Selects: Top 10 Accessories for Sports Photography

When starting out in sports photography, your first decision will be what camera and lens to use. If you need some help on this, we have you covered in our comprehensive Camera Setups for Sports Photography article.

After you’ve got your first setup and you’re raring to go, consider these useful and sometimes essential accessories for sports photography. 

1. Teleconverters & Extension Tubes

Sports photography usually means you’re on the sidelines, away from the action. That distance means using lenses with enough focal length to ‘reach’ the subject. Otherwise, your composition will be mostly filled with green space. Not every photographer can afford a whole set of telephoto lenses covering every focal length. 

Teleconverters and extension tubes are a more affordable way to increase your focal length. Teleconverters commonly come in 1.4x and 2x magnification variants. 

Teleconverters increase the focal length and reduce the aperture of the attached lens. For example, if you’re using a 100mm f/2.8 lens with a 1.4x teleconverter, your equivalent reach and aperture will be 140mm and f/4. While teleconverters help you reach further, this comes at a price. The reduced aperture generally means worse low-light performance and a deeper depth of field.

Some common teleconverters are the Canon EF 1.4x II Extender or the Nikon TC-20E III, for example. 

2. Flashguns

As you progress in your sports photography career, you'll likely encounter situations where a flash becomes necessary, particularly for capturing post-game celebrations or award presentations. Most sports photography beginners won't need a flashgun. But if you'd like to experiment, there are plenty of affordable flashguns available.

When you need a more advanced model, upgrade to a more versatile option. Many photographers buy a ‘native’ camera flash for their camera system, such as a Nikon Speedlight or Canon Speedlite. 

For more in-depth information, check out our top Canon flashes and top Nikon flashes.

3. File Transmitter

If you don’t have a camera with built-in WiFi and the ability to transfer images to an FTP server directly, then you will need a file transmitter. 

A file transmitter will enable you to send out high-resolution images, straight to whoever may need them. You can focus on covering the event, making sure you don’t miss a crucial moment. 

4. Remote Triggers

Remote triggers allow you to trigger a camera’s shutter from a distance. This is useful if you can’t be immediately next to the camera—for example, behind the goal. 

In our Football Photography 101 guide, Eddie Keogh explains, “I will set up a Canon remote camera with a 20mm f/2.8 USM behind the goal on a mini tripod. I use a PocketWizard to trigger that camera and will set the speed to 1000th and the aperture to around f/5.6, depending on how good the light is.” 

5. Extra Batteries & Battery Grips

You don’t want to miss that magical moment because your battery runs out, do you? An extra battery or two will help prolong your shooting day. 

Plus, a battery grip for your camera can be a solid investment. Battery grips can usually hold two batteries, so you can effectively shoot all day. Plus, battery grips can make the camera feel sturdier and easier to shoot vertically.

6. Monopod

Monopods can help reduce the fatigue of carrying around and holding up heavy cameras and lenses. You’ll need one if you’re using a heavy lens all day.

7. Fast SD Card

A fast SD card will help with burst shooting, allowing a faster file write speed. And faster shooting means less chance of missing the shot.

8. UV Filter & Rain Cover for Protection 

A filter will help protect the front element of your lens.

While not the most exciting piece of equipment, a high-quality rain cover is an indispensable tool for photographers, especially those working outdoors. Adverse weather conditions are no excuse for missing a shot, and a reliable rain cover is crucial for protecting your gear and ensuring you can continue working in any environment.

9. Neck Strap & Camera Harness

Nobody likes the idea of dropping their camera. A neck strap is essential, particularly if you shoot handheld and need the option to keep your hands free.

If you want to go a step further, then investing in a quality camera harness can significantly improve your photography experience. By distributing the weight of your equipment across your body, a harness can reduce neck strain from using a neck strap. More importantly, a harness allows you to carry and quickly access multiple cameras simultaneously.

10. Stool/Chair

Investing in a sturdy, foldable stool that's easy to carry and quick to set up can make a world of difference. A stool makes it easier to keep a low profile and provides comfort during lulls in the action. This small investment can help reduce fatigue, ultimately contributing to a more enjoyable shooting experience—and probably better photos, too.

Finally, consider getting some knee pads. These help reduce the strain on the knees, particularly if you find yourself kneeling down a lot while shooting. 

FAQs

Do sports photographers use tripods?

Sports photographers typically don't use traditional tripods for most situations. They overwhelmingly favour monopods for their increased versatility and portability or shoot handheld. 

Do I need a flash for sports photography?

The use of flash in sports photography depends on the specific situation and environment. They are generally only used during celebrations and in lowlight indoor sports. 

Looking for more sports photography content?

This article is part of the MPB Guide to Sports Photography, our comprehensive look at how to create sports photography, with camera recommendations, advice and interviews with experts.