Wrestling Shots

[GadgetRick]

So trying to hone my skills to shoot my son's wrestling matches (he is just starting this year, he's 7) as well as jiu jitsu tournaments I compete in. Here are a few shots from a wrestling match the other night. Do you think the shots are too noisy? I shot at 800 ISO on my Nikon D50 with my 18-200mm Sigma (had aperture open all the way--f3.5-f6.1) and 1/125 shutter speed and flash. I need to get faster glass (I know) but it's just not in the budget at the moment.

[Chip]

Nice set. I like that you were down at floor level when taking these. And I like the intensity you captured in the 3rd one.

[chrean]

Even though it's a very nice set, I believe that - as you said - you would capture even nicer shots with a faster lens.
You took out the best off your lens, imho.

[pjflan7]

with gym light you have to bump up the ISO...really no choice....you froze the action nicely though

[leonaashlee]

These are really good action shots....well done

[GadgetRick]

Originally Posted by chrean

Even though it's a very nice set, I believe that - as you said - you would capture even nicer shots with a faster lens.
You took out the best off your lens, imho.

Thanks. I'm trying to save to get something better. I'm practicing because I plan to shoot more events (I'm also involved in the MMA world here in NJ) and maybe (one day) make a few bucks to support my habit. I know all of the promoters so I just have to hone my skills and create a nice portfolio. Unfortunately, I'm hampered by my budget and the lens I'm using.

I'm afraid to go any higher on the ISO as I already see the noise creeping in there. I'm looking at some noise reduction software but, so far, not promising for these shots. Still playing with it though.

[GadgetRick]

Originally Posted by Chip

Nice set. I like that you were down at floor level when taking these. And I like the intensity you captured in the 3rd one.

Yes, I like to get facial expressions when I can--especially in this kind of sport. Really tells a story (imo). Unfortunately, most of them were facing the other way when they had good expressions. My son was sitting in the bleachers behind me so I was keeping an eye on him as well so I couldn't roam around the mat like I wanted to.

[kgb224]

Outstanding set of pictures captured by you.