Sports & Entertainment Photography

This advanced module delves into the fast-paced, high-pressure world of sports and entertainment photography, where timing, technical precision, and storytelling are paramount. You’ll gain a clear understanding of professional-level equipment, from cameras and lenses to essential accessories, and learn how features such as high burst rates, advanced autofocus, spot metering and image stabilisation support decisive moments in demanding environments.

Through real-world case studies spanning newspaper sports assignments and long-form music projects, the module connects camera skills with editorial thinking, visual narrative and professional workflow. You’ll refine your approach to action, portraits, live performance, and environmental imagery, while also learning how to prepare portfolios, access press opportunities, and sell your work across various media, publishing, and stock platforms, positioning you for sustainable growth in the sports and entertainment photography industries.

Sports & Entertainment Photography Advanced Module

Create polished photographs of action sports, live performances and events!

Develop the skills needed to respond quickly, anticipate key moments and work confidently in fast-paced environments. Discover the ideal camera settings and visual storytelling techniques to produce strong, publish-ready images across sport and entertainment. Every lesson reflects industry practice, preparing you to shoot confidently at events and performances while developing a portfolio ready for publication and professional opportunities.

Yachting images by #pistudent Christopher Scholey Image Source: #PIstudent Christopher Scholey

Module Topics

In this module, we will cover the following topics and beyond:

Introduction
Essential Equipment
Cameras, Lenses & Accessories
Useful Features
High Burst Rates
Dual Memory Card Slots
Build and Weather-Sealing
Auto Focus
Spot Metering
Choosing the Lens
Wide Angle to Medium Telephoto Zoom Lens
Medium to Long Telephoto Zoom Lens
Long Telephoto Zoom Lens
Essential Accessories
The Tripod
The Monopod
Wireless Shutter Release
Image Stabilisation
Protective Lens & Camera Covers
Case Study One: Newspaper Sports Shoot
One Camera, One Lens
Reporter’s Note Book
The Five W’s & One H
The Key Shot
Adding Colour
Portraits of the Competitors
Associated Personnel
The Crowd
Essential Camera Skills
Reasons for the Rejection Slip
Learn the Rules
Hand Holding a Camera
Focusing a Camera
One Shot
AI Servo (Continuous Focusing)

AI Focus
Back Button Focus (BBF)
Using Manual Focus Mode
Choosing the ISO
Setting the White Balance
Using the Right Exposure Mode
Getting an Accurate Exposure Reading
Selecting the Shutter Speed
Panning with the Action
Case Study Two: Music Book Project
Having an Idea
Finding Financial Backing
Writing the Proposal
Timing it Right
Meeting the Publisher
Preparing for Changes
The Photography
Studio & Location Instrument Images
Portraits of Musicians
Environmental Portraits of Instrument Makers
Live Performance Images
Launching the Book
Selling Sports & Entertainment Photographs
Tomorrow the World
Join the Club
PI Student Theatre Photographer
Work your Way Up
PI Graduate Music Photographer
Prepare your Portfolio
Get a Press Pass
Magazines, Newspapers & Websites
Stock Image Libraries
A Picture Paints a Thousand Words
Appendix: Book Proposal Outline
Book Proposal Outline

Module Outcomes

By completing the Sports & Entertainment Photography Advanced Module, you will:

Master capture techniques, including autofocus, burst rates, and exposure control for fast-moving subjects.
Choose and use the right lenses and accessories for action, performance, and event photography.
Capture compelling images that tell a story, from live sports to concerts and behind-the-scenes moments.
Prepare and present a professional portfolio for media, publishing, and stock opportunities.
Understand workflows, editorial thinking, and industry practices to succeed in sports and entertainment photography.

Ready to deliver striking action shots and inspiring entertainment event images?

The Sports & Entertainment Photography Advanced Module is available exclusively to students enroled in our online Photography Course. You’ll also receive a free six-month course extension and the support of a dedicated tutor who will guide you through the module and help you apply the lessons to your own sports & entertainment photography journey.

This module builds the technical, creative and editorial skills, ensuring you can deliver under pressure. Every lesson reflects industry practice, preparing you to shoot confidently at sports events and performances while developing a portfolio ready for publication and professional opportunities.