DC United vs Chelsea FC - soccer game

Sigma 10-20mm f/4-5.6 EX DC HSM for Canon

07/28/2005 10:18:45 AM · #1

So, I'm going to this soccer game this evening, and it'll be the first professional game I've ever been to. Fortunately this game is in America, where soccer fans are not insane and crazy like in other parts of the world (no offense), so I don't have to worry about getting crushed or something.
But here's the question... what are some of the things to really look for during to game to photograph? Obviously the kickoffs and goals, but can someone from a soccer-crazed area please provide some advise on this particular event for me? I promise to share at least some of my photos, and maybe I'll even come up with something to either enter or sell.

Thanks,
-Steve

cbonsall

Canon EOS-350D Rebel XT

07/28/2005 10:28:05 AM · #2

high balls leading to a couple of guys trying to fight for the header always look good and defensive walls always create humorous genital protecting moments

Konador

Canon EOS-500D Rebel T1i

Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS

07/28/2005 10:33:34 AM · #3

I wouldn't bother with the kick-off, that's boring! If there's a goal (no doubt Chelsea will get a few!) try to focus not only on the player who scored, but on the faces of the opposing team, who will no doubt look upset. That can lead to some quite emotional pictures. Also, slide tackles and mid-air collisions are good action shot potentials. The Chelsea manager, José Murhinio, is always very active and eccentric down in the manager's area, so try getting some good shot of him (always a hit with the ladies!).

cpanaioti

Canon EOS-40D

Canon EF 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 DO IS USM

07/28/2005 10:39:12 AM · #4

Check out the latest sports challenge. There were several 'fight for the header' shots.

UNCLEBRO

Canon EOS-30D

Tamron SP AF 28-75mm f/2.8 XR Di for Canon

07/28/2005 11:02:31 AM · #5

The hustle and bustle in the penalty area is always good whenever there is a corner.

Canon EF 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 DO IS USM

07/28/2005 11:14:15 AM · #6

I shall do my best... I wouldn't have thought of some of these for photos... please keep them coming. thanks.

-Steve

WaysOfSeeing

Canon EOS-400D Rebel XTi

Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II

07/28/2005 11:17:13 AM · #7

What's Soccer? Is that the thing that Manchester United now have to play? :)

cpanaioti

Canon EOS-40D

07/28/2005 11:17:14 AM · #8

Anticipation. Whenever there's a set piece, especially around the penalty area you can usually guess where the ball's going to go.

Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM

07/28/2005 11:25:49 AM · #9

Originally posted by WaysOfSeeing:

What's Soccer? Is that the thing that Manchester United now have to play? :)

Yes... we call that soccer. Football is played with a pointy brown ball; soccer is played with a round B/W ball.

-Steve

geewhy

Canon EOS-1D Mark III

07/28/2005 11:27:55 AM · #10

I take pics from games for my team`s website and programme.
I`ve only been doing it for a short time & am still learning the basics..however,I think what has been mentioned in previous posts is pretty much spot on.
Timing is very important..and although I don`t do it as often as I should,having your camera set on continuous shooting,anticipating the action and firing off multiple shots usually gets you something worthwhile.
I also try to concentrate on getting something slightly different like a bit jersey tugging or players arguing etc..as it adds variety.

Most importantly..make sure your shutter speed is able to cope with the action...keep checking regularly as a slight difference in the quality of the light can alter your settings enough to start introducing blur.
Would be interested to see how you got on...so please post your pics.
Good luck.

PeterC

Canon EOS-7D

Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS

07/28/2005 11:31:25 AM · #11

Get a team shot of Chelsea and you can enter it under the Affluence challenge as representing a Billionaires new Toy

fredluvsHim

Fujifilm FinePix S5000 Z

07/28/2005 11:33:07 AM · #12

the goalies are pretty good to watch for too...especially when there's a scuffle in the box! if you can get some throw-ins (i'm not sure how many, this is professional) but from a player for 13 years, a flip-throw is awesome! you can get some pretty sweet shots. otherwise, listen to the others...