Never shoot with flash

High shutter speed during day games...keep the ISO as low as you can

High ISO for night games (as long as you have a camera with good ISO noise). I personally don't go past 1600 ISO. You'll be forced to keep the shutter speed low so you can't expect any action shots. It's better to get shots like after a swing or right before

Always have the right white balance (get a white balance card...I got one for $10)

[frikativ54]

Simple tips:

Never shoot automatic

Never shoot with flash

While the never shoot automatic makes perfect sense, I don't understand what's bad about using a flash. Matter of fact, I find it helpful to use my SB-900 at basketball games.

Are you only talking baseball? What's wrong with using flash at a baseball game?

-Frik

[kylehess10]

While the never shoot automatic makes perfect sense, I don't understand what's bad about using a flash. Matter of fact, I find it helpful to use my SB-900 at basketball games.

Are you only talking baseball? What's wrong with using flash at a baseball game?

-Frik


Using flash in sports is basically making it look un-natural. I only use flash for portait photography. I don't think I've seen a professional photographer in any sport use flash. That's why they just push the ISO settings up to get the correct lighting.

[frikativ54]

Using flash in sports is basically making it look un-natural.

Can you give me an example of how it's unnatural? I would really like to know.


I don't think I've seen a professional photographer in any sport use flash.Other sports photographers, do you concur with Kyle?


That's why they just push the ISO settings up to get the correct lighting.The problem with that is that I get a ton of noise. I am using a Nikon D300S. I also don't have a sports photography lens, so maybe that's part of the problem. My Nikkor 18-105 mm is adequate, but it's not a sports lens.

[kylehess10]

Can you give me an example of how it's unnatural? I would really like to know.

Other sports photographers, do you concur with Kyle?

The problem with that is that I get a ton of noise. I am using a Nikon D300S. I also don't have a sports photography lens, so maybe that's part of the problem. My Nikkor 18-105 mm is adequate, but it's not a sports lens.



I've tried once using my flash and it just didn't look right so I deleted them right away. Sports is just a place where you don't expect to see extra lights from a flash. If you ever notice the photographers at the stadiums packed together, you always see that they never even carry a flash.

I used a Nikon D80 last season, which also had a bad bit of noise at high ISO levels, so I shot primarily at day games. I just don't like dealing with night games. There's no action to capture, and the quality is lost.

The D90 and D3/D3x have the best high ISO in my opinion

[jobathenut]

Kyle-I hate to disagree with you.As you know more than i do when it comes to taking pictures.But you do realize that professional photographers at games like hockey do use a flash.As they have the flashes by the lights of the arena and triggers the flashes when they take pictures.And by the way there is a difference as heres two pictures i took of the same player one using and one not using a flash for the picture.
Using flash in sports is basically making it look un-natural. I only use flash for portait photography. I don't think I've seen a professional photographer in any sport use flash. That's why they just push the ISO settings up to get the correct lighting.

[Manram]

I do not take pictures, but those two pics are way different

[CampWest]

Kyle-I hate to disagree with you.As you know more than i do when it comes to taking pictures.But you do realize that professional photographers at games like hockey do use a flash.As they have the flashes by the lights of the arena and triggers the flashes when they take pictures.And by the way there is a difference as heres two pictures i took of the same player one using and one not using a flash for the picture.

Which one had the flash? left or right?

You miss one key point to your supporting argument, the professionals are enhancing the existing lighting source, not introducing a new direction of lighting source that could theoretically distract and endanger players or annoy paying spectators. Boxing matches will often also have slave flash units added to the existing lighting as well. But the whole point to that is to have all lighting coming from the same primary source direction, not additional lighting coming from everywhere.

Bottom line, most arenas/stadiums have a rule prohibiting the use of flash photography by fans. Obviously enforcement is nearly null.

My biggest problem with using flash at the normal spectator distances is that most flash units will diffuse before hitting a subject that is 2% of the field of view at 100+ feet away. They just dont have enough power to effectively expose a subject that far away. Many on-board flash units are wholly ineffective on a subject over 15 feet away. And if you are closer than that to a player and flashing a bright light in their face, you are putting them at risk. Using an ineffective flash will generally result in significantly underexposed images.

Your best bet is to honor the stadium rules and put away the flash, crank up your ISO to 800, shoot in Aperture Priority mode at your lens's largest aperture, and take a properly exposed picture with the available light. They are playing a dangerous fast moving sport, there should be enough light in the venue to allow for properly exposed images without annoying your neighbors or endangering the players.

[cohibasmoker]

I kind of like the Sports Illustrated photos.

