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Tips and Tricks to Capture Your Stunning Trampoline Action

Are you prepared to improve your trampolining techniques and document the sheer joy and adrenaline of your trampoline adventures? We provide everything you need, whether your objective is to perform gravity-defying stunts or freeze mid-air flips. This blog will provide useful advice and techniques to help you take breathtaking trampoline pictures and movies that perfectly convey the exhilaration of the occasion.

But that’s not all! We’ll also get an inside look at how influencers employ these strategies to produce visually stunning content that captivates their audience. Now that you have your camera, let’s dive into the exciting world of trampoline action photography!

Equipment Essentials

Capturing stunning in ground trampoline action shots requires the right equipment to ensure you get clear, dynamic, and exciting images and videos. Let’s explore the essentials that will elevate your hybrid shooting game.

Camera Choices

Camera Choices

DSLR vs. Mirrorless: When it comes to action shots, both DSLRs and mirrorless cameras have their unique advantages:

  • DSLRs: Known for their robust build and extensive lens options, DSLRs are fantastic for action photography. They offer fast autofocus and high burst rates, ensuring you capture every split-second of the action.
  • Mirrorless Cameras: These are lighter and more compact, making them easier to handle during active shoots. Mirrorless cameras excel with their electronic viewfinders and superior continuous autofocus, which is perfect for tracking fast movements on a trampoline.

Smartphones: Don’t underestimate the power of modern smartphones! Many come equipped with advanced camera technology that rivals traditional cameras. Here are some top picks:

  • iPhone 14 Pro: With its triple-camera system and ProRAW capabilities, it captures incredible detail and colour.
  • Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: It is known for its impressive zoom and high-resolution sensors, this phone is perfect for action shots.
  • Google Pixel 7 Pro: Boasting excellent AI-driven features and superb low-light performance, it’s great for capturing dynamic trampoline shots, even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions.

Accessories

Tripods and Stabilizers: To capture clear and sharp trampoline action shots, stability is key. Here’s why tripods and stabilisers are essential:

  • Tripods: They provide a steady base, which is crucial for long-exposure shots or when using a high-zoom lens. Look for lightweight and portable options, like the Manfrotto Befree Advanced Tripod.
  • Stabilisers: Gimbals and other stabilising devices help smooth out the motion when capturing video. The DJI Osmo Mobile 4 is a popular choice for smartphone users, while the Zhiyun Crane series is excellent for heavier cameras.

Lenses

Choosing the right lens can make a huge difference in your trampoline photography:

  • Wide-Angle Lenses: Perfect for capturing the full scope of the action and including the trampoline’s environment. They create an immersive feel, making viewers feel part of the scene.
  • Fisheye Lenses: These lenses offer a unique, curved perspective that can add an artistic touch to your shots, making the action appear more dynamic and exciting.
  • Action Lenses: Specialty lenses designed for fast movements, like the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III, allow you to zoom in on the action without losing clarity, even in low light.

If you have the correct tools, you can easily take amazing action photos of people jumping on trampolines. We’ll then go over the camera settings and methods that will enable you to get the most out of these resources. Keep checking back!

Composition Tips

Composition Tips - trampoline action

Fake influencers and poisonous algorithms draw people into a vicious cycle of consumption, debate, and comparison. But don’t worry, by jumping and having fun on a trampoline, you can protect yourself from the dangers of social media. Learn more

An enjoyable trampoline action shot can become a breathtaking one with the right composition. Here are some crucial pointers to help you compose your images and use a trampoline scooter to make your actions more stunning so that you can get the ideal shot.

Framing the Shot: Finding Creative Angles and using trampoline scooters 

Creative Angles

  • Low Angles: Jumps and flips can look more spectacular and larger-than-life when shot from a low angle.
  • High Angles: On the other hand, photographing from above can provide a distinctive viewpoint that brings the tricks’ height and intricacy to life.
  • Side Angles: Shooting from the side allows you to capture the entire extent of a jump or flip. This can highlight the motions’ grace and athleticism.

Use trampoline scooter

  • Choose the Right Trampoline Scooter: Choosing the ideal trampoline scooter is essential for capturing amazing action scenes. Select a sturdy, light-weight scooter that provides stability with a firm grip on the handlebars and deck. This guarantees that you can carry out your stunts with assurance and safety.
  • Perfect Your Tricks: To ensure your trampoline scooter footage is impressive, focus on mastering the basics first. Start with simple tricks like bar spins, tail whips, and 180s, then progress to more complex combinations. Consistent practice is key to making your tricks look effortless and captivating on camera.

Background Considerations

Simplify the Background

  • Clutter-devoid: Make sure the background is devoid of anything that could draw attention away from the main subject, such as people, buildings, or other things. A plain, uncluttered background aids in maintaining the action’s focal point.
  • Natural features: For your background, use natural features such as a regular tree line or a clean sky. These can provide background and depth without overpowering the topic.

Colour Contrast

  • Contrast: Choose backgrounds that contrast with your subject’s clothing and the trampoline. For instance, if your subject is wearing bright colours, a neutral background will help them stand out more.
  • Continuous Shooting: Enable burst mode to take a rapid series of shots with a single press of the shutter button. This is especially useful for capturing fast-paced trampoline action where the perfect moment is fleeting.

By applying these composition tips, you’ll enhance your trampoline action shots, making them more visually appealing and engaging. Next, we’ll dive into action-packed poses and tricks to capture. Stay tuned!

Action-Packed Poses and Tricks

Action-Packed Poses and Tricks - trampoline action

Capturing trampoline action shots isn’t just about the technical aspects; it’s also about showcasing the excitement and athleticism of trampoline moves. Here’s how to capture popular moves, time your shots perfectly, and prioritise safety.

