Understanding and keeping in touch with the game is vital. Reading the situation and anticipating what may happen is the key.
One of David’s quintessential captures was of Serena Williams at the Australian Open in 2007. As David tells the story
Serena is always at her best when she is intense and fighting with herself. Add a few poor line calls and mix it with a little 55 degree Celsius centre court heat and prepare to watch her simmer. This is not the time to take your eye and your camera too far from the “stove.” Experience tells you that when she boils she doesn't simply erupt - she explodes. A few games on and that's just what she did - and David was ready to capture her reaction to the winning return.
Equipment has to work with you and not against you in these demanding situations. In this presentation David will explain his choices of gear and operation that enable him to capture award winning images in the high pressure field of top tier sports photography. If you have ever been to the tennis you will always notice a large contingent of court side photographers with the ubiquitous large white Canon Lenses. There is a reason for this and David will share his unique knowledge and experience of using the best tools in the industry.
David says one of the better lessons he took away from working alongside some of the most respected photographers in the game was that great pictures just don't happen by chance. They are the result of some astute preliminary observations. In sport, it's about observation, anticipation, and timing…and of course the parking…but that's for another story!
David Callow is an Australian freelance photographer who has been shooting assignments for both national and international magazine and newspaper groups for over 25 years.