Of course the "Political Correct" folks don't like it but as the article states, their bodies are the by-product of hard work and sacrifice.

http://sports.yahoo.com/olympics/vancouver/blog/fourth_place_medal/post/Vonn-Teter-comfortable-with-their-bodies-you-s?urn=oly,219554

http://www.gather.com/viewArticle.action?articleId=281474978031340

Just my opinion - hope I didn't offend anyone.

Jim

[frikativ54]

Your best bet is to honor the stadium rules and put away the flash, crank up your ISO to 800, shoot in Aperture Priority mode at your lens's largest aperture, and take a properly exposed picture with the available light. They are playing a dangerous fast moving sport, there should be enough light in the venue to allow for properly exposed images without annoying your neighbors or endangering the players.

Why do you recommend aperture priority mode over shutter priority mode? I usually use shutter priority on 1/250 with my ISO at 1600 for court-side photography. I understand your point about the flash, but my lens simply doesn't let in enough light to do non-flash pictures.

Perhaps I should buy another lens, but I do not have enough money to afford that kind of upgrade. Especially when I'm buying a new nature photography lens, which is my true passion. So - I am trying to make due with what I have, my Nikkor 18-105 mm lens.

Please explain how you work aperture priority mode and what are the advantages over shutter priority mode?

-Frik

[jobathenut]

Obviously the much brighter picture is the one with a flash.I don't know as much as you experts do on here about photography.And i understand all the things you mentioned.But its still a flash,isn't it.Like i said i don't have the knowledge you guys have but it seems to me no matter where it comes from,from the camera or from the light's, it's still a flash of light and would still be consider a flash.But i don't want to disgree or start a argument over this.I just thought i would post pictures showing the difference in pictures.
Which one had the flash? left or right?

You miss one key point to your supporting argument, the professionals are enhancing the existing lighting source, not introducing a new direction of lighting source that could theoretically distract and endanger players or annoy paying spectators. Boxing matches will often also have slave flash units added to the existing lighting as well. But the whole point to that is to have all lighting coming from the same primary source direction, not additional lighting coming from everywhere.

Bottom line, most arenas/stadiums have a rule prohibiting the use of flash photography by fans. Obviously enforcement is nearly null.

My biggest problem with using flash at the normal spectator distances is that most flash units will diffuse before hitting a subject that is 2% of the field of view at 100+ feet away. They just dont have enough power to effectively expose a subject that far away. Many on-board flash units are wholly ineffective on a subject over 15 feet away. And if you are closer than that to a player and flashing a bright light in their face, you are putting them at risk. Using an ineffective flash will generally result in significantly underexposed images.

Your best bet is to honor the stadium rules and put away the flash, crank up your ISO to 800, shoot in Aperture Priority mode at your lens's largest aperture, and take a properly exposed picture with the available light. They are playing a dangerous fast moving sport, there should be enough light in the venue to allow for properly exposed images without annoying your neighbors or endangering the players.

[tknorm]

Kyle and CampWest,

How close to the field are you when you took these pictures?

Thanks,
Tommy

[CampWest]

Obviously the much brighter picture is the one with a flash.

Its really not obvious at all. Exposure has several factors, brightness of the subject, aperture (amount of light passing through lens), shutter speed (amount of time light is exposing the film/sensor), ISO (the film/sensor's sensitivity to light). So too many unknowns to state for certain which picture had the flash.

Anyhow, I personally think the second/darker image has the better exposure. The lighter image is overexposed, there is a loss of detail in the painted lines in the ice and the player's jersey shows less detail.

I pulled down your two photos... The brighter image has a 1/40th second exposure at f3.5 and the darker has a faster 1/60th second exposure at the same f3.5 (aka aperture). So that tells me the first/over-exposed image has too slow of a shutter speed - too much light hitting the sensor. The second image was close to properly exposed. My software, interestingly is telling me that the flash was turned off in both images. Which makes sense since the differences can easily be attributed to the difference in the amount of time the shutter was open. I think the difference you are seeing is not attributable to the flash and merely to differences in shutter speed.

Anyhow, my reasoning for not using a flash was and is, that all but the best professional-caliber flashes are ineffective at spectator distances, causing the camera to incorrectly expose an image in a lot of cases. And generally flash photography is prohibited.

[CampWest]

Kyle and CampWest,

How close to the field are you when you took these pictures?

Thanks,
Tommy

Some I was in the first row right behind the 3rd base on deck circle, others were in the 1st base dugout suite... So, anywhere from 100' to 25' from home plate.

[CampWest]

For me, its just a personal preference... I almost always shoot in aperture priority whether doing portrait, sport, or landscape.

In portraits, I want to control the depth of field to isolate the subject from the background. For landscape I want to ensure I have enough depth of field to have enough of my subject in focus. For action/sports, like in portraits I want the subject isolated by a large aperture limiting depth of field but also I want the fastest shutter speed available, which will always be at the largest aperture setting for your lens. Larger the aperture = the faster the shutter speed.

