problems with photographing swim meet

This is a location / settings and environment problem. It isn't an equipment problem. These phots were taken with a pentax k3 and an old promaster 100-300 variable lens, this isn't a cutting edge sports kit. But these are outdoor, good light and deck access. I also get low. The OP is shooting down on the subject through a window.

If you can't get access during the meet i would recommend getting some shots after practice. These shots could have been captured in any pool with lane lines. You do lose the the atmosphere... I have those photos but selected these as an option without competitors

As far as settings 1/500 is fast enough and it will freeze the water drops. I use single point focus. These would be jpg and cropped

As mentioned most of the action is underwater. This is why getting close to the deck improves the photos you can get the face.

I used to shoot volleyball (fast, indoor, artificial lighting sports, obstructed frequently (net) ) and also surfing (waves, water splash obstruction). So here are some ideas that may or may not apply

- ISO 3200-6400 is normal. Reduce noise in post.

- Use anti-flicker for fluorescent lighting.

- Does face detect work? I don't know since I don't have mirrorless. I do shoot surfing where there is a lot of waves etc. I use only single AF point with 4 supporting AF point to avoid AF confusion. Since you are tracking the person underwater it should be fine as you can predice when and where they come up.

- F2.8 zoom is kind of minimum for faster action. Can try prime lens for even faster.

- Not sure this would work in swimming but I also used MF on fixed action location where there is usually interesting aciton.

- Shooting with action coming towards you generally works better with the AF.

- No idea on the glass issue other than reflections. For through glasss I generally try to get the lens as close to the glass as possible and cover up the edges to prevent reflections. Circular polarizer can also remove reflections but it will lose you some light.

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I have not used a7IV but A9II and A1 70-200/2.8 are great for swim. I shoot from the deck though as the quality and perspective (low) is more desirable. Can you get a pass to get on deck?

Sorry just noticed it’s an old post from Jan 22 - not clicked into 2023 mode!

Hi, I shoot indoor swimming with Sony kit. I agree with Bill Ferris’s comments. Happy to answer more questions if you still need a year later. I’m on Instagram if you want to take a look.