Hockey photography is a fast-paced genre that is very demanding on your camera equipment and photography experience. The right choice of lens, exposure adjustments for the ice rink, and focusing speed are crucial. Learn how to capture not only the game, but also the emotions on the ice and in the stands. Learn what kind of photography equipment and tricks come in handy.  

In the first part of this article on hockey photography, we explained how to photograph a hockey game. But for the best hockey photography, you also need to know what equipment to use. The photoequipment you choose depends on the hockey arena’s lighting. I recommend a 70-200mm f/2.8lens, which I consider a basic requirement for hockey photography. 

For lower-level hockey games, a lens aperture of around f/2.8 is required. You may also encounter well-lit stadiums where a lens with a smaller aperture may suffice. 

In the corners along the boards for shooting face-offs on the ice, I recommend a shorter focal length. For documenting action around the goal and close-ups, I recommend a focal length of around 70-200mm.

Don’t forget that hockey photography is not just about the game. During the game, there are press conferences, competitions, ceremonies, etc. Keep this in mind when choosing your focal length. The truth is that in most cases, you can get by with a lens with a focal length of around 70-200m, but there are situations where a shorter focal length comes in handy.  

Which camera is best? I recommend a camera with a full-frame sensor to reduce digital noise. Hockey is a fast-paced game, and since you’re close to the action and have to refocus quickly, quality and focusing speed are very important.  

What to bring

Start with a photography vest. For higher-level games, you will probably receive one from the hockey team, but I always carry a spare just in case. There are many advantages to hockey being an indoor sport. You don’t have to worry about the weather and apart from the intermissions, there’s consistent lighting and heat. You should pay attention to your footwear. You may need to step onto the ice, and I don’t recommend doing so with dirty shoes.

Since you’ll often be shooting from behind the boards, the photos often have lower contrast, saturation, and most importantly, there is a lot of glare. One solution is a rubber lens hood that you can rest on the boards.   

I purchased a lens hood on eBay but had to modify it since it contained a small cross-section, but there are plenty of lens hoods suitable for hockey on the market. Still, there aren’t many photographers with these types of lens hoods, or at least I haven’t seen them. 

Photography notes 

You may also find LCD advertising panels that mess with exposure settings and white balance, so be careful when applying presets.

Fast shutter speeds unfortunately increase ISO and digital noise. For pictures of the players, I set a minimum of 1/1000s, but even that can be too fast in some situations. However, if you’re taking pictures of the coaches, players, or spectators in a position that isn’t as well-lit as the rink, you can reduce the ISO value by setting a longer shutter speed. 

To quickly switch between these types of shots, I recommend using the U1 and U2 user modes, if your camera has them. The advantage of these modes is that you can use them to apply more changes than just shutter speed with one click. I also have these modes set for whether or not I have image stabilization enabled, as I don’t need it for shorter shutter speeds, but it can be useful for longer shutter speeds.

When shooting fast movement, it’s important to get as many shots in as little time as possible. Each camera has a different frame rate. Frame rate may also vary depending on the shooting mode, etc. If you want the highest possible frame rate, check your camera’s manual. You may need to lower the number of bits for RAW format.  

If you want photos of the goalie, I recommend setting single focus on the goalkeeper or goal and keeping that focus for the direction of action at the goal. There are usually other players skating around that may throw off your focus. 

You can get some good shots when a player quickly stops and there is a splash of ice, or shots of a fight with facial expressions full of emotion. 

When photographing important games, you won’t be alone and there will be many photographers from different editorials, clubs, etc.  Try to always agree on rotating positions and follow the rules that apply to the game, as overseen by the referees.

The referee is not your friend.  There are three referees, and they frequently skate into your shot during key moments in the game, just like one did to me during one of the goals.   

Assume that if you shoot a lot of hockey photography, the transition from the warm press room and the cold stadium is not conducive to rubber accessories, like the zoom and focus rings, and they can get “stretched out” over time.   

In closing 

Choosing the right equipment and setup is the key to success when doing hockey photography. The dynamics of the game, the variable lighting, and the need for quick reactions put high demands on photographers who want to capture the key moments, as well as the emotions of the players, coaches, and fans. A lens with the right lens apertures, fast focusing, and the right exposure adjustments allow you to capture every key moment of the game.  

Preparation doesn’t stop with the right gear—keep your comfort and safety in mind, as the hockey rink can take you by surprise. Want to learn more about choosing the best shooting locations in the stadium and doing the actual shoot? Read the first part of our article where we discuss practical tips and tricks for hockey photography.