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How to Photograph Hockey Players for Easy Banner Extraction
How to Photograph Hockey Players for Easy Banner Extraction

Studio setups provide more control over lighting and backgrounds, which is ideal for capturing hockey players in a way that makes post-processing and extraction simpler. Here’s how to do it effectively:

Olena Meiiers avatar
Written by Olena Meiiers
Updated over a month ago

1. Set Up a Clean Background

  • Use a solid white or grey backdrop for the easiest extraction process.

  • Ensure the backdrop is wide and tall enough to accommodate dynamic poses without players extending beyond its edges.

  • Avoid using bright and large foot marks on the floor, as they will blend in with the blade in the photo. If you are looking for consistent poses across multiple shots, use faint masking tape to mark positions on the floor for.

2. Lighting for Definition

  • Even Lighting: Use softboxes or diffusers to evenly illuminate the player and avoid harsh shadows.

  • Key and Fill Lights: Position lights to highlight the player’s form while keeping shadows soft and minimal.

  • Accent Lighting: Use rim lighting or hair lights to create clear separation between the player and the background, especially around the skates and blades. Make sure the floor does not create glare on the blades.

3. Posing for Clarity

  • Ask players to hold dynamic but clean poses that separate limbs from the body. For instance, have them slightly bend their knees to make the skates and blades more prominent.

  • Avoid poses where gear overlaps (e.g., arms crossing the torso or skates obscured by legs).

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