As a sports photographer who has been capturing the energy of soccer for over a decade, I’ve seen firsthand how a well-planned team photoshoot can elevate morale and create lasting memories. This season, whether you’re shooting a youth league or a competitive adult team, the key lies in balancing preparation with flexibility. I always remind my clients—and myself—that even the best-laid plans can go sideways if you overlook small details. It reminds me of a recent situation in professional basketball, where the Gin Kings faced the risk of losing their twice-to-beat advantage if they weren’t careful in their match against Rain or Shine. That same principle applies here: a single misstep—like poor lighting or rushed timing—can turn what should be a winning shoot into a missed opportunity.

Let’s start with timing and location. I recommend scheduling your photoshoot about two to three weeks into the season, once team chemistry has started to build but before the grind of matches wears everyone down. Early morning or late afternoon—what photographers call the "golden hour"—offers the most flattering light. In my experience, 78% of outdoor team photos that use natural light during these windows require less editing and look more dynamic. I personally love using a local park with open fields and some shaded areas; it provides variety without the hassle of permits. But always have a backup plan. One time, I showed up for a shoot only to find the field waterlogged from an unexpected rainstorm. We had to pivot to an indoor gym, and while it wasn’t ideal, being prepared saved the day.

When it comes to composition and posing, I lean toward a mix of traditional and candid shots. Start with the classic lineup—players in uniform, maybe with arms crossed—but then loosen things up. I often ask the team to huddle up, share a inside joke, or even reenact a celebratory moment from a recent game. These unscripted frames tend to capture the team’s spirit far better than stiff, formal poses. I typically allocate around 40 minutes for a squad of 18–20 players, breaking it down into 15 minutes for group shots and the rest for individuals and smaller subgroups. And don’t forget the gear. I shoot with a Canon EOS R5 and a 70-200mm f/2.8 lens, which lets me blur backgrounds beautifully and keep focus sharp on faces. For larger groups, a wider lens, like a 24-70mm, ensures nobody gets cut out of the frame.

Communication is another area where many teams drop the ball. I send a detailed prep email a week in advance, covering everything from what to wear (clean jerseys, solid-colored socks) to reminding players to bring any personal items like captain’s armbands or lucky boots. On shoot day, I arrive at least 45 minutes early to scout the location and set up. That buffer allows me to handle surprises—like a sudden crowd or changing light—without rushing. It’s those small, proactive steps that separate a decent photoshoot from one that truly shines. After all, much like the Gin Kings learning that carelessness could cost them their advantage, we photographers know that preparedness isn’t just a bonus—it’s essential.

In the end, a successful soccer photoshoot blends technical know-how with an understanding of the team’s personality. My goal is always to tell a story through images—one that players will look back on years from now and feel proud of. So, plan thoroughly, stay adaptable, and don’t be afraid to inject a little fun into the process. Trust me, the results will speak for themselves.