I took these photos at a synchronized skating competition. I found it really difficult to get good photos in this type of situation. I use a Rebel xs with the 18-55mm lens that came with it. Any comments would be helpful. :) Thanks!
What film speed are you shooting at? You want a faster speed, 800 or 1600, and then you want the aperture speed to be at least 125 to get the quick movement. Play with that and see how it goes. You may need to use manual setting to make that happen.
I've always found arenas hard to shoot in. They usually look bright, but I find I can't get enough light to capture the 'freeze frame' I'm usually looking for.
That said, here's my advice.
On the XS, you should be able to change your ISO setting. I'd make sure it is at least 800. You'll get a bit more noise, but you'll be able to get a faster shutter speed.
As well, I'm guessing that your lens is very similar to mine, about F3.5 at 18mm, and 5.6 at 55mm. I'd do most of your shooting at 18mm, and use software to crop the image down to exactly what you want. Make sure you are shooting at the highest possible resolution you have available. I think it is probably 'L' and 'fine' or 'superfine' on the XS.
High ISO, Widest Aperature, and then fast shutter speed. If you have a continuous autofocus mode, use that so it follows your subject. If you are still having difficulty indoors, your camera / lens are limiting you.
Sorry if you've come across all the following already, but building on what has already been said:
Check out pgs 50, 57, 60 - 63,70 of your manual.
Check Amazon or your local bookstore for
Digital Sports Photography: Take Winning Shots Every Time (Paperback)
by Serge Timacheff (Author), David Karlins (Author) which despite the Amazon reviews I think is an absolutely fantastic book. Check out the section on "shooting dark".
The NYI one has a specific section on skating that might be relevant.
Other than that, it's just a question of more practice, as despite what all the manufacturers would have us believe, it's the person, not the camera. I think sports can be especially difficult so you might find yourself taking 50 pics to get a few good ones. But hey, it doesn't cost anything, right? You might also find you'll need a 70 - 200 f2.8 (or maybe a cheaper solution is some noise reduction software if you are turning the dial up to 800ISO +). Have lots of fun as you progress!
Thanks for the tips! I am planning on going to a hockey game this weekend at the same arena, so I will continue to play and see what I can come up with.
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That said, here's my advice.
On the XS, you should be able to change your ISO setting. I'd make sure it is at least 800. You'll get a bit more noise, but you'll be able to get a faster shutter speed.
As well, I'm guessing that your lens is very similar to mine, about F3.5 at 18mm, and 5.6 at 55mm. I'd do most of your shooting at 18mm, and use software to crop the image down to exactly what you want. Make sure you are shooting at the highest possible resolution you have available. I think it is probably 'L' and 'fine' or 'superfine' on the XS.
Sorry if you've come across all the following already, but building on what has already been said:
Check out pgs 50, 57, 60 - 63,70 of your manual.
Check Amazon or your local bookstore for
Digital Sports Photography: Take Winning Shots Every Time (Paperback)
by Serge Timacheff (Author), David Karlins (Author) which despite the Amazon reviews I think is an absolutely fantastic book. Check out the section on "shooting dark".
I make no claims for the usefulness or otherwise of these, but they look liike they might be good:
http://www.astropix.com/SPORTSPIX/NSC/NOTES.HTM
http://malektips.com/digital_sports_photography_help_and_tips.html
http://www.nyip.com/ezine/sports/
http://www.flickr.com/groups/sportsphoto/
The NYI one has a specific section on skating that might be relevant.
Other than that, it's just a question of more practice, as despite what all the manufacturers would have us believe, it's the person, not the camera. I think sports can be especially difficult so you might find yourself taking 50 pics to get a few good ones. But hey, it doesn't cost anything, right? You might also find you'll need a 70 - 200 f2.8 (or maybe a cheaper solution is some noise reduction software if you are turning the dial up to 800ISO +). Have lots of fun as you progress!
http://dgrin.smugmug.com/gallery/1188111
It talks mostly about basketball shooting but same low light issues appears