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Anonymous
What would be the type of stats I would be looking for on a camera to take pictures of sports with people moving at high speeds? Specifically, I would be taking pictures of fencing, and I would like minimum blur, and to be able to see the weapon. I'm sure I could go pick up an Digital Rebel XTi and get these results, but I wouldn't mind knowing what else I should look at, or if it's just a matter of setting my camera correctly (shutter speed, etc).

Pic related.
>> Anonymous
Any cam can do it with enough light,

since fencing is 90% of the time indoors, You might want to get a DSLR and a prime lens (50mm f1.8 is dirt cheap and very good for low light (And about 15-20 foot range would be good for 2 people fencing)

DSLR's can go higher ISO and autofocus faster and take pictures Faster, so I would recommend a Canon or Nikon, then the 50mm f1.8 for indoor, And if you can get closer there are good lens alternatives, for a really good deal you could pick up the Tokina 28-70 or Tamron 28-75mm f2.8. (Really good compared to the Nikon and Canon equivelants)
>> Anonymous
Maybe add a speedlight to that equation. Fast shutter couple with really large aperture lenses and adding more light wouldn't hurt.
>> Anonymous
Ya if your allowed a flash its always a bonus, Since fencing can involve very high speeds (1/250 and up to eliminate motion blur) A flash might be your only option depending on the lighting.

IF the lighting is good/decent Try using the camera you already have, and crank the ISO up to as high as you can, and your apperature as wide as you can (small F numbers) And see how much motion blur you get with and without flash, then you will get a good idea of what shutter speeds your looking for.
>> Anonymous
Well fencing is a very fast sport, you should be helped somewhat by the padding and the fact it reflects a lot of light. I would just push the shutter speed as small as possible. The main thing is are you intending to shoot sports at an event or will you have a full setup. Becasue im pretty sure if i was in a bout and you set off a flash I'd most likely take my saber to your flash unit.