>>2682128so I've shot many sports events and here are a few things I've picked up that have helped me get better shots.
first, the number one thing to improve your shots is to MOVE! you can't expect to "follow the action" if you're standing in one place. you can compensate for your shitty focal length by moving ahead of the ball and predicting when it will come closer to you. this leads into my next point of advice.
learn how the game works. it is essential that you understand how the game functions and what to expect in certain situations. for soccer in this case learn when certain players get the ball. most teams have a star or a player that touches the ball way more often so understand that and expect certain things to happen. if the ball is moving down a certain sideline most of the game make it a point to shoot along that one.
always have the team you're shooting be coming towards you. this kind of ties in with moving around because you need to haul your ass downfield if you think the attacking will be coming your way. an easy way to avoid this is to post up in a corner of the attacking side and just wait a little, the players will eventually .
fill the frame as much as you can. yes people care about the action in the photo but it quickly becomes a shitty photo when you have so much empty space on either side of the subjects. compose so you can fill the frame with as much action as possible. this is probably the most difficult thing to do because it requires a little but of luck but if you keep it in your mind a few good shots will come your way.
lastly, be patient. you cant shoot the whole field at once so just be patient and wait for moments to come to you. don't get trigger happy with burst because often times a timed double tap of the shutter will result in much better shot than if you let the burst go off for a few seconds.
good luck anon and hopefully your next shoot is better :)