Introduction

Recently, I came across a comment from someone who had just received a Nikon Z5 as a gift. They were eager to photograph their kids playing sports but felt a bit overwhelmed by all the camera's buttons. I completely understand that feeling, so I decided to create this beginner's guide to help you capture those perfect high-speed shots.

Here are the key Takeaways

1. Shutter Priority Mode: On your Nikon Z5, there's a mode knob. Turn it to 'S', which stands for shutter priority. This setting allows you to determine the shutter speed, and the camera will adjust other settings accordingly. I suggest starting with a shutter speed of 1/320th of a second. This speed should make your subject clear, while fast-moving objects, like a ball, might appear slightly blurry. If your shots aren't coming out sharp enough, you can always increase the shutter speed.

2. Aperture Settings: Aperture Settings: With the shutter priority mode, my camera automatically suggested an aperture of 22. This means everything in the shot will be in focus. If you'd like to adjust the focus depth, you'll need to switch to manual mode.

3. ISO Settings: ISO controls the camera's light sensitivity. I prefer setting it to automatic, letting the camera adjust the ISO for me. This way, I only have to focus on the shutter speed.

4. Quick Access Menu: Press the 'i' button on your camera to access this menu. Here, set the release mode to 'continuous high' for rapid shots. For focus, opt for 'auto focus continuous' and 'auto area AF'. These settings will help your camera track and focus on moving subjects seamlessly.

5. Manual Settings: For those who prefer more control, the video discusses selecting the aperture and shutter speed manually. I also touch upon adjusting the ISO sensitivity to manage the light sensitivity of the camera.

6. Automatic Information Menu & Focus Mode: The automatic information menu and focus mode can be handy to capture moving subjects. By pressing the OK button, a square with arrows appears, which can be aimed and placed on the subject to track its movement. Half-pressing the button locks the tracking, and the touch screen can be accessed by pressing where you want it to focus.

7. Tracking Movement: To start tracking a subject, press the 'OK' button. You'll see a square with arrows. Position this square on your subject, like your child, and half-press the shutter button. The camera will then track their movement. To stop tracking, simply press the minus button.

8. Sharpening Images & Reducing Noise: Adjusting the shutter speed faster and aperture to higher can help get sharper images and reduce noise, ensuring clear and crisp photographs.

Conclusion

Capturing moving subjects, especially in sports, can be challenging, but with the right settings and a bit of practice, you'll be taking professional-grade photos in no time. I hope this guide helps you make the most of your Nikon Z5.

This blog post is based on the video titled "Nikon Z5, How To Photograph Your Kids Playing Sport (soccer, football, athletics, running)" available on YouTube.