Swim Photography Experiment

– Quillota Swimming Championships –

This would be my first time ever photographing a swimming competition. The night before, I did a lot of research on how on the topic because I did not have any ideas. I read blogs, watched videos, and searched for photos to learn the basics of swim photography. My biggest concern is the water reflections from the sun’s rays that can cause a lot of problems with the photos. I will try to do my best with the information I have learned.

Supporting Javiera and Pedro in their swim competition is the reason I wanted to try photographing the sport in the first place. I also saw several of my former students including Carla, Any, Antonia, and Ivan when I arrived. I spoke with the event director to receive permission to stay inside the pool fence because there are a lot of people. Griselle, thanks for give me approval to do so.

– The Championship –

It seems the weather might be in my favor when I got up this morning as it was cloudy. However, it only a few hours and the it was sunny all day. I was having several problems with using the correct camera settings because my were not turning out well. I spoke with another photographer at the competition who had more experience with photographing swimming. He gave me some good advice and I improved little by little throughout the day. It was super difficult to photograph swimming. Especially, trying to get a good photo when the swimmer’s face is out of the water. A lot of luck is involved in the process because you never know know which side the swimmers are going turn their head in order to breathe. A lot of patience is necessary.

I believe I took some great photos of the crowd. The crowd is just as important and they show a lot of natural emotions. I was unable to stay until the end because I had to go to Quilpué for a wedding. It seems that I had some success in photographing the championship as I have 150 final photos!

– Family / Friends / Students –

Javiera and Pedro did an excellent job. It was great screaming in support for them. The two of them won several medals. I was happy to be part of their achievements.

Carla did a good job too. However, I missed both of her events when I spoke to the other photographer for advice on camera settings. Sorry Carla, please forgive me. Next time I will be sure to photograph your events.

When Any swam in her first event, I was confused in the middle of the competition and I took pictures of the other girl. Both of them wore similar bathing suits. Grrr! However, I was able to take photos of her in her other event and I got a great profile photo of her when she finished.

I also had the opportunity to take pictures of Antonia. However, it was only one event, but one is better than nothing.

Next time, everyone has to get my attention to let me know they are about to swim; yell out: Hey Dara! I am going to swim now. Anyways, congratulations to everyone!

– Final Thought –

I would like to try to photograph another swimming championship to improve my skills. If you know of another swimming championship, please let me know. Without a doubt, photographing swimming is super difficult, but I hope to overcome my weaknesses and take better swim photos. I hope you like my first endeavor to photography swimming.