Article and photography by Tanner Pearson
As my internship with NCAA Photos comes to an end, I’ve reflected on the trips, assignments, and work I’ve done over the past few months. Across 29 flights, over 21,000 miles, twelve airports, and six months of travel, I think back to my first assignment in early January.
Nervously, I packed my Think Tank Airport International V3.0. I checked, then double checked, to make sure I had everything I needed. Three camera bodies, a 100-300, 24-105, a 16-35, chargers, cords, card readers, and batteries. I think I got it all. Once at Ball Arena, I made my way in to cover the Denver Nuggets vs. the Atlanta Hawks. Through security, I secured my credential and displayed it in my Think Tank Credential Holder, an item soon to be filled with more. I found my way to the media room to begin setting up my gear for the game. It was a familiar feeling, filled with excitement and anticipation. The Hawks took the win, and I had completed my first assignment. Relieved, I was eager for the assignments ahead, ready to work hard and learn everything I could.
Growing up, I always associated spring with basketball. I looked forward to March Madness, filling out a bracket, thinking, "This is my year. I know exactly who will win it all!" always picking Duke. This year was no different. Early March was spent in Las Vegas, covering the Mountain West tournament for 10 days, followed by a trip to San Diego for the men’s first- and second-round regionals. Then, a solo trip to Sacramento covering the third and fourth rounds of the women’s tournament. Following that, I made the cross-country venture from Sacramento to Indianapolis for the men’s Final Four.
What should have been an easy flight to Chicago, then to Indianapolis, turned into a delay and reroute to Houston, where I managed to make my connecting flight with ten minutes to spare. Though travel days can be unpredictable and stressful, I learned to let go of control and enjoy the process.
It was an impactful and developmental month for me. I met and worked with some amazing folks, improved my skills in setting up remote cameras, live editing, cross-country travel, and learned how to precisely pack for a trip. I could see the growth in my work and how I was able to become comfortable and confident in different environments.
The excitement and long days of March prepared me well for the months to follow. For the winter championships, we utilize remotes in the venues to add another perspective that we normally couldn’t capture. To keep the equipment safe and organized, we use the Logistics Manager 30 V2.0. From magic arms to clamps, triggers, cables, cameras, and lights, and everything in between, I know that I can fit everything I need securely into ThinkTank products.
We utilized these rollers heavily during the Frozen Four tournament in Las Vegas. Three remotes overhead on the catwalk, two remotes on each end of the rink on poles pointing at the goals, and one in the net. This allowed us complete coverage for every goal and celebration.
We rely on our gear to do our job so we can be reliable for our clients. I never have to worry about the reliability of my ThinkTank gear because I know from one assignment to the next, it will hold everything I need and allow me to stay organized.
As I finish my internship, I’ve reflected on the skills I have developed as a sports photographer. This internship has allowed me to understand the logistics of travel, the importance of preparation and planning, reliability, and organization to do the best job I can. Lessons all sports photographers learn. I am extremely grateful for this opportunity to develop these skills and to learn and work alongside some of the best in the world.
About the Author
Tanner Pearson
Tanner Pearson is a Denver-based photographer specializing in sports, documentary photography, and visual storytelling. A graduate of Ohio University, his work has appeared in The Boston Globe, and most recently, he spent six months traveling the country as an intern with NCAA Photos, documenting collegiate sports and championship events.
Great write up.
It was fantastic meeting you in indy on the sideline. Keep up the good work.
Wow, sounds like a little past an adventure!
Glad you are safe and added to your plan!
Please pass on a hello to Kris!