Photographing the NFL - Year II

The NFL is King in the landscape of sports in North America. Every game matters and on any given Sunday (or Monday, Thursday or Saturday and sometimes Tuesday’s) the team that’s favorited to win can lose. Television broadcasts tell the story of the game in live action, but on the field, during the game photographers also help to tell the games narrative. 

Photographing an NFL is a ton of fun and a very cool thing to put on your resume, but it’s also a ton of work, fun work, but work, nonetheless. This is my second season having the privilege of shooting NFL games. My first season, last year, all photographers were relegated to shoot from the stands which had its own set of challenges. Still cool to shoot the games, but totally different from shooting games with fans in the stands and being on the field. The energy and atmosphere with fans in the stands is amazing. In this post I’ll layout some things that I’ve learned, my thought process and workflow during a game. 

Equipment prep

The night before the game, I do an equipment check, charge my batteries, make sure all my memory cards are clean and that all my gear is packed. The other thing I like to do is to make sure most of my workflow for transmitting images is created. I use PhotoMechanic for image transmission. In PhotoMechanic I use Code Replacements and Autocomplete to help reduce the time it takes to caption images. I make sure all these items are in the clear and ready to go the night before the game, so that when It’s game day all I have to do is grab my stuff and leave the house.  

Arrive Early

The first rule to any job is to be ON TIME! But how early should you arrive? Most NFL teams allow the media to arrive to the stadium 3-4 hours before kick-off. For a 1 o’clock game, I typically leave my house at 9am. I arrive at the stadium at 9:30 or so. Why so early? There are few things you must consider:

1. Traffic- You have no idea what traffic is going to look like heading to the stadium. Tailgaters typically arrive early. You can be two minutes from the field and traffic leading to the stadium can add an extra 30 minutes when you’re only a mile away from your destination. You also have to account for parking, credential pick-up and if you’re hungry…food. Most all stadiums in the NFL provide the media food and drink.

2. Setup- Now that you’ve arrived at the stadium, you have to setup all your gear and your computer. I carry three camera bodies and four lenses on me for every game, that takes time to setup. One of the most important things I do before I hit the field is to review my shot list. This is a list of players that my editor has given me to get images of certain players throughout the game. 

3. Warm-ups- The action during the game is not the only thing that matters. Matter of fact the action images only have a lifespan of 24 hours before they’re likely never seen again. They’re cool to get but as a photographer that’s not your only duty. Players typically hit the field in shorts and tees at 10:30am…not all players but some. Go out and make images of players getting loose who are not yet in uniform.

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Carson Wentz does drills during pre-game warm-ups before an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Monday, Oct. 11, 2021, in Baltimore, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson jogs during pre-game warm-ups while wearing a Free Odell tee-shirt before an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Nov. 7, 2021, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Pre-game/Player Introductions

Players typically come out in uniforms an hour in a half before the game time. This is a great time to start going through that shot list and capture images of players on that list. Get as many players as you can even if they aren’t on the list. You never know when that image you took will be needed for an article, possibly that week or years down the line.  

After the players warm-up in uniforms and go back into the locker room, it’s time for player introductions. Be creative as your access allows to make interesting images. I say be creative as your access allows because this year only league photographers and team photographers are allowed on the field of play before and after games for the teams that I covered, nonetheless, you can still make interesting images. 

Pittsburgh Steelers fans hold signs and jerseys for quarterback Ben Roethlisberger who may retire at the end of this season, before an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Jan. 9, 2022, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Washington Football Team defensive end Chase Young (99) looks on during pre-game warm-ups before an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Nov. 14, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. looks on during pre-game warm-ups before an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Jan. 2, 2022, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman (12) runs on to the field during pre-game player introductions before an NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings, Sunday, Nov. 7, 2021, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) runs out of the tunnel during player introductions before an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Sunday, Sept. 19, 2021, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Game time!!

Now it’s time for the game. You’ve already been at the stadium three hours and trust me, those three hours go by fast, but you know what goes by even faster? The game itself. Cover the entire game and not just the offensive possessions. Find areas with unique vantage points where other photographers aren’t, feel when the momentum shifts, take gambles with angles or positioning and by all means don’t just follow the ball, focus solely on the defense for a few possessions - get creative with it. And remember, you have a shot list that was given to you prior to the game, make sure you get those players.

There’s so much that happens during a game, during plays, between plays, player celebrations, on the sidelines, in the stands – all these variables should be accounted for. Action is cool but it isn’t the only thing that should be covered. If your game take is all ball action, you’re likely missing a lot of shots.

