Sports Photography in Album

Hey,

I might have an opportunity to display some of my art in a gallery soon and I need some advice. I have photos of action shots in various sports as any sports photographer should have, but I want to shoot a series of photographs that have a gallery appeal but a sports feel. Possibly like athlete of portraits or something. Please suggest possible series ideas or pictures that can inspire me.

Thank in advance,

Lee!

. . . I want to shoot a series of photographs that have a gallery appeal but a sports feel. . .

Consider a story told in a montage, or as series of individual photographs -

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In a gallery/exhibition setting, I think it helps if your photos have something connecting them other than being action shots. That something could be one sport (or event) and/or a common 'look' (vibrant color or b/w). It could be one theme (for example facial expressions of sporters). Unusual perspectives/lighting of 'ordinary' sports often make for the most interesting photos.

@William Michael's 'story' suggestion is a great one. A 'story' gives your exhibition a common thread and also has a lot of scope to include different types of shots.

There are lists of 'top sport photographers' whose websites you could visit but most of us don't have their resources or skills. One source of inspiration is of course the 'most admired' sport photos on Photonet.

Another might be the 'editors choice' for sport photos on 500px.

First thing I would ask you is the purpose of the gallery display. If it is a juried show, it is one thing - if the primary intent, and possibly your motivation, is to sell photos, it is quite another. I confess to never having purchased a photo print, just a fairly broad variety of other two and three dimensional art to enjoy around my home. Most likely my view is too subjective, but it might be useful to visit other galleries in your area to see what sells, consider popular color ranges and styles that are current, including matting and framing. Another consideration is the popularity of the particular sport or team, which would be important to an enthusiast, as would capture of a very engaging moment or demonstration of a peak skill. Except as a personal matter, e.g. some family member involved, I have difficulty imagining having a sports photo as a art / decor element. Even when my children were successful and active in their sports over the years, I don't believe anything made it past the door of the 'fridge. The single exception is a collage commemorating years of participation in a martial art received as a gift on retirement from active teaching - this containing images of friends and instructors long departed along with younger self over the years, photos we did not have - memories of course, that we do.

I think you will need some sort of "hook" or point of differentiation in order to succeed as you wish. I haven't an idea what that might be - probably some others will be able to offer one that works for you. I wish you the best of luck in your endeavour!