A photograph can be powerful. It possesses the ability to capture the raw emotion of a singular moment and preserve an otherwise fleeting snippet of time, telling a story in the process.
In the days leading up to training camp, we're taking a look back at 10 of the best photos from the 2022-23 season along with commentary from Chiefs' Director of Photography Steve Sanders. Unlike in previous years, this isn't a countdown of Sanders' top images, but rather the story of the Chiefs' championship season told through some of his favorite photos.
We'll continue with No. 6:
"Scoop to the House"
Game: Super Bowl LVII
The Subject: Linebacker Nick Bolton scoops up a fumble (which he returned for a touchdown) during Super Bowl LVII.
Taken By: Gavin Liddell
Camera Model: Canon EOS-1D X Mark III
Focal Length: 400 mm
Exposure Time: 1/2,000
Aperture: f/3.2
Steve Sanders' Thoughts:
Q: Tell us about this moment and who captured it.
Sanders: "Gavin was my seasonal [photographer] last year, and he did a great job throughout the season of growing his skills," Sanders said. "This picture captured a turning point of confidence in the game. The Eagles were moving the ball like they wanted to in the first half, and all of a sudden, [Eagles' quarterback] Jalen Hurts lost control of the ball. It was rolling, and Bolton came through with a perfect scoop before running to the end zone. This play clearly fired up the guys to keep competing."
Q: The beauty of this photo is that is really captures Nick's focus on the ball amidst everything else going on around him. Can you speak to that?
Sanders: "I think the focus on the ball was key," Sanders said. "We've all been around footballs, and we all know that they don't bounce square. It's not like a basketball – this thing could have gone anywhere – and Nick is determined to pick it up and take it to the house. I think this photo captures that mindset."
Q: How special was it for you as a teacher that Gavin captured such a terrific photo of one of the game's biggest moments?
"It just helps affirm that we've been teaching everyone who comes in here the right way, and that he was in the right place to succeed," Sanders said. "It shows that what we've taught has paid off, and this was by far his best game of the season."