Popular Trampoline Moves: Capturing Flips, Jumps, and Stunts

Flips

  • Backflips and Frontflips: These are classic sport trampoline tricks that look impressive on camera. Capture the height, rotation, and landing for a complete sequence
  • Twisting Flips: Moves like the corkscrew add an extra layer of complexity. Position yourself to highlight the twist in mid-air.

Jumps

  • Tuck Jumps: In a tuck jump, the knees are pulled to the chest. Capture the moment when the jumper is at the peak of the jump, showing the compact form.
  • Pike Jumps: In a pike jump, the legs are extended forward. Shoot from the side to capture the full extension and height.

Stunts

  • Seat Drops and Knee Drops: These foundational moves can be visually striking, especially when captured mid-bounce.
  • Combinations: Advanced trampoline users often combine moves. For example, a flip followed by a seat drop. Capture the transitions to show the fluidity and skill.

Safety First: Ensuring Safe Practices for Both the Photographer and the Subject

Safety for the Jumper

  • Spotting: Ensure there is someone spotting the jumper, especially when attempting complex or new tricks.
  • Padding: Make sure the trampoline and surrounding areas are well-padded to prevent injuries from falls.
  • Trampoline accessories: use trampoline accessories like trampoline socks, safety enclosures etc while performing popular moves to add an extra layer of safety.   
  • Warm-Up: Encourage a proper warm-up to avoid muscle strains and other injuries.

Safety for the Photographer

  • Safe Distance: Maintain a safe distance from the trampoline to avoid being hit by the jumper or the trampoline frame.
  • Stable Position: Ensure you have a stable footing, especially if you’re moving around to capture different angles.

Awareness

  • Stay Alert: Always be aware of the jumper’s movements to avoid accidental collisions. Keep an eye on the action, especially if you’re using a camera with a long lens that can limit your peripheral vision.
  • Secure Equipment: Make sure your camera gear is securely attached and easy to handle. Straps, harnesses, or monopods can help you manage your equipment safely.

By capturing popular trampoline moves with perfect timing and ensuring safety for both the photographer and the subject, you’ll create stunning, action-packed photos that showcase the thrill and skill of trampoline jumping. Next, we’ll dive into editing your photos and videos to enhance these action shots even further. Stay tuned!

Editing Your Photos and Videos

Editing Your Photos and Videos - trampoline action

Editing is where you can turn great trampoline action shots into stunning masterpieces. Here’s how to use photo and video editing tools to enhance your trampoline photography.

Photo Editing Tools

Recommended Apps and Software

  • Adobe Lightroom: A powerful tool for both beginners and professionals. It offers extensive controls for colour correction, exposure adjustments, and fine-tuning details.
  • Snapseed: A user-friendly mobile app with a wide range of editing features, perfect for quick edits on the go.
  • Photoshop: Ideal for more advanced edits, such as removing unwanted objects, blending exposures, and applying complex filters.
  • VSCO: Popular for its filters and easy-to-use interface, making it a favourite among influencers for quick and stylish edits.

Video Editing

Adding Slow-Motion Effects for Dramatic Impact

  • Slow-Motion: Apply slow-motion effects to highlight key moments like flips or jumps. This not only adds drama but also allows viewers to appreciate the skill and technique involved.
  • Frame Rate Adjustment: Ensure you’ve shot your video at a high frame rate (like 60fps or higher) to avoid choppy slow-motion playback. Use software like Final Cut Pro or Adobe Premiere Pro for precise control.
  • Highlight Key Moments: Use slow-motion selectively to emphasise the most impressive parts of the action. Overusing slow-motion can make the video feel sluggish.

Additional Tips for Video Editing

  • Sound Effects and Music: Add background music that complements the energy of the trampoline action. Incorporate sound effects for jumps and landings to enhance the viewer’s experience.
  • Colour Grading: Apply colour grading to give your video a cohesive look and feel. Adjust the colour tones to match the mood you want to convey, whether it’s bright and energetic or cool and dramatic.
  • Titles and Captions: Add titles, captions, or annotations to provide context or highlight specific tricks. Keep the text simple and legible to avoid cluttering the screen.

By utilising these photo and video editing techniques, you’ll be able to enhance your trampoline action shots and videos, making them truly stand out. Up next, we’ll explore how influencers use these techniques to create captivating content. Stay tuned!

Conclusion

Capturing stunning trampoline action shots is an exciting blend of skill, creativity, and a bit of daring. By now, you’ve learned how to choose the right equipment, master essential camera settings, compose your shots creatively, and edit your photos and videos to perfection. 

Now it’s time to put these tips into action! Whether you’re a seasoned hybrid shooter or just starting out, don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun. Trampoline action shots are all about capturing the energy, excitement, and joy of the moment. So grab your camera, invite some friends, and start bouncing your way to incredible photos and videos.

To maximise trampoline bounce, ensure proper spring tension, use a high-quality mat, and maintain regular cleaning. Also, bounce near the centre, set up on flat ground, and check weight limits to enhance performance.

To prevent motion blur, use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/1000th of a second. Additionally, enable burst mode to capture multiple shots in quick succession, increasing your chances of getting a sharp image.

Popular moves include backflips, frontflips, tuck jumps, pike jumps, and various stunts like seat drops and knee drops. Experiment with capturing these tricks from different angles to highlight the action and athleticism.

Use natural light whenever possible, shooting during early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting conditions. If shooting indoors or in low light, consider using external flashes or continuous lighting. Adjusting your camera’s aperture and ISO settings can also help balance the light.

Both DSLRs and mirrorless cameras are excellent for action photography due to their fast autofocus and high burst rates. However, modern smartphones with advanced camera technology can also produce great results. Choose a camera that you’re comfortable using and that meets your specific needs.