10/30/2026
🏈📸 WOW, have the sidelines changed!
I was actually photographing the Liberty vs. Basha game featured in this FOX 10 Phoenix story!
I have been photographing high school sports since 2015, and the number of cameras and content creators on the sidelines has grown tremendously!
For Liberty Football, there are two of us serving as designated team media, myself as the photographer and our team videographer. We are there to cover the TEAM!
Let me be VERY clear. I have ZERO issue with student photographers! I LOVE working alongside Yearbook and PSBN students. I have been invited to speak to classes and mentor young photographers, and I genuinely enjoy watching them develop their skills!
My frustration is with those who prioritize social media attention over sideline safety and respect.
A few games ago, I turned around and literally got a flash right in my eyes from one of these so-called “pajama paparazzi” photographers standing IN the player box, where he had no business being! 😳
Restricted areas exist for a reason. Walking in front of other photographers, using flash when it is not permitted, and ignoring boundaries is NOT okay!
There is plenty of room for creativity and new talent, but getting the shot should NEVER come before safety, respect, and professionalism.
The game comes FIRST! 🏈
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Media leaders and athletic officials establish new etiquette standards and policies as independent content creators seek sideline credentials at high school games.
