Pixiq

Using a Compact Digital Camera

You can have a lot of fun at sporting events with a compact camera, but you will probably have to move around the periphery of the playing field to anticipate critical moments or wait for the action to come to you. A typical 10 – 14 megapixel compact camera might have a built-in zoom that provides the equivalent of a 35 – 140mm lens on a film camera, giving a modest wide-angle to short telephoto range.

If shooting JPEGs, set the highest resolution and best quality available. You can then usually crop to close in on the action and still have an image file big enough to make an acceptable print. You are, in effect, creating your own digital zoom on the computer.

Using a DSLR

However, nothing less than a D-SLR will do if you want to emulate professional sports photographers. It offers a number of advantages beyond the capability to use very long focal length lenses, including generally higher resolution for larger crops, more exposure options for tricky lighting situations, and continuous shooting with faster burst rates. However, the weight and length of some telephoto lenses means you may have to use a monopod or tripod, and obtain permission from some venues for using this equipment.