Whether you’re covering the U.S. Open or snapping a friendly match at the local court, Tennis is a sport that offers plenty of opportunities to capture exciting action while fine-tuning your picture-taking timing. It’s all about knowing the game—and keeping your eyes on the ball.
What you need:
- A digital SLR or fast Mirrorless Compact
- A telephoto zoom lens (70-200mm is a good range)
Sit as close to courtside as you can without interfering play. Start by photographing the serve. The two most interesting parts of the serve are the toss, which show the athlete poised to strike, and the smash, where the server makes contact with the ball. Observe the server a few times to get the timing, so when you shoot, you will get what you want. The smash happens fast!
The volley is more challenging to photograph, as the players are moving around. The key for photographers—as well as for players—is to keep an eye on the ball. Focus on one player, and wait for the ball to come to him. Use focus tracking and a fast shutter speed, and burst mode if necessary. Sit at courtside, near the net if possible, so you can easily switch from one side to the other. Use a zoom lens; 70-200mm on an SLR is ideal.
The great thing about Tennis is that if you go to a major event such as the U.S. Open or even something more locally, if you stay clear of the key matches there is plenty of action on the side courts, and you should be able to get as close to the action as the pro photographers. In fact, in less important matches on side courts you won’t have to jostle with the pros to get into good position courtside. The winning shots you capture may be worth the price of admission!
