A Decade In The Lens
Capturing the NHL 2023 Hockey Season from the Ice
This is my 10th year photographing the NHL, I can't help but reflect on the incredible journey I've had behind the lens, especially during the 2023/24 hockey season. Based in Edmonton, I find myself capturing the energy and intensity of the games, primarily for teams like the Oilers, though I'm not officially their photographer.
One of the highlights of my photography career has been the privilege of capturing moments from Connor McDavid. Shooting the most evolved player in hockey on a regular basis is a special experience.
Over the years, I've amassed a wealth of knowledge that goes beyond just knowing which cameras to use. While equipment is crucial, understanding how to navigate the intricacies of shooting in the NHL is what sets this sport apart. The speed, physicality, and dynamic nature of hockey demand a photographer's keen eye and quick reflexes.
Understanding small details like when Connor picks up speed to the left of the goalie in the corner and cut through the middle and loves the drop cross ice pass allows me to shoot the back door tap in.
Filing properly is an art in itself. Which for a commercial shooter was a learning curve.
Ensuring that each shot is cataloged and organized meticulously is essential when dealing with the sheer volume of images that come with capturing the fast-paced action of an NHL game. It's a skill I've honed over the years, streamlining my workflow to handle the demands of this high-energy sport.
In talking with my editors I have come to realize that because of my hockey background, having a deep understanding of the game allows me to anticipate the action, capturing details that might go unnoticed by others until its on the frame. It's not about being better or worse; it's about offering a unique perspective. My shots tell a story that goes beyond goals and saves.
Being a part of the NHL photography community is a privilege that I don't take lightly. The rush of the cold air, (you feel it in the hole in the glass) the sound of skates cutting through the ice, and the roar of the crowd—all of these elements come together to create an atmosphere that is both challenging and rewarding to capture.
I'm grateful for the opportunities this profession has given me. Each click of the shutter is a celebration of the sport; A frozen moment in time that encapsulates the spirit of the game. Capturing the intensity, and experiencing the privilege of being an NHL photographer.
Connor McDavid
