What were those things?

As I was watching an EPL game the camera panned the photographer's
bay. There were several shooters there with an assortment of huge lenses
with pro cameras. On some of the cameras there were 'add-ons' that
looked like small walkie-talkies or large cell phones with stubby aerials.
What were those things and what is thier purpose?

 

Aha! So the controlled environment of the studio comes to the aid of the
shooters working very hard to increase the odds of getting a money shot.
I try to be aware of the advances in technology and technique but they
flood all aspects of work, play and life in general and I often get left behind.

Sometimes I could care less though, because I am pleased with what I
have already. And sometimes I feel like I going to meet myself coming
around a corner.

 

Nice avatar indeed. Keeping track of technology in photography, trying
to rein in lens lust and camera dreams can keep you very busy.
Musicians have the same challenges and learning curves all neatly
summarized as GAS (gear acquisition syndrome). A Goldtop with a
Blackface Twin and a Sparkle Drive....and a D200 with...
Gotta stop before I get into the cars, bikes, fly rods, telescopes...