From a young age, I have really enjoyed playing baseball. Not only is it my favorite sport, but it is also the avenue through which I have connected with my favorite people. I began playing at the age of six and still play casually today.
Through elementary and high school, I enjoyed a pastime with close friends, friendly competition and the fresh Santa Monica, California air. Without these experiences, I would not be the person I am today, and for that I am grateful.
I’ve also had the pleasure of watching my younger brother play baseball just as I did. He is currently in his freshman year of high school, but he has been playing since he was a toddler. I am proud not only of his progress, but also of his potential to become a successful ball player. Currently, I am in a position where I would almost rather watch him play than go out and play myself. He’s reached the skill level at which baseball becomes quite fun to watch. Substantial feats of athleticism and exciting plays are no longer so few and far between.
While watching him play, I decided to take up photography. I saw a great opportunity to document my brother’s developmental experiences while also acquiring a new hobby for myself. A few years ago, I picked up my first camera and began to shoot his games. From plays on the field to appearances at home plate, I have had many opportunities to practice the skill. Through my passion for the sport of baseball, I have acquired a new passion for photography. I really enjoy traveling with my family to my brother’s baseball tournaments across the southwestern U.S. and getting to be the one to document the experiences. It’s been truly rewarding for me not only to take pictures, but also to produce something that he and the rest of my family enjoy.
When I left home for college, I searched for a way to maintain my passion. Fortunately, through one of my professors and friends of friends I was able to find my way to The Observer, which was in need of photographers. I happily joined the team and photographed my first event: softball. The first long walk with 15 pounds of camera from South Dining Hall to the field was just the beginning of a dedicated sports photography routine I came to develop. During my first semester on the job, I gradually shifted towards photographing soccer. I covered most of the soccer games and even had the opportunity to travel to Pennsylvania to photograph the men's soccer national championship game.
Overall, becoming an amateur sports photographer has been a great experience for me. Continuing my passion, nurturing my love of sports and traveling have been the perks of the job for me, and I look forward to continuing to work on my craft.
