Badminton Malaysia Open

Every second counts: Sadiq Asyraf used a Leica SL2-S to capture the highlights of the Badminton Open in Malaysia. The passionate sports photographer explains how the best pictures can be taken at emotionally-charged sporting events.

LFI: What do you like most about sports photography? What are the biggest differences to classic news photography?
In sports photography, what I like the most is the ability to capture the pure action and emotion of the athletes during the game. When we watch a game via another medium, we tend to overlook these kinds of details, but in sports photography, we can freeze the moment and show these important in-game scenes, that will give a whole different vibe to the audience.
Sports photography and classic news photography have always dealt with fast-paced assignments. Both need important elements in creating a photo with high intensity and full of raw emotions, while telling the stories. The only difference is that in a game or any tournament, my level of adrenalin will always rise high. Not to mention that I need to think fast, trying to predict the unpredictable during the match and find the right timing to push the camera button.

Do you have a certain photographic approach? What makes a strong image?
The best approach for me to produce a ‘strong image’ is to always give extra attention to the details and elements, to capture the actions and emotions. To produce a strong image, I must understand the subject first. In my early days, I used to do a little bit of research before the game. After a few years of shooting badminton games, I've become familiar with each player’s gameplay and character. It definitely makes my job easier when I can anticipate their action.

Technically speaking, what are the most important things to consider while photographing at sporting events?
In my opinion – aside from getting yourself equipped with the game rules –, it's important for sports photographers to find the right spot. Try to find an angle with a clean background and mixed with a good composition. Don’t forget to play with different photography techniques – such as long exposure – to get some creative shots. Secondly, you have to know your gear. During the Badminton Open in Malaysia, I used two sets of gear with different lens ranges, so that I could quickly change during the game. If you miss one second of the action, you will never get the same shot again.

You are working with a Leica SL2-S…
The Badminton Open in Malaysia was my first sports assignment using the Leica SL2-S. I'm completely amazed by this camera's performance. The autofocus, face and body detection, works so fast, enabling me to create the shot I want very smoothly. The most amazing fact is that the camera works great even in low light situations. In sports photography, I always need a high shutter speed to freeze the action, but the downside is that it pushes the ISO higher as well. But with Leica SL2-S, it's easier to set a high shutter speed, because the ISO will still be manageable, so that I can get the exposure I want.
(Interview: Danilo Rößger)

All images on this page: © Sadiq Asyraf
Equipment: Leica SL2-S with APO-Vario-Elmarit SL 90-280 f/2.8-4 Apsh. and APO-Summicron-SL 50 f/2 Asph.