How can you become a sports photographer? Sports photography ranks as one of the most desired career destinations for budding photographers. Not only do you get free and up-close action to major sports events but you also get to take pretty cool photographs too! So, do you know how to become a sports photographer?

Camera And Equipment

The first thing you will need is a suitable camera and equipment.

To start with, you do not need anywhere near the level of equipment that is used by the professionals. They use digital SLR cameras and the best lenses and such equipment costs thousands of dollars. They also bring laptops or other computer equipment with them wherever they go so that they can quickly upload their photos to whoever wants them.

All you need to begin with is a decent multi-function camera that features interchangeable lenses. My recommendation is for a Canon camera as these are highly respected in the trade. Along with the camera, get yourself a collapsible tripod and a telephoto lens.

Education

If you know next to nothing about photography then I recommend joining a club or a course to find out. It is unlikely to be specifically geared towards sports photography but nevertheless it will still be highly valuable.

In sports photography, much of your work will be action shots that need to be taken with a fast shutter speed. You will often have to track your subjects, especially in highly dynamic sports such as motor racing. Knowing how to use the basic functions of a camera such as aperture and shutter speed is an absolute necessity.

Starting Out

At the beginning, you won't be able to gain access to the biggest sporting events and it is unlikely that you will be able to produce the highest quality shots demanded by agencies and newspapers anyway.

Your best bet is to start locally. Find local sports teams and offer to take photographs for them for free. This will enable you to develop your techniques and build a good portfolio in order to showcase your talents.

Agencies

When you think your work is of a good enough standard, you can start to work with agencies.

Newspapers do not usually wish to deal directly with photographers except for a select few that they may have on their books. Mostly, they will depend on agencies who effectively act as middlemen between the freelance photographers and the print (and Internet) media.