on location Capture an action sequence
Learn how to get your gear set up for rapid-fire action sequence photographs
01 Steady camera
Our photos all need to be in perfect alignment as it’ll make the frames easier to blend in Photoshop. So we need a tripod to keep the camera still. A remote release is also useful, as it means we don’t have to touch the camera during the sequence.
02 USE a reflector
On a bright sunny day like this a reflector will help to bounce a bit of light back into the shadows on the subject. Check with them beforehand to make sure it’s not too blinding – we don’t want it to cause a wipe out at a crucial moment!
03 Pre-focus on the Spot
Fast-moving subjects can be a challenge for autofocus. If we know where the subject is going to be, then we can ask them to stand in the crucial spot beforehand so we can pre-focus. Then we switch to manual focus to lock it in place.
04 Shoot from Side-on
Try to visualize how the subject will look when in multiple positions throughout the frame. A side-on view of the action is usually best as there’s less overlap between shots. Compose loosely to give yourself extra space if necessary.
05 USE a low camera angle
A low camera angle will help to emphasize the height of jumps and air time. It also lets us minimize the amount of ground in the frame and enables us to frame the subject against the expanse of clear blue sky for a simple, vibrant backdrop.
06 Show the Story
A sequence photo is like a short story and like all the best stories it should have a beginning, middle and end. Frame up so that you can see where your subject is coming from, what they’re going to go over, and where they will land.