Telling the Whole Story: How My Approach to Sports Photography Has Evolved

By Eric Graham/Southern Capture Media

Over the past couple of years, I’ve completely changed the way I photograph sporting events—from the camera settings I use, to how I edit, to how I plan out what shots I need and when. These changes have helped me grow as a professional photographer and have led to more work from clients. 

But what I think really sets me apart is my focus on capturing everything beyond just the game. Of course, getting the critical action shots is essential. But I’ve learned it’s just as important to be proactive and think about the full story of the event. When a team scores or misses a big opportunity, I ask myself: how can I capture the emotion of that moment? 

To truly tell the story, you have to go beyond the field. The reactions of fans, coaches, cheerleaders, and even the marching band all add to the narrative. I like to approach every game as if it’s not being broadcast or covered anywhere else—my photos should tell the complete story on their own. 

In recent years, I’ve made a point to photograph more of the people who make game day special: the band, cheer and dance teams, majorettes, athletic staff, and even fellow photographers. There are so many individuals who prepare tirelessly behind the scenes, and their efforts often go unnoticed. Taking one photo of them doing what they love can completely make their day—and it costs nothing to do it. 

I’ve also noticed that these groups tend to be the most appreciative of my work. They often share or tag my photos, which has led to more exposure and even new clients. Family members sometimes reach out to purchase digital images, too. 

On the flip side, athletes from the bigger sports sometimes don’t tag or credit photos, and occasionally, people screenshot images without permission. But honestly, I don’t let that bother me. Most of my work is pre-paid, and while some people suggest using large watermarks to prevent theft, I prefer not to. Big watermarks can distract from the art itself. 

For me, posting work without watermarks is about showcasing my portfolio and attracting future clients. It’s a trade-off, but one that helps my work stand out for the right reasons. 

At the end of the day, there’s no single “right” way to approach sports photography. Early in my career, I tried to do everything the way others did—but I’ve learned you have to find what works best for you. 

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