Photographing The Cincinnati Reds As A Commercial Sports Photographer

Cincinnati Reds Vs San Diego Padres June 2025

Photographing An MLB Game

In June 2025, I photographed the Cincinnati Reds versus the San Diego Padres, night one of a three game set, a great American ballpark, in Cincinnati, Ohio. This was a great game, and was very eventful for me as a longtime Reds fan, period.

Crowd Size

While I don’t watch sports at all, I grew up as a Cincinnati Reds fan, and always loved to see when the crowds were big, and the stands were full. Most of the other games I photographed for the Reds were, um, on, like, Tuesday or Wednesday nights where there weren’t very many people in the crowd, period. This night was probably three quarters full. It was a Friday night, and the crowd was crazy and going wild. The atmosphere was great and quite different from a weekday game, period. New sentence. New paragraph. So, the highlighted the game for me was Spencer Steer hitting three home runs.

Right Place Right Time

A couple of those home runs happened while I stood in the first base photo well near home plate. When a player scores, they run down the third baseline, putting me in position to shoot straight down the line. From there, I capture players rounding third, sprinting home, and sliding to score. Their excitement shows as they push for the plate, and sometimes I catch close tag plays—though not that night. Overall, it was a great game, and I’m always thankful to shoot a Reds game.

When I Was A Kid

As a kid, I never imagined I’d photograph Reds games, stand in the dugout, or be just feet from some of the biggest stars in sports. It took years to become a sports photographer, but I never wanted to do it full time. I shoot 3-4 Reds games a year to stay connected, maintain standing with the team, and deliver photos to Cincinnati CityBeat. Sports photography isn’t my favorite, but it’s always exciting. Walking through the tunnel into the dugout—even the visitor’s side—still feels amazing.

On this night, I got to see Manning Machado, who was very, very close to me several times, and that is cool. Even though I don’t follow the sports, I know who he is, and I can respect the players that are in the dugout, and the players playing the game, period. One of the cool things about being in the dugout is you get to hear things that no one else is hearing. I get to hear the manager tell the players, Good job and way to go. And then I hear the coaches.

Cincinnati Reds Vs Philadelphia Phillies April 22, 2024

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. His helmet was flying off, and his necklace was 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.

Cincinnati Reds Vs Cleveland Guardians June 12, 2024

Photographing A Reds Guardians Game With A Large Crowd

In June 2024 I photographed a Major League Baseball game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Cleveland Guardians. This was an assignment for Cincinnati CityBeat. I have been photographing a few Reds games for the last couple of years, but this one was much more fun. Why? The large crowd.

Photographing the Reds is always fun but challenging. Attendance is generally really low during the week. For most of my life, the Reds have been a losing team. Not many fans show up. So when I am photographing the players on the field, there are thousands of seats empty in the background.

For the Reds-Guardians game, the stadium was maybe half full, considerably more full than any other game I have shot. This was exciting for me, as the photos would look different. Additionally, part of my assignment is to photograph fans in the crowd. When not many people are at the game, it is harder to find interesting fans to photograph. This was incredibly easier when photographing this Reds-Guardians game.

Photographing Sports When You Are Not A Sports Fan

I do not like sports, but I love photographing the Cincinnati Reds. All my life, my mom and sister have been obsessed with baseball and softball. Ohio sports teams have always been a disappointment to me including my high school and college teams. I decided years ago to just rid myself of the agony and disappointment that sports brings.

I grew up going to Reds games, always thinking they were boring. I always appreciated going to games because not everyone got to go. It was always fun, but I never cared about the games. When I am in the dugout photographing the teams now, I take time to appreciate that I have the ability to be there. Hundreds of thousands of fans would give anything to be shoulder-to-shoulder with some of the best professional baseball players in the world.

