How to Get Better Low-Light Action Shots

Set your camera to its highest ISO setting, usually 3200 or 6400. ISO refers to the sensitivity of your camera's sensor, and the higher the rating, the more sensitive it is to light. This is allows for fast shutter speeds that can freeze action even under poor lighting conditions.

Select a fairly wide aperture, or lens opening. An aperture of f/2.8 or f/4 will let much more light to enter the lens, allowing for a faster shutter speed. On most digital cameras, you can select aperture priority mode ("A" or "Av" on most command dials) to control this setting.

Engage your lens's image stabilizing, or shake reduction, function if you have this feature. This will reduce the amount of detectable blur in your final image. If your lens does not have a small switch that engages this function, you may need to use your camera's digital interface to turn it on.

Mount your camera on a tripod. This will brace your camera and prevent vibration which may cause blurring in your photograph.

Attach an external flash unit to your DSLR if appropriate. If you are using a compact point-and-shoot camera, engage its flash function. While flash is not desirable in some circumstances, it is undoubtedly the best way to freeze action, such as a heated basketball game, in low light. Attach a diffuser to the head of your flash unit to soften shadows and preserve detail in your photos.