Olympic Photographers Peter Read Miller and Damian Strohmeyer Share How to Take the Perfect Action Shot
Photographers Peter Read Miller and Damian Strohmeyer have captured just about every major sporting event you can think of, including the Olympics, World Series, World Cup and the Super Bowl. They are also Canon Explorers of Light, a program created in 1995 to highlight outstanding photographers and to teach upcoming photographers.
Miller and Strohmeyer know what it takes to capture an amazing action shot and they’ve agreed to share some of their tips with me. Here’s their tips.
Photographers need to research the sport to get the perfect action shot. Credit: Peter Read Miller
Do your research
Take some time before you go to a particular event to gain a better perspective of the venue and its do’s and don’ts. For example:
Is the event indoor or outdoor?
What type of equipment can you bring?
What access will you have as a non-accredited photographer?
Is there a way to work-around some of these restrictions?
Doing your research can have you well prepared for that perfect shot and can keep others from being irritated with you. “Being kind and courteous always helps,” says Miller.
Know What You’re Watching
Much like knowing the venue, it helps to know about the sport or event you’re shooting. “Whether it’s skiing, hockey or figure skating, having some knowledge of the sport or event, what countries are competing and the players will help you anticipate when and where the crucial moments will occur,” said Strohmeyer. The more you know the better your pictures will be.
The glass is always half full
You’re not a professional photographer, and you most likely won’t have the access they get. Still, act like a pro and problem solve like they would and plan what images you would like to capture.
For example, the moment could be a shot of someone at the finish line of the downhill skiing event or at the end of their figure skating routine. Give yourself an assignment as if you were a pro. “Understanding where you are and using that will help you make the most of what is in-frame and guide you to capture the best image possible. Work with what you’ve been given,” Miller advises.
Travel light, but use a good lense to get up-close shots like this. Credit: Damian Strohmeyer
Travel light
Accredited photographer or not, you never want to be in the way of a spectator’s view of the action. Only bring one or two lenses and pick the ones that you believe will allow you to capture a wide variety of shots. Some examples of versatile lenses for action shots, according to Strohmeyer include:
Sigma 120–300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM “Sports” lens
Sigma 50–100mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art lens
Canon EF 70–200mm f/2.8L USM lens
Canon EF 24–70mm f/2.8L II USM lens
Tamron 70–200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 lens
Also, if you have one, bring a tele-convertor to extend the zoom range and keep your load lighter.
Cropping and Framing
The file size of most modern DSLRs will allow for plenty of cropping. Instead of shooting too tight and running the risk of cutting of an arm or legs (a big no-no), shoot a little looser and then crop, then crop again, then step away for a few minutes and come back and crop again.
These tips should get you on your way to taking quick shots that are crisp and clear.
