In a groundbreaking development for sports photography, Sony’s flagship a9 III global shutter full frame mirrorless camera and the PDT-FP1 portable data transmitter have transformed the way MLS soccer matches are covered. A recent match at the Seattle Sounders provided the perfect opportunity to showcase the capabilities of these cutting-edge tools, marking a significant milestone for a photographer’s dream of capturing professional sports.
The photographer, who had a deep-rooted passion for soccer, was able to fulfill a lifelong goal of documenting a pro MLS soccer game thanks to the support of various individuals and organizations. Fstoppers, The Mayor of Seattle, Glazer’s Camera Rentals, and the Seattle Sounders communications team played instrumental roles in making this opportunity a reality.
Equipped with the a9 III camera and the PDT-FP1 data transmitter, the photographer aimed to capture the fast-paced action on the pitch from various perspectives. The a9 III’s global shutter technology eliminated issues such as warping or banding, ensuring sharp and accurate images with straight lines, vibrant colors, and balanced exposures. The camera’s autofocus tracking capabilities proved to be invaluable, allowing the photographer to freeze the action and capture decisive moments with ease.
To complement the a9 III, additional gear was rented from Glazer’s Camera Rentals, including a second Sony a9 III body, Sony’s 300mm GM lens, teleconverters, and other accessories. The photographer’s own lenses and equipment rounded out the kit, which also included action cameras for behind-the-scenes footage.
The a9 III’s ability to capture 120 photos per second presented a challenge in terms of storage, necessitating an ample supply of memory cards. However, the camera’s pre-capture and “Speed Boost” features enabled the photographer to navigate the game in burst mode, capturing both goals scored by the Sounders.
The PDT-FP1 data transmitter proved to be a game-changer for real-time image uploads and broadcasting. With its robust antenna design and cellular signal redundancy, the transmitter ensured strong network connectivity and seamless integration with Sony Alpha cameras. The photographer was able to tag and upload images in real-time using the Transfer & Tagging app, providing immediate updates and highlights to the team at Glazer’s Camera Rentals.
The combination of the a9 III camera and the PDT-FP1 data transmitter showcased the power of real-time broadcast photojournalism, revolutionizing the workflow for sports photographers. The advantages of direct FTP uploads and IPTC tagging during gameplay cannot be overstated, providing a significant edge for Alpha sports photojournalists.
Reflecting on the experience, the photographer emphasized the importance of understanding the game of soccer and anticipating key moments. The journey to becoming a professional sports photojournalist requires dedication, research, preparation, and honing both technical and creative storytelling skills.