I'm more comfortable isolating my desired aperture and letting the shutter speed float. If there isn't enough light to get a fast enough shutter speed to stop the action, say 1/250th or faster, then I leave aperture alone and crank up the ISO until I'm shooting at a fast enough shutter speed to freeze the action.

Also, some lenses have lower image quality at the largest and smallest apertures. At small apertures you get chromatic abberations, at larger apertures you may have less resolution. The sweet spot of nearly every lens is in the f5.6-f8 range. Depending on how good the lens is, the differences in image quality at different apertures may be more or less of an issue - a pro quality lens performs well at all apertures where an entry level lens performs less consistently across the aperture range.

+++
I've found that using shutter priority mode, can cause big swings in aperture, which for my preference is a bad thing...

As an example picture a day where the sun is moving in and out behind clouds, or even better part of the field is in bright sun and part is in a shadow (I'v taken pictures where everything beyond the mound is sun, but the batters box/home plate is in full shade. If I lock a 1/500th shutter speed I may get an aperture of f13 on a player in the sun which for me is an undesirable aperture... Then I track over to a player in the shade, but I may not have a big enough aperture at that shutter speed resulting in a picture thats underexposed at f4.

If I lock in a f4.5 aperture, I might get a 1/2000th second on the player in the sun and a 1/250th on a player in the shade. Both photos are acceptable, where as in shutter mode neither was acceptable.

Obviously, if lighting is consistent like in a basketball court, its not as big of an issue and shutter speed priority may not create many severe aperture fluctuations... but for me, i'm mostly outdoors and there is not consistent lighting very often. Aperture just works better for my style. If shutter works better for your settings and style, then stick with it.





Why do you recommend aperture priority mode over shutter priority mode? I usually use shutter priority on 1/250 with my ISO at 1600 for court-side photography. I understand your point about the flash, but my lens simply doesn't let in enough light to do non-flash pictures.

Perhaps I should buy another lens, but I do not have enough money to afford that kind of upgrade. Especially when I'm buying a new nature photography lens, which is my true passion. So - I am trying to make due with what I have, my Nikkor 18-105 mm lens.

Please explain how you work aperture priority mode and what are the advantages over shutter priority mode?

-Frik

[jobathenut]

Campwest-I just like taking pictures at sporting events.My camera expertise is this.I turn the camera on and hit the button.You might as well be speaking a foriegn language to me as i did understand what you are talking about.As far as shutter speed and all of that.I have no knowledge when it comes to that kind of thing.Is the shutter speed something i control.I will be honest i am completely stubid when it comes to this technical aspects of the photo hobby.But you have to admit i might take pictures like the great one kyle,but for someone who knows nothing about what they are doing i take alright pictures.As far as the hockey pictures go.I NEVER use the flash on my camera at games.I assummed that the professional photographer at the game triggered the light the same time i took a picture.As the one was so much brighter than the other picture.Thanks for all the information now if i was just smart enough to know what it ment.:(
Its really not obvious at all. Exposure has several factors, brightness of the subject, aperture (amount of light passing through lens), shutter speed (amount of time light is exposing the film/sensor), ISO (the film/sensor's sensitivity to light). So too many unknowns to state for certain which picture had the flash.

Anyhow, I personally think the second/darker image has the better exposure. The lighter image is overexposed, there is a loss of detail in the painted lines in the ice and the player's jersey shows less detail.

I pulled down your two photos... The brighter image has a 1/40th second exposure at f3.5 and the darker has a faster 1/60th second exposure at the same f3.5 (aka aperture). So that tells me the first/over-exposed image has too slow of a shutter speed - too much light hitting the sensor. The second image was close to properly exposed. My software, interestingly is telling me that the flash was turned off in both images. Which makes sense since the differences can easily be attributed to the difference in the amount of time the shutter was open. I think the difference you are seeing is not attributable to the flash and merely to differences in shutter speed.

Anyhow, my reasoning for not using a flash was and is, that all but the best professional-caliber flashes are ineffective at spectator distances, causing the camera to incorrectly expose an image in a lot of cases. And generally flash photography is prohibited.

[HawaiiSportsNut]

Great photography guys. Those of you who live where there are professional sports are so lucky. I don't have any pro sport team where I live in Hawaii so all of my sports photography is of local college teams & high school teams.

[CampWest]

Great photography guys. Those of you who live where there are professional sports are so lucky. I don't have any pro sport team where I live in Hawaii so all of my sports photography is of local college teams & high school teams.

On the flip side, I live in Kansas... Just took a trip to Kaua'i in September, and you definitely outscore us on the possibilities for landscape photography, and also water sports like surfing.

