Whether you’re coaching from the sidelines, handling the camera, or working behind the scenes in athletics operations, the margin for error is razor-thin. A missed shot, frozen feed, or faulty cable can mean losing that game-winning highlight—or the entire stream.
That’s why a pre-game tech checklist isn’t optional—it’s essential.
It gives your team a moment to breathe, slow down, and make sure every piece of gear is dialed in. From the assistant coach to the video coordinator, everyone plays a role in making sure the stream runs without a hitch.
And if you’re live streaming the game? Having a platform like Resi with RSP (Resilient Streaming Protocol) gives you the ultimate insurance policy. Even if your local internet hiccups, RSP keeps your stream online and smooth, eliminating buffering and signal loss entirely.
Video equipment for sports: what you actually need
Let’s keep this simple. You don’t need a truckload of gear, but you do need the right tools.
At the core of any solid sports videography setup is a reliable video camera. Whether that’s a mirrorless camera, a camcorder, or an action cam depends on your sport and filming style. For fast-paced games like soccer or basketball, autofocus is non-negotiable. For rugged sideline work in football, durability and stabilization are key.
You’ll also want:
- A sturdy tripod or gimbal for smooth footage
- Backup batteries and SD cards (more than you think you’ll need)
- Microphones if you’re capturing commentary or coach audio
- A hardwired or tested wireless internet connection for streaming
And most importantly: A streaming platform like Resi that won’t flinch when your internet does. RSP works behind the scenes to make sure your viewers see a flawless stream, even if your upload speed tanks mid-game.
Choosing the right camera for the job
Picking a camera can feel overwhelming, so here’s a quick breakdown:
- Mirrorless cameras (like the Fujifilm X series): Great image quality and fast autofocus. Ideal for sideline shooting or highlight reels.
- Camcorders: Plug-and-play workhorses. Simple, dependable, and great for long recordings.
- Action cameras: Perfect for tight spaces, unusual angles, or high-movement sports. Think wrestling, gymnastics, or helmet cams.
No matter the camera, aim for 1080p minimum. 4K is becoming the standard, especially for post-game content like highlight edits and recruiting reels. High frame rate options (60fps or more) also give you smooth playback and slow-motion flexibility.
Don’t forget your setup crew
Behind every game-winning clip is a team that made it happen.
That includes the senior associate athletics director handling logistics, the assistant AD syncing with coaching staff, and the video coordinator balancing tripods, cables, and camera angles. Even the athletic trainer plays a role—making sure your gear isn’t blocking the med kit or treatment zones.
Everyone has a lane. On game day, know yours—and trust your team to handle theirs.
Pre-game tech checklist
Here’s your go-to list before the whistle blows:
- Charge all batteries (and backups)
- Format SD cards
- Test camera focus and shot framing
- Run a test stream on your platform (Resi makes this easy)
- Check audio levels and mic batteries
- Make sure your tripod or mount is secure
- Confirm your internet connection is solid
- Label or organize cables for fast transitions
Bonus tip: Resi’s encoders include offline-to-online stream recovery. Even if you momentarily lose your connection, your viewers never see it.
Filming tips for clear, exciting game footage
Good sports videography is about more than just tracking the ball. It’s about capturing the emotion, energy, and context of the game.
- Anticipate plays, not just follow them.
- Zoom out during transitions to keep the action in frame.
- Stay alert for moments that tell a story—goals, celebrations, timeouts, reactions.
- Use multiple angles if you can. Wide shots help with analysis; tight angles shine on social media.
- Include crowd shots, scoreboard close-ups, and team huddles to round out your footage.
After the final whistle
The game may be over, but your job isn’t.
- Back up footage immediately (external drives or cloud).
- Sort content: full-game footage, highlight clips, social-friendly reels.
- Make quick notes about what went well and what didn’t—while it’s still fresh.
Your footage isn’t just for post-game hype. It’s a powerful tool for coaching, recruiting, and telling your team’s story.
FAQ
What is the best video camera for sports?
There’s no universal answer. Mirrorless cameras (like Fujifilm’s X series) are great for quality and versatility. Camcorders and action cameras are solid, dependable options too.
How do I make sports footage look smooth?
Use a tripod or gimbal, shoot at higher frame rates (60fps+), and make sure your autofocus is dialed in. Built-in stabilization helps too.
Can I live stream a sports event with an action camera?
Absolutely. Just make sure it’s compatible with your platform—and pair it with a solid internet connection. Bonus if you’re using Resi, which smooths out any bandwidth bumps automatically.
What should be in a sports videography checklist?
Charged batteries, formatted SD cards, internet-tested streaming platform (Resi is a strong pick), clean lenses, stable mounts, and synced audio if recording commentary.
Who usually runs the video setup for game day?
Depends on the program. Usually it’s a team effort—video coordinator, assistant AD, coaching staff, and sometimes student interns or volunteers.
The bottom line:
When the pressure’s on and the clock is ticking, you need gear—and a streaming setup—you can trust. Resi with RSP lets you focus on the game, not the signal.
