It’s nice finally being a popular gal in high school . . . even if it is 42 years late. And even if it is a different school.
Of course, I realize that my likability status rises only when I’m toting Nikon equipment. But, hey, I’ll take what I can get!
When I sat down on the hard, wooden bleachers in my sons’ former high school gym last Friday night to shoot volleyball, I saw smiles on friends’ faces and cameras being put down. Then I started snapping away and chimping to check my results.
See the above photo? Those grins would’ve disappeared quickly if anyone else would’ve looked at my Nikon D700’s LCD. Yep, I did capture the ball, but where’s the action? What kind of pathetic excuse for a sports photographer am I?
At first I inwardly groaned and considered a quick exit. But then I remembered why I was at the gym that I had successfully avoided for two years (opting to only shoot the varsity at the better-lit Wheeler Fieldhouse): I wanted to capture good memories for Carly, who is a freshman.
As well as a couple other girls who I’ve watched grow up over the years.
Hard to believe that they’re in high school! Plus they’re so talented!!
The solution to my poor-shooting woes was obvious: I also needed to get my game face on and do a better job.
After the thrilling win, I put my camera down and just watched the junior varsity match, because I didn’t know any of the girls on the team.
But then it was time for the varsity to take center stage. I’ve been shooting our high school volleyball for about six years, and we’ve always had good teams.
We also have a great fan base that fills the gym and inspires the girls to aspire higher.
Which is a good message for action photographers with fragile psyches, too!