Cosmos Home Opener Photos: The Writer & Photographer Relationship

Cesar Diaz: As Editor-in-Chief for LatinoSports.com, I’m proud of the way we showcase the talent of our Photographers. They work hard and they deserve to be recognized. Allow me to explain to you the importance of a healthy relationship between the Writer and Photographer. It’s from an old article but it still relevant today:

In today’s TMZ, Facebook and Twitter world, people want to see photos. In the case of sports, a photograph can capture the mood of the game.

While I may write about the game, Bill Menzel is my eyes. I enjoy telling him that we’re the “Stockton & Malone” of Soccer Coverage. The reality is that every game I cover, I’m sitting down taking notes while Bill is all over the place taking photos with multiple cameras and lenses.

A typical routine between the two of us on game-day consist a pregame meal where we’re breaking down the game. From angles of the pitch, to the fans in attendance, and the type of photos that should be taken… we discuss it all. Once the game begins, he’s out in the field and I’m observing the game.

At halftime, we routinely discuss the first half and start planning by when I’m going to post my game recap.

The benefits of having a photographer as good as Bill is that we’re in sync in the style of photos that we appreciate from a soccer match. If there’s a specific photo I need, I can simply text him. Another huge advantage is the simple fact that while I may not remember every second of the game, a photo of his serves as an excellent visual aid and reminder.

Bill’s photos has helped shape my articles because while I may have an idea of what I want to write, his photos time after time has given me an angle that I may have overlooked.

When it’s said and done, many photographers like Bill really work hard during a game and then there’s the post-game work. While I have to work on a game recap, he has to review the photos and email them to me so I can have a complete article. Knowing the dedication and efforts he puts forth in his work, I always insist on editing and resizing his photos. It’s the least thing I could do.

The only thing that’s tragic about the Writer & Photographer relationship is that I’m unable to utilize most of Bill’s photos. Personally, I feel it’s an injustice to his craft because he truly understands soccer and the fans who follow the game.

So as long as I’m playing a role here at ThisIsCosmosCountry, we will always highlight the work of anyone who wishes to cover a match for us. While it would be easy to post these photos in a photo gallery where all you have to is click on the thumbnail, I want you to scroll down and be forced to see the other photos.

I want to thank Anthony Merced for reaching out to use and offering his service. Anthony Merced is also a filmmaker, photographer and blogger. Check out more at www.merlardo.com. Enjoy his photos and follow him at @AttitudeAJM.