I need help, fast!!

[tactrish]

First time poster here, please bear with me.

We are at the state tourney this weekend and I'm wanting to get some decent shots with my camera. I'm novice at best, but was really hoping for some quick, user friendly advice to improve these pictures. Any help is appreciated!!

Maxxum zoom xi lens, auto focus
Sony DSLR-A330
Exposure 0.008 sec (1/125)
Aperture f/5.6
Focal Length 210 mm
ISO Speed 1600
Exposure Bias 0 EV
Flash Off, Did not fire



Sony DSLR-A330
Exposure 0.01 sec (1/100)
Aperture f/4.5
Focal Length 100 mm
ISO Speed 800
Exposure Bias 0 EV
Flash Off, Did not fire

[jml79]

you're fighting a losing battle. Do you have any faster lenses? if so use them. What mode are you shooting in. I would likely try aperture priority, ISO 1600 and keep the aperture wide open. The camera will then use as fast a shutter as it can. You are going to get some grain and the dynamic range is going to suck but it's the best your going to do in an arena with crappy lighting.

[RichardTaylor]

In addition,
(1) Shoot RAW
(2) Try pushing it when PPing. Try lightening (Layer new + belding mode screen) and then applying some noise reduction.

[taschrief]

Hi,

I agree with needing a faster lens. This was shot with a 135mm f/2, set to f2.8. ISO 1600 and 1/800 second shutter speed. Custom white balance. This is about 1/3 stop underexposed. SOOC .jpg downsized for posting.

I disagree with RAW for sports, unless you have a REALLY DEEP buffer. You will miss too many shots waiting on your camera to catch up.

Ask the coach of your team if you can shoot from the penalty box. You won't have to shoot through glass. If that is unavailable, try the visiting (opposing) team's coach/penalty box. If you are going to shoot from there, YOU MUST KEEP you eye on the game and STAY OUT OF THE WAY!! You, or more importantly, one of the players could be hurt in a brief lapse of attention. If you have to change a lens/card or make anything but minor camera adjustments, GET OUT OT THE BOX.

I hope this helps.

[taschrief]

Second attempt to get the photo up.

[DaveD]

tactrish,

You need fast lenses in any hockey arena and more so in a community rink where lighting is crap. These images were taken with my 80-200 2.8 in RAW and then it takes some post to bring them up to something halfway decent. I also use my mono pod to help support the weight of the lens. It doesn't seem like much at first but after holding it at the 'ready' for 3 periods your arm will be tired.

Take any advantage possible by shooting from the bench or the above the glass if you can reach an area where this is possible.

Cheers,
Dave

1/320
f 3.2
105mm
iso1600


1/250
f 3.2
145mm
iso1600