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Tyreek Hill (10) does a back flip after scoring a fourth quarter touchdown during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) passes the ball to wide receiver Ben Skowronek (18) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Jan. 2, 2022, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker T.J. Watt (90) reacts to forcing a fumble that was recovered by Pittsburgh during the first quarter of an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Jan. 9, 2022, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Dallas Cowboys outside linebacker Micah Parsons (11) in action against Washington Football Team guard Brandon Scherff (75) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 12, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball against Washington Football Team cornerback Bobby McCain (20) during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Baltimore Ravens defensive end Calais Campbell (93) looks on between plays during the first half of an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams, Sunday, Jan. 2, 2022, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Washington Football Team defensive end Chase Young (99) is helped off the field after an apparent leg injury during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Nov. 14, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Baltimore Ravens tight end Mark Andrews (89) looks on after an incomplete pass during overtime of an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Sunday, Jan. 9, 2022, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Baltimore Ravens cornerback Brandon Stephens (21) in action against Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Dan Chisena (85) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 7, 2021, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Washington Football Team tight end Ricky Seals-Jones catches fourth quarter touchdown against New York Giants cornerback Adoree' Jackson (22) during an NFL football game, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Kansas City Chiefs defensive back Juan Thornhill (22) tackles Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Game Over

I primarily photograph the Baltimore Ravens. There were at least six games that came down to the last play or overtime game winning drives. Just when you thought the game was over, it wasn’t. Catch the game winning play if you’re in position to catch it, if not the reaction shots are sometimes better shots than the play itself. Find an interesting perspective that shows the emotion of how the game ended.

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Marquise Brown (5) catches a game winning overtime touchdown against Indianapolis Colts defensive back George Odum (30) during an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 11, 2021, in Baltimore, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Marquise Brown (5) is picked up by center Bradley Bozeman (77) after scoring a game winning overtime touchdown during an NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts, Monday, Oct. 11, 2021, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor walks off the field after an overtime loss to the Baltimore Ravens in an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 11, 2021, in Baltimore, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Baltimore Ravens place kicker Justin Tucker (9) raises the ball after kicking a game winning field goal in overtime to victory against the Minnesota Vikings after an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 7, 2021, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin, masked, reacts to an overtime game-winning kick by kicker Chris Boswell after an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Jan. 9, 2022, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Transmitting images

The most important thing you before the game, during the game and after the game is transmit and caption your images immediately. As stated earlier, I use PhotoMechanic to caption and transmit images. During the game I’ll tag the images that I perceive are my best shots from the game and ingest those locked files for captioning.

If you’ve done all your leg work prior to the game (See Equipment Prep section) all you have to do now is ingest your images, edit, caption and transmit. Simple enough, but very important. This can be a tedious task. Be sure to proofread and review your captions before you transmit your images.  One thing of note, editing for a wire service consist of cropping and very minimal color adjustment. At no time should you change/alter the integrity of the original image, that’s a definite no-no! 

The media workroom at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore.

Well that’s it! I hope this post sheds light on the day and flow of photographing an NFL game. It’s a long, fun and exciting day. Be creative.  

Year One Shooting the NFL

2020 was a weird year to say the least. I don’t need to go into great detail but as you know, there was and is a global pandemic that has altered everyone’s life in some way shape or form. 2020 for the vast majority of people was a shitty year. I was however, fortunate enough to get the opportunity to shoot the Baltimore Ravens for the Associated Press. Let me just say, as weird as this year was, this was one of the few highlights of this year. I had a blast. Due to COVID, all photographers were only allowed to shoot from the stands so the vantage points were different and maneuvering between seats from one end of the field to another was challenging. All in all I learned a ton and I feel like my sets improved each game. The game itself without fans in the stadium (with the exception of two games) was unlike anything I’d ever seen. The energy was really different and the canned sound effects took some getting used to.

For the games I used three Nikon D5’s paired with a Nikon 300mm f/2.8 with a 1.4 teleconverter, Nikon 400mm f/2.8 also with a 1.4 teleconverter and a 70-200mm f/2.8. Here are some of the images I was able to capture this year.

The Baltimore Ravens run onto the field during team introductions before an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Monday, Sept. 28, 2020, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Cardboard cutouts sit in the stands at M&T Bank Stadium before an NFL football game between the Baltimore Ravens and the Kansas City Chiefs, Monday, Sept. 28, 2020, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

A rainbow stretches along the outside of M&T Bank Stadium before an NFL football game between the Baltimore Ravens and the Kansas City Chiefs, Monday, Sept. 28, 2020, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Baltimore Ravens players and coaches kneel during the playing of the National Anthem before an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Baltimore Ravens defensive end Calais Campbell (93) delivers pre-game speech before an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2020, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) attempts pass during the second half of an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Nov. 1, 2020, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) is sacked by Baltimore Ravens cornerback Marcus Peters (24) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Baltimore Ravens running back Mark Ingram (21) runs the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Baltimore Ravens defensive end Calais Campbell (93) defends a pass attempt from Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 1, 2020, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Keelan Cole Sr. (84) catches the ball against Baltimore Ravens cornerback Tramon Williams (29) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 20, 2020, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Tennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) scores game winning touchdown in overtime during an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2020, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) passes the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the New York Giants, Sunday, Dec. 27, 2020, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Dez Bryant (88) celebrates second half touchdown during an NFL football game against the New York Giants, Sunday, Dec. 27, 2020, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Marquise Brown (15) catches the ball against Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Greg Mabin (34) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 20, 2020, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Baltimore Ravens linebacker Matthew Judon (99) celebrates safety sack with cornerback Marlon Humphrey (44) during the first half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Sunday, Dec. 20, 2020, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Baltimore Ravens tight end Mark Andrews (89) competes for the ball against New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 27, 2020, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) runs the ball for a first half touchdown during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2020, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Baltimore Ravens running back Gus Edwards (35) runs the ball against New York Giants defensive tackle B.J. Hill (95) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 27, 2020, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Titan'up! Tennessee Rolls Past Baltimore To The AFC Championship

