Action shots (Olympus D435)

[MattP.]

Hello everyone,

I recieved an Olympus D435 for Christmas (I realize it isn't that superb of a camera, but I will live) really only to take mountain biking to get pics of the trail and action shots (hopefully). It takes still photos good enough for me, but it's the action shots I am concerned with. The first time I tried an action shot was at night (see pic) and I was quite disappointed. I don't know if it was me or the camera or both, but it turned out pretty aweful. I had it set on the "Sports Setting." I was hoping to have a pic where you could actually see the rider in air, not just a streak. Is that possible with this camera? I noticed that after I click the shoot button, it will take the picture about 1.5 seconds later, it like autofocuses. I wasn't using a tripod or anything like that, just my hand. Any suggestions (if possible) to have them turn out better?

Thanks all,
Matt

[JSPhoto]

Well MattP,

If you hadn't said there was a rider in the shot I wouldn't have noticed. I thought the railing was blurred...OK, I'm tired.

Anyway, sports mode really isn't that hot, especially in low light such as this photo. You might have been better off with Program mode (did I say that?) .

One thing is to practice panning, even if it's cars driving past your home, the more you shoot the more you will learn to do it properly. Keep elbows in, make sure your not moving the camera when pushing the shutter button down. Unfortunately with your gear you need to plan ahead due to shutter lag. Thats where knowing the subject and speed....again, a lot of practice will get you fixed up. I shoot everything in manual mode, and way back when (OK 5 years) I had the same problems.

Also, stop by the sports forum and we can help you there.
JS