Preparing for the Big Day


I've been training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) for 12 years to date and have been a professional photographer for over 15. Of course covering BJJ tournaments is a blissful marriage of both my passions. I’m meticulous, obsessing over details to capture exactly what I need and always aiming to present my best work. Typically, I shoot for around 5 hours, often with only a quick 15-minute break. This level of efficiency requires more than good gear—it demands careful preparation and strategic planning.



I’ve been the principal photographer for Copa Events for several years now. I’ve refined my approach, and today, I want to share exactly what gear I pack for each tournament.

Essential Gear: What's in My Camera Bag



  • Camera: Canon R5 Mark II – Yes, I know it's not the R3 or the R1, dedicated for sports photography. I also shoot portraits and brand photography, and need a camera to function as my workhorse. I choose this camera for its lightning-fast autofocus and exceptional low-light performance—critical, especially for indoor gym settings like Copa/IBJJF tournaments.

  • Lens: 70-200mm f/2.8 – Perfect for tight framing and isolating moments in match.

  • Secondary Lens (Optional): 28-70mm f/2 – Great for capturing wider shots of the environment, crowd reactions, and podium shots.

  • DJI Osmo Pocket: Mounted on top for seamless video alongside still photography – This allows me to simultaneously create video content for same-day social media posting. Event promoters appreciate real-time video as it enhances viewer engagement by showcasing the event atmosphere.
Large black Husky tool chest drawer with golf bags and equipment stored on top showing club heads and storage organization.

Camera Settings


  • Shutter Speed: 1/250

  • Aperture: f/3.2

  • ISO: 3200

  • Autofocus Mode: Continuous tracking (Servo AF)

  • Drive Mode: High-speed continuous shooting
Two wrestlers grapple during an intense high school match as spectators watch from the sidelines.
Two martial artists in white gis grappling during competition as referee watches near yellow barriers on gymnasium floor.
Two athletes compete on a blue mat during a jiu-jitsu tournament as officials observe from the sidelines.
Two athletes grappling during a wrestling match with yellow barriers visible in the background.

Capturing Video and Photos Simultaneously


Mounting a DJI Osmo Pocket on my camera gives me the ability to quickly capture short videos without interrupting the photography workflow. Video clips add a dynamic layer to social media posts, helping viewers feel immersed in the event, which promoters and audiences love.


A DSLR camera with mounted flash is held at a gym with yellow barriers and blue mats visible in the background.

The Workflow: Staying Efficient and Effective


Arrive Early: Check lighting conditions and finalize camera settings. Also give me the opportunity to capture establishing shots of the venue and staff.


Planning Shots: Identify key matches and moments ahead of time.


Real-Time Edits: Immediate social media posting during breaks is a service offering I've been contemplating. Absolutely requires planning posts ahead of time. The most recent event, Copa VA May 10th, I was lucky enough to have an intern working with me. I would give her the SD card, and dump the JPGs. She would sort and organize the stills for each post we planned out. A two person job for sure.

Anticipating Needs and Challenges


I've competed and captured photos at many IBJJF comps, one thing I can always count on is horrible lighting. Don’t be afraid to increase your ISO. Higher ISO settings might introduce noise, but in action photography, this ‘grit’ can complement the intensity of the moments captured.


Batteries. After more than 6 hours, I typically end up with over 1100 photos. During that period, I’ll change batteries at least twice. I always carry three extra batteries and a charger as a precaution, although I’ve yet to need the charger.


Physical fatigue is real. Even if you’re not competing, your body will feel the strain from crouching and constantly moving. To stay sharp, I bring a cooler with sparkling water, energy drinks, and high-energy snacks.

 

The One Piece of Gear You Absolutely Need


Over the years, I've refined my gear setup significantly. But there's one piece of equipment I absolutely won't go without, a game-changer! I initially overlooked this essential piece of kit until I forgot it once and truly paid the price...



Portable black camping stool sits on blue wrestling mat in gymnasium with yellow railings visible in background.

Collapsible Swivel Stool


After hours on your feet, sitting on the ground, capturing thousands of shots, your body takes a toll. This lightweight, foldable swivel stool saves your knees and keeps you sharp throughout the tournament. Fellow photographers always give it a curious glance, then immediate respect. Trust me, your future self will thank you.

 

 

Gear Up and Shoot with Confidence


Shooting BJJ tournaments is uniquely challenging yet incredibly rewarding. With the right gear, preparation, and strategies, you’ll not only capture amazing shots but also enjoy the experience. Want to see how it all comes together? Check out my full Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu photo galleries here. Now gear up, get out there, and shoot confidently

 

Visit My BJJ Gallery
Two martial artists in white gis grappling during competition as referee watches near yellow barriers on gymnasium floor.