For my first NFL Playoff game I had the opportunity to shoot the Tennessee Titans versus the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, MD. I was hired to cover the Titans for a news outlet in Tennessee. The Ravens were heavy favorites coming into the game but you wouldn’t know that by the outcome and the final score. Tennessee came into Baltimore to stop Lamar Jackson and the Ravens with the final score of 28-12. Here are some of the images I was able to make during the game. All shots taken with Nikon D5’s along with Nikkor 400mm f/2.8, 70-200mm f/2.8 and 24-70mm f/2.8 lenses.

Tennessee Titans quarterback Ryan Tannehill (17) celebrates touchdown run during the third quarter of the AFC Divisional Playoffs against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, MD. (Photo by Terrance Williams)

Tennessee Titans quarterback Ryan Tannehill (17) passes the ball during the first quarter of the AFC Divisional Playoffs against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, MD. (Photo by Terrance Williams)

Tennessee Titans tight end Jonnu Smith (81) makes one handed touchdown catch against Baltimore Ravens cornerback Brandon Carr (39) during the first quarter of the AFC Divisional Playoffs at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, MD. (Photo by Terrance Williams)

Tennessee Titans tight end Jonnu Smith (81) makes one handed touchdown catch against Baltimore Ravens cornerback Brandon Carr (39) during the first quarter of the AFC Divisional Playoffs at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, MD. (Photo by Terrance Williams)

Tennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) stiff arms Baltimore Ravens free safety Earl Thomas (29) during the second quarter of the AFC Divisional Playoffs at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, MD. (Photo by Terrance Williams)

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) is scared by Tennessee Titans defensive end Jurrell Casey (99)during the second quarter of the AFC Divisional Playoffs against the Tennessee Titans at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, MD. (Photo by Terrance Williams)

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) runs the ball during the second quarter of the AFC Divisional Playoffs against the Tennessee Titans at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, MD. (Photo by Terrance Williams)

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Willie Snead (83) is tackled by Tennessee Titans cornerback Logan Ryan (26) during the third quarter of the AFC Divisional Playoffs at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, MD. (Photo by Terrance Williams)

Tennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) carries the ball during the third quarter of the AFC Divisional Playoffs at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, MD. (Photo by Terrance Williams)

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) is sacked, which resulted in a fumble by Tennessee Titans defensive end Jurrell Casey (99) during the third quarter of the AFC Divisional Playoffs at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, MD. (Photo by Terrance Williams)

Tennessee Titans defensive end Jurrell Casey (99) celebrates strip sack with Wesley Woodyard (59) during the third quarter of the AFC Divisional Playoffs against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, MD. (Photo by Terrance Williams)

Tennessee Titans wide receiver Corey Davis (84) catches touchdown pass thrown by running back Derrick Henry (not pictured) over Baltimore Ravens free safety Earl Thomas (29) during the third quarter of the AFC Divisional Playoffs at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, MD. (Photo by Terrance Williams)

Tennessee Titans inside linebacker Wesley Woodyard (59) celebrates with fans after defeating the Baltimore Ravens after in the AFC Divisional Playoffs at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, MD. (Photo by Terrance Williams)

Behind the scenes with the Brooklynettes

In late August I got to assist Sports Illustrated photographer Michael LeBrecht while he was commissioned to shoot the Brooklynettes dance team in Brooklyn, NY at Barclays Center. If you aren’t aware of Michael’s work you can see check out all of his awesome work here: https://www.michaellebrecht.com . Michael is and amazing photographer and a great guy. I’ve learned a lot from him just watching him work, talking to him and picking his brain. I also got to meet Carlos Miguel who’s another photographer with Sports Illustrated. Miguel is a great dude too, his work can be seen here: http://www.miguelphotos.com .

For this shoot I helped setup lights and props…the technical for that is a Grip. We started at 8am and the shoot lasted until 8pm. It was a lot of work, but fun work and a great learning experience. By the end of the shoot I was barely able to walk, my feet were on fire and I needed a bed. In between helping setup lights and props I was able to get some behind the scenes shots of Michael and the Brooklynettes in action. I learned a lot and had a great time. Here are some the shots I captured from that day.

Michael LeBrecht reviews images with Brooklynettes dancer

Brooklynettes dancers get makeup before yearly team photos.

Brooklynettes dancer receives final touch-ups before team photos.

Micheal LeBrecht photographs Brooklynettes dancer during yearly team photoshoot.

Micheal LeBrecht photographs Brooklynettes dancer during yearly team photoshoot.

Micheal LeBrecht photographs Brooklynettes dancer during yearly team photoshoot.

Shooting San Diego with the Nikon Z6

I recently took a short vacation to San Diego, CA. San Diego is one of my favorite places to visit. The beaches, the food, the scenery, the chill vibe, the scenic landscapes along with the majestic California sunsets make San Diego ideal for photography of all kinds.

