APA NY | Capturing the Moment: Sports Photography Essentials with Thomas E. Franklin

In this presentation, we will explore the exciting world of sports photography, focusing on how to capture the intensity and emotion of athletic events, both big and small. We will begin by discussing essential tips on positioning, anticipating the action, and understanding the sport you are photographing to better predict key moments. Additionally, we will touch upon the necessary equipment and how to leverage a variety of gear, from professional to more accessible options.

We will also examine some significant sporting events Thomas E. Franklin has covered as a news and sports photographer and multimedia journalist, discussing how to capture key moments and what makes these images stand out. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced photographer looking to refine your skills, this presentation will provide valuable insights and inspiration to elevate your sports photography.

This is a hybrid event: You can attend in-person at the Adorama Event Space, or live stream on the Adorama Events YouTube channel. Register & get the live stream link.

Thomas E. Franklin, a distinguished photographer, journalist, and filmmaker

Thomas E. Franklin, a distinguished photographer, journalist, and filmmaker, is an Associate Professor of Multimedia Journalism at Montclair State University in NJ. His renowned photograph of three firefighters raising the U.S. flag at Ground Zero on September 11, 2001, became an iconic symbol of resilience and hope, featured on the Heroes stamp by the United States Postal Service, and played a crucial role in raising over $10 million for 9/11 victims.

Since 2016, Franklin's work has focused on immigration and forced migration, highlighted in his project "Seeking Refuge," currently exhibited virtually at the Paterson Museum. Franklin's documentary work has taken him to Central Mexico and the U.S.-Mexico border, where his footage of migrants was published by the Los Angeles Times syndicate, and to Lesvos, Greece, where he produced "The World Arrived at Our Doorstep," a poignant portrayal of the Syrian Refugee crisis.

In October 2024, Franklin has an exhibit scheduled at the Romano Gallery in Blairstown, NJ, entitled "La Buena Vida: A Photographic Exploration of Cuba." The exhibit is a visual celebration of everyday life in Cuba, where the vibrant and friendly culture thrives amidst the challenges imposed by the harsh realities of economic sanctions and trade restrictions initiated by the U.S. in the 1960s. The images showcase the rich tapestry of Cuban life and culture.

Prior to his academic career, Franklin was a distinguished staff photographer for The Record and Northjersey.com, covering a wide range of news and sports assignments. Transitioning to multimedia journalism in 2007, he spearheaded award-winning projects on topics like the Heroin Epidemic and environmental issues. Franklin has covered many big sporting events, including the World Series, Super Bowl, NHL finals, NBA finals, the U.S. Open in golf and tennis, and NCAA finals, as well as countless local and regional games.

Since joining Montclair State, Franklin has developed innovative courses in visual storytelling and led student reporting trips to locations such as Yellowstone, Greece, Puerto Rico, and Scotland. Under his mentorship, students have earned prestigious journalism awards, including the Edward R. Murrow Award and a national collegiate Emmy® award. Franklin's expertise extends beyond academia; he frequently appears as an on-air guest, public speaker, and consultant, offering multimedia training to media professionals.