Shaping an Entrance

"Long snapper Nick Sundberg #57 of the Washington Redskins takes the field before playing against the Denver Broncos in a preseason game at FedExField on August 24, 2018 in Landover, Maryland."

Making an entrance in football usually means lots of pageantry.

From fireworks, smoke and loud music - it's all visual and a great way to start a game for players, fans and photographers alike.

However, I am always trying to look for interesting moments before that. How does one's body language communicate nervousness or even excitement?

Many years ago I photographed referees very similar to the above image. Yet last year I found a most graphic element to this rectangle and decided to explore it the other night.

Shape and color are great - but getting a little moment like looking to the field, fans - is always the cherry on top of the ice cream.

Cool Down

"Sergio Ramos #4 of Real Madrid runs through a sprinkler prior to the International Champions Cup at FedExField on August 4, 2018 in Landover, Maryland."

Documenting sports often means arriving early and leaving late.

Sometimes warmups can feel like a drag - and the joke is echoed - no one ever won, nor lost, a game before the whistle.

However, motivation mixed with a moment can lead to a picture when one is compelled to shoot some images prior to kick-off.

During the International Champions Cup, superstar Sergio Ramos of Real Madrid put himself through some workouts - and also through some water sprinklers - which resulted in interesting picture before the actual game.