Two months ago I purchased a Nikon Z6. The Z6 is a fun camera and the first mirrorless camera I’ve ever purchased. All of my other camera bodies are Nikon D5’s, which for traveling on vacation can be cumbersome and since the D5’s body is so big and heavy they’re very noticeable. I shoot primarily sports so my D5’s aren’t going anywhere and this post isn’t to compare the D5 to the Z6. Its more so for you to judge for yourself whether or not its good purchase for whatever kind of photos you choose to make. So, about the Z6, its lightweight, focuses well, has image stabilization builtin to the body, you can set the shutter to silent which is pretty awesome because if you’re shooting an event where the event coordinator doesn’t want to a lot of noise this feature definitely comes in handy. The other cool feature is you can see what the image looks like before you click the shutter either through the view finder or live view. Its good in lowlight, not great. The one downside I’ve seen with this body is that when you shoot RAW faces tend to have a green hue in natural light. I don’t if it’s just my body that does that, it could be, but that just something I noticed when in RAW. JPG images on the other hand are true to tone. Another downside is the camera goes to sleep when it isn’t consistently in use. You can miss a shot because the camera takes a few seconds to wake from sleep mode. Sleep mode can be adjusted in the settings however, its set to sleep by default. I don’t have that issue with my DSLR.

All of the images shot in this post were shot using the Nikkor 24-70mm F4 S and the Nikkor 35mm 1.8 S. Both are mirrorless lenses.

Overall I like the Z6. Its great as a travel camera…do I know if its the best mirrorless camera on the market? Nope, never shot with another mirrorless camera manufacturer to know if it is or not. I’m satisfied with its overall perfomance. It does what I need it to do. I haven’t tried to shoot sports with it yet to know how well it performs so I can’t comment on that.

On to the images! I wanted to capture the majestic sunsets, the beach and a few landscape shots. Full disclosure, the images posted have been minimally color corrected in Lightroom to add more pop. Feel free to shoot me a message if you have more questions about the Z6. I’d be happy to answer.

NOTE: All images were taken with S-series mirrorless lenses. That was done purposely to see how well the S-series lenses work with the Z-series body. You can use your traditional Nikkor lenses with the Z-series mirrorless body as long as you have the Nikon mount adapter. What I’ve found using traditional Nikkor FX lenses is that focusing is a tab bit slower. Quality appears to about the same. Stay posted I’ll likely post a blog using Nikkor FX lenses on a Z-series mirrorless body.

A couple watches the sunset on La Jolla beach in San Diego, CA.

A surfer brings his surf board to shore at La Jolla beach in San Diego, CA.

A man feeds a Seagull at La Jolla cove in San Diego, CA.

Sunset on Neptune Ave with the Pacific Ocean in the background near Windansea Beach in San Diego, CA.

Sunset on Neptune Avenue near Windansea beach in San Diego, CA.

Men play soccer while the sun sets at Windansea Beach in San Diego, CA.

Sunset at Windansea Beach in San Diego, CA.

California sky during sunset at Windansea Beach in San Diego, CA.

People sit on benches during sunset at Windansea Beach in San Diego, CA.

Beach goers enjoy the sun at Windansea Beach in San Diego, CA.

Palm trees and the sun at Windansea Beach in San Diego, CA.

Sunset at La Jolla beach in San Diego, CA

People watch the sunset at La Jolla beach in San Diego, CA.

Apollo 11's 50th Anniversary.

Living in the DC area has its perks. This week marks the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11’s voyage to the Moon. For that occasion the rocket in which Astronauts Neil Armstrong, Mike Collins and Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin flew to the Moon (Apollo 11) was projected on the Washington Monument from July 17th thru the 20th. The projection culminated in a simulated rocket launch on the Monument. Here are some pictures I made during the event.

Spectators take pictures of a projection of rocket Apollo 11 onto the Washington Monument on Thursday July 18th, 2019.

Spectators sit on the National Mall lawn and watch a projection of rocket Apollo 11 onto the Washington Monument on Thursday July 18th, 2019.

Spectators pose in front of a projection of rocket Apollo 11 onto the Washington Monument on Thursday July 18th, 2019

The National Museum of African American History and Culture (left) and Apollo 11 projected onto the Washington Monument (right) on Thursday July 18th, 2019.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture (left) and Apollo 11 projected onto the Washington Monument (right) on Thursday July 18th, 2019.

Apollo 11 projection takes off to the Moon on Saturday July 20th, 2019.

Alt-Right rally, Antifa and a Protest

I live in the Washington, DC area. There are protest here all the time. DCPD does a real good job of crowd control and keeping everyone safe. I decided to go down to this protest after I read about it on social media the morning of the protest. Apparently the Alt-Right gained a permit to hold a rally…you know what, the entire even was weird. I’ll let the pictures do the talking. All rights reserved on the images, which means don’t try to use them without permission.

Counter Antifa protestors gather in DC streets

Trump agitator and Antifa protestor clash in DC streets

Trump supporter confronts woman in the streets of DC.

Counter Antifa protestors march the streets of DC.

DCPD stand behind barriers

Alt-Rally protestor flashes white power sign as rally ends.

