How to Photograph a Local Charity Golf Tournament: Tips, Choices, and Capturing the Moment

A charity golf tournament is not just a game—it's a community celebration, a fund-raising phenomenon, and a chance for local sponsors and participants to get their moment in the sun. Capturing the day's essence not only puts the event in the record book but also provides enduring value for donors, volunteers, and organizers. Great photos can be used to promote next year's event, shared on social media, or included in sponsor thank-you packets. But how do you know that you'll get the best shots? Should you spend money or not?

Whether you're organizing your first local tournament or want to upgrade the way you are photographing your event, here's how to approach photographing a charity golf tournament—along with some advantages and disadvantages of using a professional photographer versus finding a volunteer.

Before the Tournament: Preparing for Fantastic Shots

1. Get Familiar with the Story You're Going to Tell

Charity golf tournaments are rife with photo opportunities aside from swings and putts. Think of capturing:

- Smiling teams checking in

- Sponsors' logos and signs

- Spontaneous moments between friends

- Awards and prize giveaways

- Groupings and scenic wide shots of the course

Plan ahead of time what kind of story you would like your picture album to tell. Do you wish it to be loose and jovial, elegant and sophisticated, or a little of both?

2. Create a Shot List

A shot list avoids things that happen from being omitted. Add:

- Registration table activity

- Sponsor booths and banner activity

- Team photos

- Action photographs on the green

- Impromptu crowd shots at lunch or after play

- Closing ceremonies and farewell speech

It's good to have a checklist because it will keep your photographer or volunteer focused and on task.

3. Scout the Course

Knowing the course layout beforehand assists in determining the ideal spots for dynamic, well-lit photographs. Search for picturesque holes, signature elements, and shaded areas for group photos.

During the Tournament: Shooting Like a Pro

1. Use a Mix of Wide and Close-Up Shots

Wide shots reveal the beauty of the course and size of the event. Close shots deliver emotional impact—grinning, high-fives, deeply concentrated players aligning putts. A great photo album includes both.

2. Capture Candid Moments

The best pictures often emerge from unplanned, natural reactions. Be around to laughter, discussion, and interaction that unveil the human nature of the event.

3. Capture Action Shots, Without Being Obtrusive

Golf is a concentration sport. When you're taking photos during swings and putts, stand well back, and don't make sudden shutter clicks or move in a player's direction.

4. Highlight the Cause

It's a *charity* tournament, so keep in mind that it's a good thing you're there. Take photos that highlight the cause—flags, signs, guest speakers, or testimonials. These are worth using for post-event storytelling and promotion.

Post-Tournament: Bringing Home the Bacon

1. Get Organized and Edit in a Hurry

Timing is everything. Participants and sponsors are still enjoying the high of the day, and new photos are most effective within a few days. A fast turnaround allows social media engagement and follow-up emails.

2. Brand the Images (Where Appropriate)

Consider adding a subtle logo or watermark, especially for sponsor images. Just make sure it doesn't detract from the quality or feel of the photo.

3. Share Smartly

Make a group photo album, highlight reel, or short video montage. Be sure to tag sponsors, teams, and influential figures when sharing on social media—it boosts visibility and is a thank-you opportunity.

Volunteer vs. Professional Photographer: What's the Best Choice?

When photographing the event, one of the first decisions is whether to hire a professional or use a volunteer. Both options can be viable—but both have limitations.

Hiring a Professional Photographer

Pros:

-Steady, High-Quality Shots: Professionals have the equipment, experience, and know-how to deliver professional-quality shots under various lighting and weather conditions.

- Event Experience: They have experience with timing, crowd movement, and getting the most significant moments without being obtrusive.

- Professional and Focused: A professional is devoted fully to covering the event. No distractions, no wandering.

- Post-Processing Included: Pictures are often edited, categorized, and sent on schedule, ready for publishing.

Cons:

- Costly: Professionals are expensive, especially for small charity events that are low on finances.

- Limited Availability: Good photographers book up early—especially during peak golf season.

Using a Volunteer Photographer

Pros:

- Cost-Effective: You save money that can be redirected towards the cause.

- Local Engagement: Using a community member (e.g., a student, hobbyist, or friend of the event) can contribute to the grassroots aspect of the event.

- Flexible and Familiar: Volunteers may know participants personally, which can lead to more relaxed and natural photos.

Cons:

- Varied Quality: Even talented amateurs can be short on gear or knowledge to deliver professional quality each time.

- Lost Opportunities: Without a shot list, clear direction, or the limitation of a professional, key moments may be missed.

- Slow Delivery: There are other tasks for volunteers—editing and delivering photos can be weeks long, or maybe not happen at all.

Making the Right Choice for Your Event

If your event is large enough to have significant sponsorship, fundraising potential, or media attention, it's generally worth the money to employ a professional. Good, interesting photography can be reused year after year and will make an enduring impression on your sponsors and potential donors.

If money is tight, a quality volunteer with a plan and shot list can still get you a good quality of images—but plan on having to be more hands-on in the process.

Conclusion: Let Us Help You Capture It Right

At We Snap Golf, we specialize in taking local charity and amateur golf tournaments in style, professionalism, and an intimate familiarity with the game. We know how to tell the whole story—from the thoughtful focus on the green to the grins at the 18th hole. If you're sponsoring a fundraiser for a local cause or a yearly community tournament, our crew is here to help your memories be respected.

If you're organizing a tournament and want photos that reflect the spirit of your event, We Snap Golf would be honored to help. Let's make it picture-perfect.