Event & Sports Photographer from UK - Michael Berkeley 

From Local Fields to 40+ Sports: A Photographer’s Story 

In this conversation with Michael Berkeley, we unpack what it really takes to build a meaningful career in sports photography—starting later in life and still going on to cover 40+ sports. He shares why unpredictability sits at the heart of the craft, how preparation quietly decides success on any assignment, and what separates a strong portfolio from everything else. We also touch on his grounded views on career growth, pricing realities, and how photographers can stay relevant in a landscape increasingly shaped by rapid technological change.

About Michael Berkeley

Michael Berkeley is a freelance sports and event photographer who began his serious photography journey in his mid-50s. Over the past decade, he has built a diverse portfolio covering more than 40 sports, along with work at schools and music venues. His approach is grounded in preparation, adaptability, and storytelling, with a strong emphasis on capturing authentic, real-time emotion in unpredictable environments. He continues to stay engaged with the craft while maintaining a practical, grounded perspective on the photography industry.

Q1 Where did you start your journey in photography? Which Company which genre (Sports/wedding/lifestyle/product)?

Although I have had a camera for as long as I can remember, I didn’t start more seriously until in my mid-50s.  I started photographing as a freelance photographer for local sports clubs, for a couple of schools nearbyand also at a local music venue.  In the last 10 years or so, I have covered over 40 different sports and still enjoy the variety that event photography provides.

Q2 What Do you like most about Sports Photography? Which Other Genre Do you like the Most

It’s not just the variety, it’s also the fact that it’s totally unpredictable – you never know what’s going to happen and that provides a huge challenge because you have to react to changing circumstances and also interpret the story as it’s unfolding in front of you.  I also love photographing at music venues, but don’t do so much these days.

Q3 Any mistakes which you had learned the most from? Can be technical as well as Practical mistakes related to photography?

No, not really.  The trick is to be fully prepared before heading out on assignment, not just to understand your kit so that you can make technical adjustments without thinking, but also to research the sport and the event itself so that there are no surprises.  Preparation is everything.

Q4 Any Tips for Sports Photographers Starting their Journey?

It’s essential to build up an impressive portfolio of images and to display them on a well-designed website.  Rember that ‘less is more’, so only include the best of your best and focus on quality and not quantity.  You can then demonstrate to prospective clients that you are competent and that their assignment is safe in your hands.

Q5 Any YouTube / Instagram Channels or Photographers You follow the Most?

I follow Jared Polin (FroKnowsPhoto) mainly to keep up to date with equipment news, and also Mark Galer, the Australian Sony Ambassador, so that I get the most out of my cameras.  Bob Martin is also worth following – a top, top sports photographer.

Q6 Any Financial Advice on photographers Struggling to Stay Afloat?

I work on the basis that it’s better to have a larger number of slightly less well paid jobs than a smaller number of higher paid jobs.  This is a complex issue, however, because there is a risk that you therefore undersell yourself – and also undercut other photographers.  

Q7Any Tips on How to reach the Big Leagues In Sports Photography? Like Olympics/ FIFA/ ICC events?

I have no desire to ‘reach the big leagues’.  I would prefer to operate at a lower level and enjoy my photography, without the stress that the highly competitive environment at the highest levels would bring.  That way, I am able to bring the most enjoyment to the greatest number of people – and it’s most rewarding being a ‘big fish in a smaller pond’.

Q8 Everyone Want reels these days? Do you Think Photography is no longer in Demand?

Photography is clearly mutating as AI developments change the landscape.  That may have more of an effect on other types of photography (fashion maybe?) but there will still be a need for somebody who is able to report from a live game and convey the drama and emotion of actual events in a way that AI is unlikely ever to be able to do (probably!).

Final Thoughts

A central takeaway from Michael’s perspective is that preparation and consistency matter more than chasing high-profile assignments. Building a selective, high-quality portfolio and mastering technical fundamentals are essential for long-term credibility. He also highlights the importance of sustainability over prestige—focusing on steady work, enjoying the process, and adapting to industry changes like AI, while still valuing the irreplaceable human ability to capture live emotion and real-world storytelling.