It’s a Tiger Woods fist pump after sinking the final putt in
a Masters victory. It’s David Tyree pinning the ball to his helmet as he is
getting hit to propel the New York Giants to a Super Bowl victory. It’s a
tender confetti filled moment between Drew Brees and his son. It’s Kirk Gibson
hobbling around the bases.
Photography plays a huge role in sport. It captures athletes
at their highest highs and lowest lows. It has the power to influence the
legacy of any moment, significant or insignificant as it may be.
I believe that photography in sport has two significant
roles. The most obvious role is that of preserving great moments. There is no
denying the passion and raw emotion encapsulated in a Tiger Woods fist pump.
Yet, it also makes moments that may not seem so great at the time, legendary.
Many realized that the Tyree catch was spectacular, yet few realized that it
would become immortal. Photography allowed that.
The other important aspect is the aesthetic side. People
enjoy seeing athletes in a different light. We see them making big plays, or
taking big hits, but what is their life like off of the field? The picture of
Drew Brees holding up his son at the Super Bowl exemplifies this. The picture
juxtaposes two things that Brees is most proud of; the pride from leading a
team to his sports greatest feat, and his son who would be the pride and joy of
any mans life.
Of course, there are more provocative photos as well. Photos
of protest, politics and fighting amongst athletes have become immortalized as
well. Generally, though, I feel that the positive pictures stand out more in
our minds.