GGG at MSG, NYC

Since I’ve started in the world of Sports Photography, people often ask do I root for certain teams or certain athletes. The answer is always no, I like whichever player or team will give me the shot that I’m looking for, for the event i’m covering. I don’t care who wins or loses. I’m just looking to make a few good pictures.

In the world of Boxing and when it comes to Gennadiy Gennadyevich Golovkin aka GGG all of that goes out the window. I’m a huge GGG fan. He’s primarily the reason I got into shooting sports. This all came into focus for me on October 17th, 2015 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, where I saw GGG defeat another one of my favorite boxers David Lemieux. It was after that fight that I said “You know what, I want to shoot sports”.

Fast forward to April of 2019. I get an email from one of the photo editors at Zuma Press telling me the upcoming GGG fight was available and asking me if I wanted to shoot it…my answer, absolutely! I got in contact with some of the people at DAZN, the network that had the fight…by the way, the people at DAZN are super nice, I mean everyone was really cool from the media relations folks to the cameramen to the makeup artist as well as the on-air talent everyone there is top notch. After contacting DAZN I filled out the credentials form on the promoters site and a few months later I got an email stating my credentials were approved. Cool! So I travel up to New York expecting to shoot from the upper level…NOPE they had me on the floor! Ringside! First time ever shooting ringside. I was ready and hyped. All the fights from the GGG vs. Rolls card were high quality with good action and the main event didn’t disappoint either. Here’s some shots of the action from the GGG vs. Rolls fight. GGG won the fight by knockout in the fourth round.

Super Middleweight boxing: Gennadiy Golovkin stands in his corner before fight against Steve Rolls at Madison Square Garden New York, NY.

Super Middleweight boxing: Gennadiy Golovkin (red trunks) vs. Steve Rolls (white trunks) at Madison Square Garden New York, NY.

Super Middleweight boxing: Gennadiy Golovkin (red trunks) vs. Steve Rolls (white trunks) at Madison Square Garden New York, NY.

Super Middleweight boxing: Gennadiy Golovkin (red trunks) vs. Steve Rolls (white trunks) at Madison Square Garden New York, NY.

Super Middleweight boxing: Gennadiy Golovkin (red trunks) vs. Steve Rolls (white trunks) at Madison Square Garden New York, NY.

Super Middleweight boxing: Gennadiy Golovkin (red trunks) vs. Steve Rolls (white trunks) at Madison Square Garden New York, NY.

Super Middleweight boxing: Gennadiy Golovkin (red trunks) vs. Steve Rolls (white trunks) at Madison Square Garden New York, NY.

Super Middleweight boxing: Gennadiy Golovkin (red trunks) lands knockout jab to Steve Rolls (white trunks) at Madison Square Garden New York, NY.

Super Middleweight boxing: Gennadiy Golovkin (red trunks) knocks out Steve Rolls (white trunks) during the fourth round at Madison Square Garden New York, NY.

Super Middleweight boxing: Gennadiy Golovkin (red trunks) knocks out Steve Rolls (white trunks) during the fourth round at Madison Square Garden New York, NY.

Super Middleweight boxing: Gennadiy Golovkin (red trunks) reacts to fourth round knockout of Steve Rolls during the fourth round at Madison Square Garden New York, NY.

Lacrosse Shooters Wanted

Before this year I had never shot Lacrosse, seen Lacrosse, knew anything about the rules or positions. All of which is weird because I live in Maryland (but grew up in DC and lived in Prince Georges County) and if you live in Maryland you know that the most popular sport in Maryland by long stretch amongst Prep and Collegiate athletes is Lacrosse. If you don’t believe me checkout all of the top ranked Colleges and Universities in Lacrosse all of them have players from Maryland high schools. So when I was assigned my first Lacrosse game by one of the papers I shoot for I basically had no idea what I was doing.

The premise I follow with most all sports I shoot is: Follow the ball, anticipate the action or play, make sure I get players faces that capture some sort of emotion, reaction shots and if there’s some sort of cool artistic looking shot I typically try to make a few of those per game. That’s it! I might be missing something but there’s not a whole lot to it. With Lacrosse the rules are no different.

Since I never watched the sport or knew anything about it I did study how others Lacrosse shooters shot the game. A couple of shooters I studied were John Strohsacker and Kevin P. Tucker…these guys shots are next level. Now armed with database of image information I went out on a journey to shoot some Lacrosse games. I ended up shooting somewhere in the neighborhood of 28 Lacrosse games this year. For my final Lacrosse game of the year I shot the NCAA Division I Women’s Championship game which featured The Boston College Eagles vs. The Maryland Terrapins. The game was shot for The Washington Post and was a pretty awesome experience. Here are some of the images I captured this, starting at the end

Maryland Terrapins goalie and game MVP, Megan Taylor holds NCAA Division I Women’s Lacrosse Championship trophy after defeating the Boston College Eagles at Homewood Field.

Maryland Terrapins players celebrate winning the 2019 NCAA Division I Women’s Lacrosse Championship against the Boston College Eagles at Homewood Field.

Maryland Terrapins midfielder Jen Giles (5) celebrates goal with Brindi Griffin (1) against the Boston College Eagles during the 2019 NCAA Division I Women’s Lacrosse Championship at Homewood Field.

