Please stop running; so I can take your picture

Armada's fan section cheers on the Tigers. 

Head coach Russell Collins gives Armada 

player Adam Job direction on the next play.

   As I stepped into the gym of Richmond High School, my heat raced with excitement. This was my first time capturing pictures for a sporting event. A basketball game in particular.
   With a smile plastered on my face, I looked around the gym and thought to myself,
that I have no idea what I am doing.
   I normally feel like I have a great grasp on situations that I am un-familiar with. This time though, I was treading in some deep waters; that which forced me to take my life saving device off and swim.
   Within moments of capturing different pictures, frustration overtook my emotions. Picture after picture and blur after blur, I felt defeated and very discouraged.
   Capturing a sports feature photo was extremely challenging for me, in many different aspects. The main aspect that was very challenging, was my camera settings, and I kept capturing photos that did not turned out blurry.
   Taking a quality photo of the athletes was another extremely challenging aspect. For the most obvious reason; the players were running around.
   After the first two quarters had passed I felt that I had finally sometime mastered my technique, somewhat. I became comfortable after reassuring myself and learning that different camera setting will affect my pictures.

Adam Job defends the basket against Richmond player Dillon McInerney.

    Aside from being pushed outside my comfort zone; I was also challenged with capturing images that were visually appealing.
   Shooting pictures for a sports feature was way harder that what I thought it was going to be. I did not expect it to be an easy task, but I also didn't expect it to be so frustrating.
   Though my emotions did rise, I enjoyed being out on the court and taking pictures of the athletes in their natural environment.
   Another aspect I enjoyed, was being able to watch the athletes. I  admired the teamwork, passion, and support of a team that grew together throughout their season. The night boiled down with a lost for the Armada Tigers. It was the last game of their season.
   Throughout this experience, I learned that capturing pictures of sports takes time and effort. It is one skill that develops over time and creates a feeling of confidence when mastered. Also I learned during this event that fear of messing up will only limit my creativity and what I can accomplish.