I have also photographed swimmers for many years (definitely not 30, though!). Indoor pool lighting is rarely good, so a faster lens is always better. I agree with Gorzek about shooting at deck level. This gives a better perspective, but I realize that spectators are not always allowed there (depending upon the meet). If your team is hosting an event and you (as a parent?) are required to work, you can often get special permission to be on deck. I shoot with a D750 and usually my 28-300 lens and try to have a shutter speed of at least 1/250. Since it is not the fastest lens, I have to increase ISO. Here's an indoor sample at ISO 800, but I really prefer the outdoor meets!

Thank you everyone for your comments. I too struggled with the vignetting. I had it in, then took it out, then made numerous adjustments, etc. So, what you see was basically a flip of a coin for the final decision. And thanks Dave for the heads up on the photography show! I actually live in Sioux Falls, so Brookings is a short drive.

I'm looking for suggestions on this photo. As you can see, it was taken looking into the sun near sunset, while using the "weeds" to block the direct sun. I liked the texture of these weeds due to their fine, hair-like structure and the way the sun made them glisten. Is there anything else I could do from an editing standpoint or for another shoot to improve this? Thanks.

Great idea rgrenaderphoto. Here's my attempt at B&W. I added a little more contrast to sky.

After reading many of your posts and viewing photos, I thought it was time to introduce myself. I'm a photography hobbyist and have been shooting with a DSLR for about 4 years. I began shooting with a Nikon D5100 and now have a D750. My photography journey started when I wanted to take better pictures of my two sons. Both were competitive swimmers and one was an avid runner - track and cross country, so I had to learn quickly how to shoot action in many different lighting situations. I still enjoy shooting sporting events - volleyball, basketball, soccer, and now archery. I love landscape, plant, flower photography and am now attempting portraits. It's fun to look back at past pictures and see my growth, but I know I have a long way to go. Always something to "shoot" for, right? I look forward to all feedback and constructive criticism of any of my future posts. Most of you are so very kind. I will apologize now for any newbee mistakes I make in this forum. Attached is one of my landscape pix from this summer.