Northern’s Markie Nicholson shoots and scores goal over Westminster’s Andrew Burns during the Maryland boys' 3A lacrosse final at Paint Branch High School.

Northern’s John Sulier react to goal against Westminster during the Maryland boys' 3A lacrosse final at Paint Branch High School.

James M. Bennett’s Alex Sewell attempts shot against Westminster during the Boys Lacrosse 3A state semifinal at Mount Hebron High School

Maryland Terrapins midfielder Jen Giles (5) shoots and scores goal past Stony Brook Seawolves defenders at Capital One Field at Maryland Stadium

Maryland Terrapins midfielder Erica Evans (33) celebrates goal against the Stony Brook Seawolves at Capital One Field at Maryland Stadium

Stony Brook Seawolves attack Taryn Ohlmiller (21) handles the ball against Maryland Terrapins defender Meghan Doherty (6) at Capital One Field at Maryland Stadium

Northeast Eagles Attack Morgan James scores goal past Chesapeake Cougars Goalie Eryn Beal at Chesapeake High School

Howard Lions Midfielder Jeff Bruner scores goal against the South Carroll Cavs at Howard High School.

Howard Lions Midfielder Aiden Larsen brings the ball up field against the South Carroll Cavs at Howard High School.

Howard Lions Midfielder Colin Hunter celebrates goal with Midfielder Henry Frazier IV against the South Carrol Cavs at Howard High School.

Centennial Eagles Midfielder Alaina Kelly races towards the goal against River Hill Midfielder Maura Kilcoyne at River Hill High School.

River Hill Hawks Midfielder Lindsey Miller scores goal against the Centennial Eagles at River Hill High School.

Marriotts Ridge Mustangs Matt Hendershot takes hard check from Glenelg Gladiators CJ Davidson during the first quarter at Marriotts Ridge High School.

Glenelg Gladiators Ryan Hopkins brings the ball up field against Marriotts Ridge Mustangs Patrick Greene at Marriotts Ridge High School.

Marriotts Ridge Mustangs John Miller attempts shot at the end of the first half during a game against the Glenelg Gladiators at Marriotts Ridge High School.

Maryland Terrapins midfielder Logan Wisnauskas (12) takes crushing check from Penn State Nittany Lions defender Nick Cardile (43) during the first quarter at Capital One Field at Maryland Stadium.

Maryland Terrapins midfielder Will Snider (5) attempts shot during the first quarter against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Capital One Field at Maryland Stadium.

A10 in Brooklyn

I had the opportunity to shoot the A10 tournament in Brooklyn, NY at Barclays Center. Barclays Center is a really nice arena. The Nets ownership spared no expense on that arena. Typically for Nets basketball games the lights are setup as theater lights with the crowd blacked out. For the A10 tournament the house lights were on which was fine because it was super bright and I only had to go up to about ISO 1600. There was some fairly decent action on the court as well. Here’s some of what I captured

Saint Joseph's Hawks forward Charlie Brown Jr. (2) goes to the basket for a slam dunk during the second half against the Duquesne Dukes at Barclays Center

Massachusetts Minutemen guard Carl Pierre (12) and guard Tre Wood (0) reacts to loss against George Washington Colonials at Barclays Center.

Massachusetts Minutemen Head Coach Matt McCall during timeout against the George Washington Colonials at Barclays Center.

Davidson Wildcats guard Jon Axel Gudmundsson (3) goes to the basket against Saint Joseph's Hawks forward Lorenzo Edwards (21) for a lay up during the first half at Barclays Center

Saint Joseph's Hawks players react to basket during the second half against the Duquesne Dukes at Barclays Center

George Washington Colonials guard Terry Nolan Jr. (1) shoots over George Mason Patriots guard Jamal Hartwell II (10) during the second half at Barclays Center

Rhode Island Rams guard Fatts Russell (1) is fouled by La Salle Explorers guard Pookie Powell (0) during the first half at Barclays Center

Rhode Island Rams forward Cyril Langevine (10) and La Salle Explorers forward Ed Croswell (11) fight for rebound during the second half at Barclays Center

Saint Joseph's Hawks forward Charlie Brown Jr. (2) attempts to steal ball during the first half against the Davidson Wildcats at Barclays Center

Virginia Commonwealth Rams forward Michael Gilmore (22) goes to the basket for a slam dunk over Rhode Island Rams forward Jermaine Harris (0) during the first half at Barclays Center

Rhode Island Rams forward Cyri Langevine (10)grabs rebound away from Virginia Commonwealth Rams guard Marcus Evans (2) during the first half at Barclays Center

Rhode Island Rams guard Jeff Dowtin (11) has shot blocked by Virginia Commonwealth Rams guard Mike'l Simms (1) during the second half at Barclays Center

Rhode Island Rams forward Dana Tate (12) goes up for a slam dunk during the second half against the Virginia Commonwealth Rams at Barclays Center

Rhode Island Rams forward Dana Tate (12) reacts to slam dunk basket during the second half against the Virginia Commonwealth Rams at Barclays Center

Rhode Island Rams guard Jeff Dowtin (11) during a timeout against the Virginia Commonwealth Rams at Barclays Center

Rhode Island Rams guard Tyrese Martin (4) and forward Cyril Langevine (10) celebrate win over Virginia Commonwealth Rams at Barclays Center

High School Wrestling

Before a few months ago I had never shot wrestling. Never even thought about shooting it. I occasionally freelance with the Baltimore Sun and was given an assignment in January to cover a wrestling match in Arundel County. I have to admit, I love shooting the sport. You can get some cool shots from all different angles and there’s a lot of emotion and intensity that’s genuine. The challenging part in any High School venue is the lighting, but once you figure that out the rest is up to you what you make of the shots. Below are some shots from three different matches. Let me know what you think and please feel free to share this post.

