The secret to taking quality pictures has been to pick the right time. While it may be simple, it is extremely tough when taking images of a fast-paced sport such as baseball. How do you take an image of a batter without distorting its pixels? Well, it might sound easy; taking an image and using the best photo retouching service to improve it, but it will still fall short of epic baseball photos. It all lies down to your position and the camera you are using. It would pose a rookie move having to take images from a location that doesn’t cover a wide view of the stadium. Here are some tips to help you take a quality baseball photo.
Consider using a wide angle lens
Before taking any images, explore how to use a wide angle lens. This will allow you to figure out how to focus your images. When taking baseball pictures, ensure you are seated at the back. In case you are seated at a low area, try picking a seat at the highest point. This will allow you to have a broader view of the field. Once you are comfortable, choose an aperture ranging from f 5.6 to f 16; this will allow you to have a deeper depth of field. It is noteworthy though that the higher the number, the sharper an image will be. Lastly, ensure to place your camera on a monopod, this will help minimize the movement of the camera.
Zoom when you want to capture the Nitti gritty details
Capturing the finer details will require you to zoom in on any action taking place. In most instances, you might need a telephoto, typically a 300 mm to help you zoom on game action. However, this is all dependent on where you are seated. When separating players; consider using a shallow depth, usually f 2.8 to f 5.6. In case you want to take portraits of a player while in action, you can try cropping it tightly and capturing it while playing or making a move.
Freeze to capture the right action
When photographing any fast-moving event, you need to freeze the action. Baseball, being a fast-paced sport, qualifies for freezing. One way to achieve this is by using higher shutter speed. To achieve this, switch the mode dial to manual (m) and place it at a shutter speed of 1/500th of a sec. In case you are using the widest aperture and it fails to give you optimum shutter speed, you can choose to increase the ISO. This will allow more light to enter, hence enabling you to use a variety of combinations to achieve the ideal shutter speed. Though at night it may sound difficult, enough lighting from the stadium should prove adequate for quality images.
Pan to create motion
Of all steps, this technique is the most challenging. However, seating at the right spot can help you lessen the troubles since it will provide you with a variety of panning shots. While you can pan a player when moving around the bases, you should be aware that when shooting, you will have less time than usual. You will have to pre-focus on the player before he hits the ball. To perfect this step, you need to practice while your finger is placed on the focus and keeping your camera on your preferred subject. Remember, after shooting, follow the player to capture the second. For the second image using a shutter speed of 1/8 to 1/60 of a sec.
Conclusion
Taking quality images requires skill and practice. Using a wide angle lens can help you solve 90 percent of all your problems. With the right position, you are sure to capture all the action with a single shot. Lastly, understanding how to use shutter speed can help you perfect on your image output.
Author: Mike Trout
John Mike Trout is an American Professional Baseball player. He was born California. John Mike is a 2 MLB All-Star. He loves to write about baseball.
