Everything An NFL Photographer Does On Game Day | LA Chargers

Summary

Mike Nowak, a seasoned photographer for the Chargers, takes viewers through his game-day routine, showcasing his equipment and strategies for capturing unique shots. He explains the meticulous preparation needed, from setting up remote cameras to testing wireless connections, to ensure seamless photo transmission. Despite challenges like faulty gear and unpredictable moments on the field, Mike's focus is on creativity and problem-solving. He shares insights on using different lenses, capturing key moments, and his commitment to documenting the team’s journey. The video offers a behind-the-scenes look at the dedication and passion behind sports photography.

Takeaways

• 📸 Mike Noak has been the Chargers' team photographer for 25 years, covering 524 games.
• 🌅 The team arrives early at 7 am to set up, ensuring everything is in place before the game at 1 pm.
• 🔧 Photography is described as problem-solving, where issues like malfunctioning clamps or dead batteries need to be quickly addressed.
• 📷 Noak uses different lenses for various shots, including a 400mm and 600mm for distant shots and a 135mm lens as his favorite for general use.
• 🏃‍♂️ He strategically positions remote cameras in places like under the arches to capture unique angles of the players running out onto the field.
• ⚡ The Chargers have implemented a smoke wall for dramatic entrances, and Noak captures the 3D-like effect as players come through the smoke.
• 📡 Noak’s camera is connected wirelessly to a system that allows instant transmission of photos to social media in real-time during the game.
• 👕 He takes uniform shots of key players before each game, showing fans what the players are wearing, with custom lighting for an extra effect.
• 🎮 Game day photography involves capturing moments during pregame stretches, team huddles, and dramatic plays on the field, often focusing on reactions and celebrations.
• 🖼 Noak emphasizes the importance of capturing behind-the-scenes moments and unique perspectives that fans don’t normally see, creating a deeper connection to the team.

Q & A

Who is the speaker in the video and what is his role?

The speaker is Mike Noak, the Chargers team photographer, and it is his 25th year in this role.

How early does the team arrive on game day, and why?

The team arrives at 7 AM, even though the game starts at 1 PM, to set up equipment and troubleshoot any issues before the game.

What types of lenses does Mike Noak use for different shots?

Mike Noak uses different lenses for various shots, including a 400mm and 600mm lens for long-range field shots, a 70-200mm lens for versatile mid-range shots, and his favorite, the 135mm lens, for close-up action.

What kind of problems does Mike encounter on the job, and how does he address them?

Mike encounters problems like broken clamps, non-working transmitters, and dead batteries. He addresses them through early setup and troubleshooting before the game begins.

How does Mike capture unique shots of the players entering the field?

Mike mounts remote cameras in strategic positions, such as under the stadium arch, to capture players running out onto the field and using the new 'smoke wall' for dramatic shots.

What kind of technology does Mike use to transmit photos during the game?

Mike uses wireless transmitters connected to his camera to send photos directly to the editing team. Once he captures a shot, he presses a button to transmit the image instantly to his team.

What type of shots does Mike take for social media before the game?

For social media, Mike takes 'uniform shots' of players to show fans what they will be wearing. He uses lighting to enhance the photos in the locker room before transmitting them for social media posts.

How does Mike prepare for capturing game moments?

Mike ensures his camera settings are correct, checks his lenses, and tests remote setups. He coordinates with other photographers to ensure all angles of the field are covered.

What does Mike focus on during the game besides capturing key plays?

Besides capturing key plays, Mike focuses on reactions, celebrations, and emotional moments that tell the broader story of the game.

How does Mike feel about his role as a photographer?

Mike enjoys his role as a photographer, particularly capturing moments that fans and the general public wouldn’t otherwise see, like the team's emotional celebrations and unique behind-the-scenes moments.