Finals of the Anne Arundel County tournament at Arundel High School

Finals of the Anne Arundel County tournament at Arundel High School

Finals of the Anne Arundel County tournament at Arundel High School

Finals of the Anne Arundel County tournament at Arundel High School

Finals of the Anne Arundel County tournament at Arundel High School

Severn High at St. Mary’s School

Severn High at St. Mary’s School

Severn High at St. Mary’s School

Severn High at St. Mary’s School

Old Mill High at South River High

Old Mill High at South River High

Old Mill High at South River High

Old Mill High at South River High

Trains, Planes and Automobiles

This week was pretty busy week. I wound up shooting four games in three states. Monday I shot Virginia Tech at North Carolina in Chapel Hill at The Dean Smith Center. Great energy environment. A true college basketball campus atmosphere. The arena has a real aura and energy to it. I always wanted to shoot North Carolina and always wanted to shoot at the Dean Dome. North Carolina wound up beating Virginia Tech 82-103

On Friday I shot a girls High School basketball game in Fulton, Maryland. Oakland Mills High at Reservoir High for the Baltimore Sun. The game was for first place, in the end Oakland Mills came away with the victory

I travelled to New York to shoot Illinois vs Maryland on Saturday and on Sunday I shot Georgetown at St. John’s both games were at Madison Square Garden. There’s no place like the Garden. It felt like home and I enjoyed the experience. Here are some pics from the games.

My First Boxing Match

I love Boxing. To me it’s a life or death sport. These guys are in the ring fighting to eat and for their livelihood. I’ve gone to a ton of boxing matches as a fan but i’ve never shot a boxing match until now…I was able to get credentialed to shoot the Andrade vs. Akavov fight at The Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden. I wasn’t able to get ringside access which was a disappointment but I was still in the building to get a few shots. The only issue with shooting boxing from an elevated position is that you don’t get many different angles. Here are some of the pictures. I shot them all with my Nikon D5 and a 300MM F/2.8 lens.

St. John's vs. Georgetown

It’s relatively early in the College basketball season and I’m sure as the year moves along there will be more exciting games but…so far this is by far the most exciting game I’ve shot this season. St. John’s and Georgetown are charter members of the Big East. Their coaches are Chris Mullin (St. John’s) and Patrick Ewing (Georgetown), both are Big East, Dream Team and NBA legends. This game was high energy and full of emotion. In the end St. John’s came out with the overtime victory with the final score of 97-94

January 5, 2019 - Washington, D.C.: St. John's Red Storm guard Justin Simon (5) goes to the basket during the first half against the Georgetown Hoyas at Capital One Arena.

January 5, 2019 - Washington, D.C.: Georgetown Hoyas center Jessie Govan (15) goes in for the slam during the first half against the St. John's Red Storm at Capital One Arena.

January 5, 2019 - Washington, D.C.: St. John's Red Storm guard Greg Williams Jr. (4) goes in for the slam while guarded by Georgetown Hoyas center Jessie Govan (15) during the first half at Capital One Arena.

January 5, 2019 - Washington, D.C.: Georgetown Hoyas guard Jamorko Pickett (1) has shot blocked by St. John's Red Storm guard Justin Simon (5) during the first half at Capital One Arena.

January 5, 2019 - Washington, D.C.: St. John's Red Storm guard Shamorie Ponds (2) shoots three pointer over Georgetown Hoyas guard James Akinjo (3) during the second half at Capital One Arena.

January 5, 2019 - Washington, D.C.: St. John's Red Storm forward Marvin Clark II (13) has ball stripped away by Georgetown Hoyas guard Jagan Mosely (4) during the second half at Capital One Arena.

January 5, 2019 - Washington, D.C.: Georgetown Hoyas guard James Akinjo (3) drives to the basket while covered by St. John's Red Storm defenders during the second half at Capital One Arena.

January 5, 2019 - Washington, D.C.: St. John's Red Storm head coach Chris Mullin argues with referees during the second half against the Georgetown Hoyas at Capital One Arena.

January 5, 2019 - Washington, D.C.: St. John's Red Storm guard LJ Figueroa (30) celebrates basket with St. John's Red Storm forward Marvin Clark II (13) during the second half at Capital One Arena.

January 5, 2019 - Washington, D.C.: St. John's Red Storm guard Justin Simon (5) catches alleyoop during overtime against the Georgetown Hoyas at Capital One Arena.

January 5, 2019 - Washington, D.C.: St. John's Red Storm forward Marvin Clark II (13) celebrates three point basket in overtime period against the Georgetown Hoyas at Capital One Arena.

