Hey all, in a couple of weeks I’ll start shooting for a local minor hockey team. Small arena, and I’ll likely have access to most spots (rinkside, benches, maybe even locker room between periods).

I’ve done a fair bit of wildlife photography (mostly birds), so I’m used to tracking fast movement - but this’ll be my first real try at sports. I’ve been checking out some NHL team photographers on Instagram to get a feel for it, but figured I’d ask here too.

Gear-wise, I’ll be bringing:

• Sony A1 70-200 GM2
• a6700 Tamron 35-150 f/2-2.8
• Both on a dual BlackRapid strap

I thought about bringing a monopod, but people told me it might just get in the way in tight rinks.

I know a 24-70 would probably make more sense for rink stuff, but I can’t really justify it right now. so it’s either the 35-150 or maybe a fast prime like a 35 or 50.

Any advice for someone coming from wildlife into hockey? Stuff I should know going in? Happy to hear anything you wish you’d known starting out.