Tips for low-light sports shots with sx20is

[wgustaf]

Can anyone give me any tips on taking pictures of karate tournaments that seem to be always held in hotel banquet halls with low light? I had a s3is before and never had this many problems getting decent pictures. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

[denncald]

The "old" S3 had a 12x optical zoom with the widest lens opening (f stop) of f/3.5 at max zoom - 432mm. The "new" SX20 has a 20x optical zoom with the widest opening of f/5.7 at the max 560mm. The "old" lens was faster than the "new" lens,meaning it could let in more light when fully zoomed for max reach.

To add more light, you will have to use a higher ISO, and/or get closer so you zoom less for your desired shot. You could also try only zooming part way, and crop your shot when you get home. This might let in more light so the image is better, and then you have something better to crop.

Dennis

[wgustaf]

Thank you Dennis, I will definitely try that.