Behind the Scenes of a Sports Photography Shoot
- Luke
- Dec 17, 2025
- 3 min read
People see the final images - moments of action, emotion, and atmosphere - but rarely what goes into making them. Behind every sports photograph is a process: planning, problem-solving, adapting to the unexpected, and building trust with everyone involved. Here’s what a typical shoot looks like for me, from first conversation to final delivery, and why the behind-the-scenes work matters just as much as the result.
Preparation: The Work Before the Work
Every shoot starts well before I pick up a camera. I meet with clients - brands, athletes, or event organisers - to understand what the event means to them, what stories they want to tell, and what success looks like. I build a shot list, but I don’t treat it as gospel. The best images are often the ones you don’t plan for.
I scout locations, check the light at different times of day, and look for vantage points that others might miss. I pack my kit based on the demands of the shoot - usually two Sony bodies, a mix of fast lenses, extra batteries, and backup storage. I travel light but make sure I have what I need if the weather or schedule shifts.
On Location: Adapt, Observe, and React
On the day of the shoot, I arrive early. I walk the course or venue, watch how people move, and look for moments of tension or anticipation. I introduce myself to key people - athletes, coaches, volunteers - so they know I’m there to tell their story, not just grab a highlight reel.
Most of my time is spent observing, not shooting. I look for patterns, gestures, and changes in energy. When the action starts, I work quickly but stay flexible. Sometimes the best shot isn’t at the finish line, but in a quiet corner, or during a lull in the event.
Problem-Solving on the Fly
No shoot goes exactly as planned. Weather changes, schedules slip, and access can be limited. I’ve learned to adapt - using available light, changing angles, or working with what’s in front of me. Some of my favourite images have come from unexpected challenges: rainstorms, power outages, or a last-minute change in the event route.
Building Trust and Capturing Authenticity
The best images happen when people forget the camera is there. I build rapport by being present, respectful, and unobtrusive. I check in with athletes and clients during breaks, show them a few frames, and make adjustments if something isn’t working. Trust leads to access, and access leads to real moments.
Post-Shoot: Editing and Storytelling
After the shoot, I review thousands of frames. I’m looking for more than just sharpness - I want images that tell a cohesive story. I edit with a light touch, using my custom presets to keep a consistent mood. I deliver a mix of wide shots, details, and candid moments, so clients can relive the event through images, not just see the headlines.
Lessons Learned
Preparation and flexibility are equally important.
The best moments are often unscripted.
Building trust opens doors to real stories.
Technical skill matters, but intent and observation matter more.
Final Thoughts
Behind every sports photo is a process of listening, adapting, and looking beyond the obvious. The real work happens before and after the shutter clicks. That’s where the stories are made.
About Me
Luke O’Shea is the founder of The Other 12 Hours, a Paris-based photographer with over 15 years’ experience in global brand strategy and creative direction. He’s worked with sports teams, endurance athletes, and creative clients across Australia, New Zealand, USA, and Europe - helping them tell stories that cut through the noise. View his portfolio and connect at theother12hours.com.
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