Sports Photographers

Sports photographers work in an exciting environment that is constantly changing depending on their assignments. One day they may work in the bleachers at a hockey game, and the next day they may roam the sidelines of a soccer match in the driving rain. One thing to note about sports photographers' work environment is the risk of injury. Their close proximity to the playing field means that sports photographers have to be extremely careful when trying to get close enough for the best shots. The work entails continual attention to the game along with attention to their equipment and photographic settings as well as awareness of their environment. For example, they may be concentrating deeply on capturing a great moment of a football game and must be able to move themselves and their expensive equipment if a 275-pound linebacker is suddenly heading their way.

In addition to shooting on location, sports photographers also spend time at computers, editing and transmitting photos to their employers. Self-employed photographers work out of their own offices or home studios and spend part of their time marketing their work and negotiating contract terms.