Rex Photography
How do I get into sports photography?
I took up photography a little while ago and I absolutely love it. I would like to do sports photography but, to be honest, I have no idea how to go about doing it. Any tips on how to go about building a portfolio and where to start when applying for jobs somewhere - or even what companies to apply to? Thanks.
Public Comments
- Take your camera to a game.
- Unfortunately you have chosen one of the most expensive (equipment wise) fields of photography ... the other is wildlife and nature. You must have a couple of long lenses, 400mm and 600mm come to mind and a couple of professional level camera bodies. Nikon makes a camera just for sports and photojournalists ... the D2h Since only about 20% of my work is sports related, I use my D200's. Shot selection is more important to me than fast continuous firing off of shots. Put together a book with your best shots. Include all the field sports as well as indoor sports like wrestling, basketball, gymnastics, etc. You should have about 10 or 12 images that are absolutly of the highest quality you can make them. Local newspapers are a good place to start. They use contract photographers quite a bit and with a good book they will at least give you a try.
- Get yourself a good camera ,and some really good lenses(2.8 OR BETTER),go to a sporting event (local) non professional with easy access(high school or little league) some where you can set up and not be hassled by security,and start clicking away ,start be very critical of your work and shoot alot of pics,local newspapers are a good shot ,even just the small,you might not make much money but you want exposure and experience.you will not become a overnight success but you can do it ,but it will take some time,i have been doing it for over 15 years now and i would not trade it for anything.
- Start showing up at local games for little league, schools, local adult leagues. Talk to the referees, umpires, etc. to ask permission to shoot. Build your portfolio that way. When you have anough 8X10 of you best pics, go to the local newspaper to be a freelancer or submit a CD to magazines.
