FIRST Photography

[Joe Menassa]

Hey Everyone,

This applies to anyone that has a camera or takes photographs at FIRST events.

During my past 4 years of FIRST I am the one on my team that always has a camera. I have been to dozens of competitions and photographed thousands of robots and matches. This year I have decided to make a sort of photo documentary of the entire FIRST 2005 season. It will include everything from pre-kickoff to the off-season competitions. The documentary will cover all aspects of FIRST. I hope to make it very professional and possibly put it on a website someday for everyone to use.

What I need from you, other than cooperation at competitions when you see me snapping away, is advice. I have been taken photos for many years and I have taken many classes in high school and college. However, I have always learned the most useful information from peers. What I want to know is how you take pictures of FIRST?

What are the good spots to view from at competitions?
How do you capture the true excitement that everyone feels at competitions?
How do you translate the fast paced action during a match into a still image?
How do you get the team to stand still during the group photo?
How do you make a photo of a robot look interesting to a person not involved in FIRST?
What types of photos do sponsors like to see?
What types of photos do you like to take during the build season?
What equipment do you use?

Basically I want to know what works for everyone else. I have done many things throughout the years but I am still having trouble capturing FIRST perfectly (perfect is impossible but I want to get close).

Thanks