rsn
Senior Member
So I volunteered for a province wide 55+ years BC Games "sporting" events and have been given a few assignments, some I am comfortable with but "Table Tennis" is not my thing. The games in the past have used volunteers and they say they get between 25 and two hundred useable images. The photographer takes the photo, the images are turned into a location where others edit the provided images, the reason for this procedure is quick timing of posting images. I will do a copy and paste of suggestions from DeepSeek (AI) and the results seem pretty reasonable. If anyone here has any other suggestions, I'm open to it.
The logical camera to use that I own is the Canon 7D mk 2 but I am still learning it and it doesn't have as good a high ISO performance so I am leaning towards my 5D mk 4.
And now to the DeepSeek copy and paste:
"Capturing compelling table tennis photographs requires a blend of technical expertise, the right equipment, and creative vision. Here’s a detailed guide to help you excel in this dynamic genre of sports photography.
1. Essential Equipment Recommendations
Camera Bodies: Use DSLR or mirrorless cameras with strong high-ISO performance (e.g., Canon EOS 90D, Sony a6400, or professional models like Nikon D750) to handle low-light indoor venues without excessive noise .
Lenses: Prioritize fast lenses with wide apertures (f/2.8 or wider) to allow more light and enable faster shutter speeds. Ideal choices include:
85mm f/1.8 for crisp, close shots .
70-200mm f/2.8 for versatility in framing .
50mm f/1.8 as a budget-friendly option, though it requires being close to the action .
High Frame Rate (FPS): For video or sequence shots, use cameras capable of at least 120fps, though 240fps or higher is ideal for smooth slow-motion playback .
2. Optimal Camera Settings
Shutter Speed: Set to 1/500s or faster to freeze the ball and players’ rapid movements .
Aperture: Use the widest setting (e.g., f/1.8–2.8) to maximize light intake and create background blur, which helps isolate subjects .
ISO: Adjust based on lighting—start at ISO 1600–3200 for typical indoor venues, but test to avoid graininess .
Focus Mode: Enable Continuous Autofocus (AF-C/AI Servo) to track moving players and the ball. Use back-button focusing for better control .
Burst Mode: Shoot in continuous high-speed mode (e.g., 10fps) to capture split-second moments .
3. Composition and Framing Techniques
Anticipate the Action: Use your knowledge of the game to predict key moments, like powerful loops or decisive saves .
Vary Angles and Perspectives:
Shoot from low angles to emphasize intensity and height .
Try tight crops on players’ faces, serves, or the ball hovering above the head for unique shots .
Include contextual elements like spectators, coaches, or the Olympic rings to add narrative depth .
Creative Techniques:
Motion Blur: Pan with the player at slower shutter speeds (e.g., 1/60s) to convey speed .
Multiple Exposures: Combine sequences in-camera to show ball trajectory and movement .
4. Practical Tips for Shooting Table Tennis
Positioning: Station yourself court-side, ideally near the forehand corner for right-handed players, to capture impactful shots .
Lighting Challenges: Overcome dim indoor lighting with high ISO settings, wide apertures, and lenses optimized for low light .
Remote and Unconventional Setups: For innovative angles, place cameras in remote locations (e.g., under the table or high above) and trigger them wirelessly .
Post-Processing: Crop images to improve composition and reduce empty space. Use noise reduction tools for high-ISO shots .
5. Advanced Creative Strategies
Freeze the Ball: Time your shot to capture the ball precisely at contact with the paddle or table .
Storytelling Shots: Include emotional reactions, celebrations, or interactions between players to add depth .
Reflections and Environments: Use reflective surfaces like polished floors or windows to create visually striking compositions .
Example Camera Setups from Pros:
Photographer Camera Lens Key Settings
Mal Anderson Nikon F3 85mm Pre-focus on zones, burst mode
Truong Tu Nikon D750 70-200mm f/2.8 Manual mode, 1/500s, continuous AF
Steve Hopkins Canon Rebel XTI 85mm f/1.8 Manual focus, anticipate tactics"
The logical camera to use that I own is the Canon 7D mk 2 but I am still learning it and it doesn't have as good a high ISO performance so I am leaning towards my 5D mk 4.
And now to the DeepSeek copy and paste:
"Capturing compelling table tennis photographs requires a blend of technical expertise, the right equipment, and creative vision. Here’s a detailed guide to help you excel in this dynamic genre of sports photography.
1. Essential Equipment RecommendationsCamera Bodies: Use DSLR or mirrorless cameras with strong high-ISO performance (e.g., Canon EOS 90D, Sony a6400, or professional models like Nikon D750) to handle low-light indoor venues without excessive noise .
Lenses: Prioritize fast lenses with wide apertures (f/2.8 or wider) to allow more light and enable faster shutter speeds. Ideal choices include:
85mm f/1.8 for crisp, close shots .
70-200mm f/2.8 for versatility in framing .
50mm f/1.8 as a budget-friendly option, though it requires being close to the action .
High Frame Rate (FPS): For video or sequence shots, use cameras capable of at least 120fps, though 240fps or higher is ideal for smooth slow-motion playback .
2. Optimal Camera SettingsShutter Speed: Set to 1/500s or faster to freeze the ball and players’ rapid movements .
Aperture: Use the widest setting (e.g., f/1.8–2.8) to maximize light intake and create background blur, which helps isolate subjects .
ISO: Adjust based on lighting—start at ISO 1600–3200 for typical indoor venues, but test to avoid graininess .
Focus Mode: Enable Continuous Autofocus (AF-C/AI Servo) to track moving players and the ball. Use back-button focusing for better control .
Burst Mode: Shoot in continuous high-speed mode (e.g., 10fps) to capture split-second moments .
3. Composition and Framing TechniquesAnticipate the Action: Use your knowledge of the game to predict key moments, like powerful loops or decisive saves .
Vary Angles and Perspectives:
Shoot from low angles to emphasize intensity and height .
Try tight crops on players’ faces, serves, or the ball hovering above the head for unique shots .
Include contextual elements like spectators, coaches, or the Olympic rings to add narrative depth .
Creative Techniques:
Motion Blur: Pan with the player at slower shutter speeds (e.g., 1/60s) to convey speed .
Multiple Exposures: Combine sequences in-camera to show ball trajectory and movement .
4. Practical Tips for Shooting Table TennisPositioning: Station yourself court-side, ideally near the forehand corner for right-handed players, to capture impactful shots .
Lighting Challenges: Overcome dim indoor lighting with high ISO settings, wide apertures, and lenses optimized for low light .
Remote and Unconventional Setups: For innovative angles, place cameras in remote locations (e.g., under the table or high above) and trigger them wirelessly .
Post-Processing: Crop images to improve composition and reduce empty space. Use noise reduction tools for high-ISO shots .
5. Advanced Creative StrategiesFreeze the Ball: Time your shot to capture the ball precisely at contact with the paddle or table .
Storytelling Shots: Include emotional reactions, celebrations, or interactions between players to add depth .
Reflections and Environments: Use reflective surfaces like polished floors or windows to create visually striking compositions .
Example Camera Setups from Pros:Photographer Camera Lens Key Settings
Mal Anderson Nikon F3 85mm Pre-focus on zones, burst mode
Truong Tu Nikon D750 70-200mm f/2.8 Manual mode, 1/500s, continuous AF
Steve Hopkins Canon Rebel XTI 85mm f/1.8 Manual focus, anticipate tactics"
