Trying My Hand at Sports Photography: Seattle Sounders vs. DC United
If you grew up around Seattle, you know soccer is not just a sport — it is practically a religion. So when the Sounders came through Charleston, South Carolina to play a preseason match against DC United, I could not resist grabbing my camera and getting as close to the action as I could.
Front row for a hometown team, far from home
Soccer is a much bigger deal in Seattle than it is here in the South, which meant I ended up somewhere I never expected: front row, right behind the players’ bench. The Sounders played three matches total during their time in Charleston, alongside Houston and DC United, and I got to meet the players after the game — including snagging a photo with Brad Evans.
Stepping outside my comfort zone with sports photography
At the final game, I decided to put my camera to a different kind of test and try my hand at sports photography for the first time. It is a completely different rhythm than the portrait and wedding work I usually do — fast, unpredictable, and reactive instead of directed. I loved every second of it, and it pushed me to work faster and trust my instincts behind the lens.
Even years later, this is one of my favorite reminders that growth as a photographer often comes from chasing the shots that scare you a little. Comment and let me know what you think of this set!
Frequently asked questions
Does Lindsey O photograph sports events?
Sports photography is not my primary focus, but this Seattle Sounders match was a fun personal challenge that pushed my skills as a photographer in a new direction.
Where was this Seattle Sounders vs. DC United match played?
The match was actually played in Charleston, South Carolina, where the Sounders faced DC United and Houston during a preseason stop.
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