January 5, 2019 - Washington, D.C.: Georgetown Hoyas guard Greg Malinowski (11) drives to the basket during the second half at Capital One Arena.

January 5, 2019 - Washington, D.C.: Georgetown Hoyas forward Josh LeBlanc (23) is surrounded by St. John's Red Storm defenders during the second half at Capital One Arena.

January 5, 2019 - Washington, D.C.: Georgetown Hoyas forward Josh LeBlanc (23) celebrates basket and foul during the second half against the St. John's Red Storm at Capital One Arena.

January 5, 2019 - Washington, D.C.: Georgetown Hoyas center Jessie Govan (15) goes to the basket for the slam during the second half against the St. John's Red Storm at Capital One Arena.

January 5, 2019 - Washington, D.C.: St. John's Red Storm guard Shamorie Ponds (2) celebrates basket during overtime against the Georgetown Hoyas at Capital One Arena.

Thought Process and Workflow

It’s basketball season and who doesn’t love shooting basketball? For each sport the workflow on how you use equipment is different. In this post I’m going to share how I prefer to shoot the sport and some of the thoughts that go through my mind as well as how I prefer to use my equipment. This post isn’t the gospel on how to shoot this particular sport, just my preference.

First things, first…I shoot with three bodies and three lenses at all times. All three bodies are on me. I haven’t been fortunate enough to use remotes and keep one of my bodies behind the backboard or stanchion, therefore I’m switching bodies when certain situations call for it. I’m a Nikon guy and all three of my bodies are full frame. The lenses I use are a 24-70 f/2.8, 70-200 f/2.8, and a 300 f/2.8.

Here’s how I use each lens:

24-70mm f/2.8 I use it primarily for plays under the basket and fast break plays coming directly at me. Typically, I’m positioned under the basket. If I see a loose ball or a steal by the defense I’ll immediately pickup the camera body that has the 24-70 lens and start firing. If I see a teams strategy is to bang down low in the paint I’ll use my 24-70. If I want to cherry pick and get a nice shot of the players fighting for a rebound I’ll use my 24-70.

70-200mm f/2.8 is my go to lens in basketball generally, I’ll shoot with it 40-45% of the time. If I’m not under the basket I’ll be near the corner three point line on either side of the court. With this lens I can get every shot on the court…jumpers, layups, player reaction, dunks and some shots on the far end of the court as well.

300mm f/2.8 most of its use is for action on the far end of the court and close ups of players and coaches.

The shots below are from the Rutgers at Maryland game I shot yesterday. The captions state which lens was in use for each shot and why.

I hope this post helps others

Ciao!

Top two pics are shot with 24-70mm f/2.8. In the second shot action was coming to the basket. I like the 24-70 because it can give you nice wide view of the action even when you’re only a few feet away or you can get tighter shots as shown in the first picture.

The three images above are all while shooting with the 300mm f/2.8. Great for action on the far end of the court and getting nice close-ups of coaches and players on the near side of the court.

The four shots above are while using the 70-200mm f/2.8. It’s good for pretty much any shot on the court. For this game I used it for jump shots, player celebrations and some work under the basket.

Two Games, Two Arenas...One day

Today I had the pleasure of shooting two basketball games in one day. The first game was Howard University at Georgetown University at Capital One Arena at Noon. The second game was an NBA G-League game with the Long Island Nets vs. the Capital City Go-Go at the new Sports and Entertainment Center in DC. It was a long day, no need to ramble on here are a mix of shots from both games.

The Holiday Hoopsfest

I got the opportunity to shoot a quick college basketball tournament at the new Entertainment & Sports Center in Congress Heights in Washington, DC on the campus of the old St. Elizabeth’s Hospital. The arena is pretty nice and the lighting is great which is a huge plus. In game one the High Point University played Richmond University and in game two Hampton University took on rival Howard University. Both games were well played and hard fought. Here are some images I caught of the action.

The Real Show!

If you’ve ever been to a HBCU football game you know the real performance is on the field, but not by the football players…its the band and the dance team! Don’t get me wrong the game is always a good time and an opportunity to get some quality images, but from an entertainment standpoint the band and dance team is the real show. The music is typically pretty good and the performances are usually always amazing.

Before the game

In a mission to dig deeper with my photography this past summer I started taking pictures of what goes on before the game. I’d get to the ballpark in some instances two-three hours earlier to take pictures of batting practice. Teams were gracious enough to let me into their space and let me be a fly on the wall while they’re getting ready for the game. And there’s even some pictures of the unsung heroes of the game…The grounds crew. Here’s some of what I captured during the 2018 baseball season.

From the Dugout

I shoot Minor League Baseball for MiLB. com which is affiliated with MLB advanced media. I love shooting baseball but especially Minor League Baseball. There’s an authenticity and love for the game that can’t be duplicated. To see these young men come up through the ranks and try to fulfill their dreams of making a Major League roster is incredible. You find yourself rooting for them…all of them to make to the “Show”. Some of the best shots i’ve captured I think, have been away from the field…in the dugout. You get a range of emotions from the day to day grind that they endure to make it to the big leagues. Here’s some of what I captured in the 2018 season.