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

Cincinnati Reds Vs Minnesota Twins 2023

For the third time in 2023, I photographed a Major League Baseball game, this time it was Reds Twins 2023. If you would have ever told me I’d be a professional sports photographer, I would have laughed. MLB only allows select publications to photograph games, and I am blessed to be a freelance photographer for CityBeat. Shooting a Cincinnati Reds vs Minnesota Twins game was truly awesome.

In addition to photographing the action happening on the field, I try to focus on more artistic images such as portraits. It is a bit daunting when you realize how many pitches and swings you have to cover in 9 innings. I used to follow sports quite closely, so knowing the rules and propensity for plays makes this much easier.

The Minnesota Twins are a professional baseball team based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Established in 1901, the Twins have a rich history and a strong fan base. They are a member of the Central Division in the American League and play their home games at Target Field. Over the years, the Twins have seen both success and challenges, with multiple division titles and World Series championships. The team has been known for its talented players and competitive spirit. From Harmon Killebrew to Kirby Puckett to Joe Mauer, the Twins have seen many legendary players don the Twins uniform. With each season, fans eagerly anticipate the start of Twins baseball, ready to cheer on their team to victory. As the Twin Cities’ beloved baseball team, the Minnesota Twins continue to bring excitement, joy, and pride to their loyal supporters.

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

Cincinnati Reds Vs San Francisco Giants 2023

In July 2023, I photographed my third Major League Baseball game at Great American Ball Park. It was the Cincinnati Reds and the San Francisco Giants. This was the third MLB game this year I have photographed, and it did not disappoint. Reds Giants 2023 was awesome!

Shooting Reds Giants 2023 For CityBeat

I shoot MLB games and concerts for Cincinnati CityBeat, the same publication.  The staff at CityBeat has been awesome to work with since 2015. I am always grateful when I get to shoot for them. Each time I am credentialed by CityBeat or CincyMusic.com, I recognize how lucky I am to get a media pass.  They are highly coveted by photographers, so I don’t take them for granted. See more in my commercial photography portfolio.

San Francisco Giants

For over a century, the San Francisco Giants have stood as an icon of baseball greatness. Rooted in rich history and fan base, this team has become synonymous with power, determination, and a commitment to victory.

Established in 1883, the Giants have embraced the spirit of their home city, capturing the essence of San Francisco in every game. Their iconic orange and black uniforms proudly grace the field, symbolizing a team that embodies resilience, teamwork, and an unyielding desire to triumph.

More About The San Francisco Giants

The Giants’ journey to glory has not been without its challenges. Through the years, they have faced adversity head-on, rising above the competition. This resilience has led to countless pennants and World Series victories, including three championships in just five years from 2010 to 2014, affirming their status as a true dynasty.

Beyond their on-field achievements, the Giants have ingrained themselves in the fabric of San Francisco. Their commitment to community outreach and philanthropy mirrors the city’s progressive values, consistently using their platform for the betterment of society. From supporting local schools to providing aid during times of crisis, the Giants are an integral part of the community, bringing joy to fans both on and off the field.

The San Francisco Giants embody the essence of baseball, captivating fans with their thrilling game-day experiences. Whether you’re a lifelong supporter or a newcomer to the game, join the countless others who have found themselves enthralled by this storied franchise. Get ready to witness a legacy of excellence unfold before your eyes – for the San Francisco Giants are more than a baseball team; they are an embodiment of the human spirit and a symbol of perseverance and triumph.

Other Sports-Related Commercial Photography Blog Posts

I Photographed Dayton Dragons Professional Baseball Game

Paul Brown Stadium Now Paycor Stadium Exterior Photos 2022 Cincinnati

Historic Churchill Downs Racetrack Louisville Kentucky Photos

Cincinnati Reds Vs Los Angeles Dodgers 2023

June 6, 2023, I saw the Major League Debut of Elly De La Cruz, a shortstop for the Cincinnati Reds.  In a back-and-forth baseball game between Cincinnati and the Los Angeles Dodgers, De La Cruz elicited rousing applause and standing ovations.  The 6-foot 4-inch prospect provided an electric charge to the fans at Great American Ball Park. Today, I was photographing Reds Dodgers 2023.

