Looking for better photos

[cmcm789]

I'm looking to improve on my photos. I attend races (running) throughout the year to watch mainly, but enjoy taking my Canon 60D and 55-250mm (usually) to record the runners for all to view/ download on flickr as they wish.

The problem I have is a slight softness of the details in my photos. Given the light I shoot wide open on my 55-250mm as in winter I need the ISO up to 3200 on very overcast days. In PP (lightroom) I try to sharpen conservatively. See example below:
Lurgan XC 2014IMG_4792 by cmcm789, on Flickr

My question is, would I get more benefit out of upgrading my lens to a 70-200 f4 or changing settings. The settings I am thinking about are to up the shutter speed to maybe 1/1000, but personally I think the photos are soft and not blurred, just need confirmation one way or another.

I know I would benefit significantly from the USM focusing as the 55-250 can be horrendous near the 250mm and also I would have an extra stop of light meaning a faster shutter if needed.

Any advice appreciated.
Thanks

 

[KIPAX]

Given the light I shoot wide open on my 55-250mm as in winter I need the ISO up to 3200 on very overcast days.

and

I am thinking about are to up the shutter speed to maybe 1/1000,

if your using iso 3200 now.. and your wide open.. what do you think happens if you increase the shutter.. your alreadf wide open .. you would need to up the iso even more thus degrading the picture even more..



You have practically answered the question yourself.. your trying to get perfect pictures on what can only be descibed as a cheap lens.. get the 70-200 f4 and you will see a massive improvement...

 

[cmcm789]

You have practically answered the question yourself.. your trying to get perfect pictures on what can only be descibed as a cheap lens.. get the 70-200 f4 and you will see a massive improvement...

Advice taken and appreciated. 70-200 f4 ordered.

 

[Mozziephotography]

I have a Nikon D7000 and take photos at cycling and running events. I have 50mm and 105mm prime lenses. 90% of the time I use the 50mm 1.8 It might be restricting, but it really make me think about where to position myself during the race. Strangely, some of my best shots seem to be with the ISO set to 3200. Looked at the Nikkor 24-70mm f2.8 but at nearly £1000 second-hand, I'd really need to know if it was useful.