Play of the game
When covering a sporting event your goal is to capture the defining moment in a game that in one photo can tell the whole story. In this photo of Eryck Anders hit on Texas quarterback Garrett Gilbert in the final moments of the game is the defining moment. Texas had a chance to drive the field and go for the win. Alabama’s defense had another plan and that was to disrupt that opportunity at all cost. On the second play of that drive Anders hit Gilbert causing a fumble and Alabama recovered. A few plays later Mark Ingram scored the touchdown to seal the win for Alabama. One play, one moment, and history is defined.
Dancing in the Rain
As a photographer you sometimes have to take what mother nature gives you and this year she has given a little more than usual. Weather always adds to a photo. Whether it is clouds, a storm, or as in this picture human interaction with the weather. This cheerleader was enjoying life to the fullest in a downpour. So the next time weather dampens your photo experience, look around it might just lead to something that makes you appreciate the simple things in life. A dance in the Rain.
Dive
Before the snap I was begging for a play to my side since the last 10 went away from me. I saw the quarterback pulling towards me and started panning with him. Shooting a frame or two it was not very interesting then he decided that from the 5 yard line he could dive for the end zone giving up a great shot. Excitement quickly changed as I realized now he would end up in my lap and of course mom calls the next day and says “Saw you on tv when that player ran over you.” Thanks mom. Hope you enjoy
BDP Tips and Tricks
Sometimes the best photos in sports do not actually happen on the field. Always be aware of what is happening all around you. In Sideline Emotion, I turned in time to see the top defensive player seated on the bench, obviously frustrated with his team’s performance. The emotions that we can sense from him seem to be calling for the chance to get back out there on the field one more time. On the next series, the defense intercepted a pass and our sideline player did get that chance to play again, helping to bring the team to a victory. So, the next time you’re at a sporting event, look around on the benches. There are plenty of photographs just waiting to be captured.
Butch Dill Photography 