World Police & Fire Games

It's the Olympics for police officers and firefighters, and by far one of the coolest events I've ever photographed. (Full album on the Collections tab!)

I had basically zero experience yet with professional photography, but someone sent me a link to this sports event I'd never heard of and said they were looking for volunteer photographers of all levels. At first I was like no way I'm nowhere near qualified, but then I thought to myself the worst they'll say is no and it's not like I have a career riding on this, so why not? I emailed with my interest in the position and sure enough they accepted! Little did I know I was about to have one of the best week's of my life.

I have always been athletic and competitive and held a love for sports. But I had no idea the fire that was awaiting in my soul when I combined that with my passion for photography.

Spending an entire week doing nothing but sports photography was beyond anything I could have imagined. Being able to capture the sweat dripping from an exhausted athlete during crossfit, standing in the dugout to get a closer shot of players sliding into bases, or even in the middle of an open field capturing the mud flinging off a runner's shoes, was all exhilarating. Just like that I developed an undying passion for sports photography and I cannot WAIT for an opportunity like this again.

This event happens every two years, each year being in a different country, and it includes police officers and firefighters from all over the world. I would highly encourage other photographers to volunteer at this event if it comes near you, especially if you're into sports to any degree. It is definitely a once in a lifetime experience and an awesome way to build your portfolio.