Photogs with ear plugs at football games?

lifeinfocus

I took photos at the MSU vs UofM game last Saturday. I noticed that many on field photographers had ear plugs. Besides the fact it can be noisy at a game, is there any other reason that on field photographers use ear plugs? Is it to help concentrate on the visual aspect of the game and festivities?

Phil

cletus

lifeinfocus wrote: »

I took photos at the MSU vs UofM game last Saturday. I noticed that many on field photographers had ear plugs. Besides the fact it can be noisy at a game, is there any other reason that on field photographers use ear plugs? Is it to help concentrate on the visual aspect of the game and festivities?

Phil

My guess would just be for hearing protection. When you first pop plugs in you feel like you can't hear anything. That goes away pretty quick. After a short time (10 minutes or less for me) I can hear everything going on around me, just at a reduced level. Sudden noises that are well above the ambient noise still stand out and tend to be distracting.

BradfordBenn

I work in audio and can tell you that the use of earplugs is highly encouraged at sporting events for various reasons. However you have the main two, protection and concentration. From previous experience I can attest to the fact that it is much easier to concentrate with less background noise. I use them when just working on a construction site.

Also depending on the sporting event the sound of the event/crowd can be louder than a jet engine; really. I was at an NFL game where the continuous ambient noise level was 110dB SPL A weighted with peaks in the 120s. NASCAR/Indy was just plain louder. Damage can start at 85dB SPL based on duration. I have been at concerts where the sound of screaming teenage girls is louder than the PA system (and amazingly painful) so I pretty much always travel with ear plugs.

I would recommend a stop at the local drugstore for the 10 pack of plugs, typically about US$2 and see how it works. I spent $10 for a box of 100 through the Internet once I found them helpful. Also finding the right shape for your ears might take a few tries, so don't be afraid to try a few different kinds.

kbevphoto

I wear them because inevitably, I find myself in front of a loud speaker or near some loud noise that "hurts" and leaves my ears ringing. I totally 2nd the point that the initial decrease in volume goes away. it just takes the "bite" out of the louder noises.

Gary Peterson Photography

I think that may be handy for the next event that I shoot that has "Cheer Sticks" being given to the fans....

rt2photo

I was shooting a recent road race, and was positioned right next to the "cheering crew" - a group of folks with cowbells, whistles and huge lungs. How they made that much noise for 2 solid hours, I have no clue.

Of course, I forgot my plugs. My ears rang all day.