Cincinnati Reds Vs Philadelphia Phillies April 22, 2024

June 13, 2025

Photographing A Phillies Reds MLB Game With A Small Crowd

On April 22, 2024, I had the opportunity to photograph the Cincinnati Reds versus the Philadelphia Phillies for Cincinnati CityBeat. While I love photographing a variety of subjects, I never imagined I’d get the chance to shoot a Reds game. This was either my third or fourth Reds game as a professional photographer, and the access I had was truly incredible. Although the Reds aren’t a top team and the stands often remain empty, it’s still a thrilling experience to be in the dugout with some of the best baseball players in the world.

For this game, I had planned to focus on photographing Bryce Harper of the Phillies. However, just a few hours before the game, I learned he was on a three-day paternity leave after recently becoming a father. Even though I knew he wouldn’t be playing, I still enjoyed capturing shots of both the Reds and the Phillies throughout the game.

Photographing baseball is always a challenge because the game moves so slowly and then, in an instant, the action speeds up. The moments of intense action are often over in mere seconds, and you never quite know where they’re going to happen. One of my favorite shots from this game was of Elly De La Cruz sliding into third base with his helmet flying off and his necklace rising in the air. I love that shot—it tells a story, conveys emotion, and captures a powerful moment of action.

I also enjoy photographing dugout scenes, players walking off the field, and moments when they’re sliding into any of the bases. These images always tell a different side of the game.

Photographing With New MLB Game Rules

Looking back at my childhood, going to games as a fan is nothing compared to photographing them now. The access I get as a professional photographer is unmatched. The new MLB rules that speed up the game also make everything feel more dynamic and fun. It’s a whole different experience.

See more of my my commercial photography / corporate photography work here.