So I don't feel too bad for you living in Hawai'i... And of course there is this pesky issue of winters in the midwest... :rolleyes: ;)

[CampWest]

http://home.everestkc.net/wescampbell/PCollection/ka2.jpghttp://home.everestkc.net/wescampbell/PCollection/ka4.jpghttp://home.everestkc.net/wescampbell/PCollection/ka6.jpghttp://home.everestkc.net/wescampbell/PCollection/ka7.jpghttp://home.everestkc.net/wescampbell/PCollection/ka5.jpghttp://home.everestkc.net/wescampbell/PCollection/ka9.jpghttp://home.everestkc.net/wescampbell/PCollection/ka11.jpg


Yeah HSN... its tough for me to feel bad for ya. ;) Tell ya what, anytime you wanna visit KC, I'll hook you up and you can hook me up with a free place to stay in Hawaii. What island do you live on?


On the flip side, I live in Kansas... Just took a trip to Kaua'i in September, and you definitely outscore us on the possibilities for landscape photography, and also water sports like surfing.

So I don't feel too bad for you living in Hawai'i... And of course there is this pesky issue of winters in the midwest... :rolleyes: ;)


I don't have any pro sport team where I live in Hawaii so all of my sports photography is of local college teams & high school teams.

[DenkerCollector]

From the Aflac Game Practices this year. I was able to score a media credential and shot on the field.

All eyes on Harper
http://i295.photobucket.com/albums/mm157/HabertPhotography/aflac%20hr%20derby/IMG_8823.jpg

http://i295.photobucket.com/albums/mm157/HabertPhotography/aflac%20hr%20derby/IMG_8822.jpg

http://i295.photobucket.com/albums/mm157/HabertPhotography/aflac%20hr%20derby/IMG_8724.jpg

http://i295.photobucket.com/albums/mm157/HabertPhotography/aflac%20hr%20derby/IMG_8795.jpg

http://i295.photobucket.com/albums/mm157/HabertPhotography/USD%20VS%20BROWN/IMG_6584.jpg

http://i295.photobucket.com/albums/mm157/HabertPhotography/USD%20VS%20BROWN/IMG_6526.jpg

http://i295.photobucket.com/albums/mm157/HabertPhotography/USD%20VS%20BROWN/IMG_6602.jpg

[ironmanfan]

A shot I took of Cal Jr. taking BP @ Memorial Stadium in April of 1986

http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k172/whhp72/Misc%20Ripken/1rip86-1-1.jpg

[HawaiiSportsNut]

CampWest... Unfortunately my landscape photography is dreadful as hell. I live on the island of Hawaii, and I have never gone to photograph the volcano. Sports photography is my passion even if I am just mediocre at it.

I guess we just gotta make the best out of what we got. :)


On the flip side, I live in Kansas... Just took a trip to Kaua'i in September, and you definitely outscore us on the possibilities for landscape photography, and also water sports like surfing.

So I don't feel too bad for you living in Hawai'i... And of course there is this pesky issue of winters in the midwest... :rolleyes: ;)

[Manram]

These are some really cool photos

[woody1351]

here are a few of my favs.

[MichaelofSF]

Yordano Ventura just tweeted/facebooked a photo I took from ALDS game 2

https://twitter.com/YordanoVentura/status/519290945020231680/photo/1

[3arod13]

I took these 3 pics of Juan Gonzalez in 1993. He signed the middle pic for me. I still have the original negatives.

[gingi79]

My all time favorite Hockey player is Pavel Bure. I've seen him play live in three states and two countries. Far and away the greatest goal I ever saw him score live was against the Islanders . In fact of the top 10 goals of his HOF career, it was ranked #8 here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ktbhTbc1pAo

That fantastic goal is captured here and signed by Pav on the left. My photo of him, from my seats that night entering the ice is on the right.

[BVC]

2004 Playoffs - Houston at Atlanta

Some freaky chance allowed me to capture both of Carlos Beltran's home-runs in mid-swing, and a bonus Berkman:

[BVC]

A few more -
Cincinnati clinches the playoffs in 1990. We were waiting out the rain as the Padres lost (I think it was SD), giving the Reds the division.
Barry Bonds posing for photographs in the on-deck circle. He might have been pumped full of pecs, but he was very camera-friendly that day.
Muhammed Ali at the Chicago National around 2005, talking to the fans, hugging babies, etc. on the way to the signing table - very, very friendly guy.

[metsbats]

Took this photo at Citi field last month.

[Swoboda4]

Don Mattingly Yankee Stadium October 6, 1991. At the same afternoon in Philadelphia, David Cone was striking out everyone. Extremely cold last day of the season. Taken with a Canon AE1. This is a second generation photo, soon I'll dig out the negatives. If anyone knows where they develop negatives anymore I'll give you a first generation copy of your choice. There's others from this day.