First basketball game tonight

Hello,

Going to try shooting my first HS basketball game tonight. It's a big gym and will be packed. Thnking I would be most comfortable on the track above most of the stands. I don't want to squeeze in with a bunch of students. Any thoughts on using a downward angle? Also plan to start with 3200 ISO and 500 SS as suggested here, Plan to use my 70-200 F4 IS. F2.8 would have been nice for this, but oh well. Any advice would be appreciated, expecially on shooting down at the floor. Thanks.

I'm sorry to say this, but I doubt you'll be able to get 1/500 w f4 even at 3200 ISO. I'm going to guess 1/250 max. You can still get some good pics at 1/250 just choose your spots wisely. I would recommend getting as close to court side as possible and in the corner if you can't get floor access. At least then, you can get the player's eyes in the shot.

I would avoid downward angles. Getting on the floor or front row is ideal. Get there early.
I really doubt f/4 will cut it.

Thanks, guys. Maybe my Tamron 17-50 2.8 would be a better choice if I can get close. Have a crop camera.

It's possible that your 17-50 at 2.8 would be the better option. Try to get onto the floor and shoot at the long end of that lens. Let us know how it works out for you.

dave

I also have a $25 nifty-fifty wihout autofocus (thus the price). I may try it as well but I have a feeling autofocus is a must for this kind of thing. I'm more of a landscape/architecture​/take-your-time guy so this should be a learning experience.