Reds Dodgers 2023

This was the second MLB game I have photographed and was more challenging than the first (only two weeks ago).  For this game, Los Angeles had several photographers and videographers which the St. Louis Cardinals did not have a few weeks ago.  Additionally, due to De La Cruz being called up from the Louisville Bats, there were more local media in attendance.  While I did not have to fight for a spot in the photo wells, I often had to stand behind people to get the shots I needed.

I shoot MLB games for Cincinnati CityBeat, the same publication I shoot concerts for.  The staff at CityBeat has been awesome to work with since 2015, and I am always grateful when I get to shoot for them.
Every time I am credentialed by CityBeat or CincyMusic.com, I take a moment to recognize how lucky I am to get a media pass.  They are highly coveted by photographers, so I don’t take it for granted.

See my Cincinnati Reds photos published by Cincinnati CityBeat.

Great American Ball Park

Great American Ball Park, located in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a true gem for baseball fans. As the home stadium of the Cincinnati Reds, it offers an unforgettable experience for both locals and visitors. The park’s stunning architecture combines modern elements with nods to baseball’s rich history. Its prime location along the banks of the Ohio River provides a picturesque backdrop and adds to the overall charm. With a seating capacity of over 42,000, fans can enjoy a lively atmosphere and a great view of the game. From the maintained field to the hot dogs and peanuts, Great American Ball Park captures the essence of America’s pastime. This ballpark is sure to leave a lasting impression on any baseball enthusiast.

Check out more of my commercial photography here.

Other Sports-Related Commercial Photography Blog Posts

I Photographed Dayton Dragons Professional Baseball Game

Paul Brown Stadium Now Paycor Stadium Exterior Photos 2022 Cincinnati

Historic Churchill Downs Racetrack Louisville Kentucky Photos

Cincinnati Reds Vs St. Louis Cardinals 2023

In May 2023 I was granted a Cincinnati Red’s media pass through CityBeat, a publication I shoot concert for. I don’t follow sports and don’t enjoy watching sports. As I grew up on Red’s baseball, I thought it would be fun to photograph an MLB game. When my pass came through for the Reds vs St. Louis Cardinals on May 23, 2023, I was thrilled. Check out my CityBeat photos here or see my favorites from Reds Cardinals 2023 below.

Photography Minor League Baseball To Learn

Many years ago photographed my first Dayton Dragons professional baseball team in Dayton, Ohio. I have since shot them 4 times. I was told I would never be allowed to photograph a Major League Baseball game and to not bother trying to get a pass. For years, I hadn’t tried. Wow. I sure am glad that I did this year!

Reds Cardinals 2023

I spent two hours learning the Great American Ball Park etiquette from the other photographers in the Photo Dark Room, deep within GABP. When it was time to shoot the game, we started in the first base photo well, and area just to the left of the visiting dugout. It is one of 5 spots from which I was permitted to shoot. During the first seven innings of the game, I shot from here as well as both home plate photo wells and the first base photo well. Each spot had its strengths, but I liked the first base (home dugout) photo well the best. I was literally 3 feet away from the Reds when they entered and exited the dugout. What an experience.

When I first arrived, I went to the press box to check it out. To my surprise, it is on the third baseline with a perfect view of everything in the stadium. I took only one photo from here to commemorate the moment.

Check out more commercial photography here.

• Cincinnati Reds Vs San Francisco Giants 2023
• Cincinnati Reds Vs Cleveland Guardians June 12, 2o24
• Cincinnati Reds Vs Los Angeles Dodgers 2023
• Cincinnati Reds Vs Minnesota Twins 2023
• Floral V Designs Is A Great Florist In Dayton For Wedding Days

Check out more of my Dayton and Cincinnati commercial photography and corporate photography clients.