First off- thanks everybody for the feedback. I tried to use a few tactics in WB and cropping.
I used my 5D Mark II and 35mm 1.4. Boy- my 5D did struggle with focusing. I am only using center point and no AF assist points. It was a bit frustrating but I finally worked around it. 1D4 performed flawlessly with my 35mm 1.4. So who knows?
Anyway, I did eventually work around it, I stepped it down to f/2.0 and used ISO ~4000. Images looks much nicer (color, noise, details) than the ones in the 1D4. The noise level is a huge benefit on a full-framed.
Also, 35mm on a FF is a joy to use especially for basketball! I shot near the hoop. Excellent lens indeed.
A very different look, and one that leaves you feeling like you've been pulled into the action. My only quibble, and it is a big one, is the tilted horizons. Number three feels a bit off and two is in a different reality. With the first I'd suggest cropping from a just a bit to left of 13 in the background. It is a shame that the ball/hoop is out of frame because the shot gives a really nice sense of place. You've got a good idea going here.
Do you ever shoot Cal Softball and/or baseball? I have a friend/ client who has two daughters on the softball team and a son that walked onto the baseball team.... Talk about a talented family!!!!
Thank you for your response and comments. I definitely need to work on framing! I think I need to find a better technique to recompose- as I only have the middle AF point to work with especially at large apertures.
In terms of WB, this is an issue. I used 5200K and it is tricky to get the Kelvins correct. I think I should definitely use a card and find the best white balance.
