17³Ô¹ÏÔÚÏß

In this special interview, we have the privilege of sitting down with Isabel Infantes, a talented emerging photographer, to shed light on her remarkable journey in the world of sports photography, with a particular focus on capturing the essence of FIFA Women’s Campaign.

From her early passion for visual arts to studying Fine Arts and Photojournalism, Isabel has carved a unique path in the photography world. Having worked with prestigious news agencies and private clients, she has been a key figure in documenting the exhilarating moments of female athletes during FIFA Women’s Campaign.

Join us as we delve into Isabel’s experiences, insights, and the profound impact of female sports photography. Discover how she brings forth the emotions and stories behind the game, celebrating the indomitable spirit of women in sports through her lens.

Check out Isabel’s portfolio .

Q1. Can you share with us your journey as a female photographer in the field of sports? What initially attracted you to sports photography, and how did you navigate the challenges and opportunities that came your way?

In 2012, I landed my first job with a regional publisher in London. One of the newspapers I worked for was the Newham Recorder, situated in the same borough as the historic Boleyn Ground in Upton Park, which had been the home ground of West Ham United FC for many years.

Although my role as a news photographer didn’t include sports coverage, I took the initiative to request assistance from the sports team in gaining access to Premier League games during the weekends. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience, from the electrifying atmosphere to the rapid pace of the games.

However, there were some challenges that I’ve since been working on. Physically, the job demanded carrying heavy gear and remaining agile enough to switch lenses swiftly to capture critical moments without losing focus on the action. Additionally, as a young woman from abroad, I had to establish my own space in a predominantly male-dominated environment. At times, I became my own worst critic, allowing my mood to be influenced by the quality of my photos after each match.

Over the years, I’ve learned to overcome these obstacles. I now focus on celebrating my small achievements as much as addressing the negative aspects, and I’ve worked on boosting my confidence.

Q2. As a female photographer in a predominantly male-dominated industry, have you encountered any unique challenges or biases? How have you overcome them, and what advice would you give to aspiring female sports photographers facing similar hurdles?

Undoubtedly, there exists a significant disproportion in the ratio of female to male sports photographers. Fortunately, I can say that my colleagues have always been very respectful, and I don’t believe gender has played a key role in any form of discrimination. Nevertheless, there have been isolated instances where I encountered patronizing or disconcerting comments. However, such occurrences are not the norm. In general, I believe it is more about proving my skills and dedication rather than merely being a woman.

To any aspiring female sports photographers, I encourage you not to be daunted by the male-dominated industry. If sports photography is your passion, pursue it relentlessly. You possess the ability to overcome any obstacles, and your talent will ultimately speak volumes.

Q3. The FIFA Women’s campaign aims to celebrate the achievements of female athletes and promote gender equality in sports. In your opinion, how important is it for female photographers to have representation and recognition in capturing these significant moments?

Right now, the importance of female representation should no longer be questioned; it should be the standard, an essential aspect of all fields, including photography, especially in sports. Gender equality must be championed as vigorously in photography as it is in any other industry. For a long time, the status quo dictated the hiring process, often relying on recommendations from male colleagues, resulting in fewer opportunities for women.

However, the landscape is evolving, and thankfully, remarkable female photographers have shattered barriers, paving the way for others to follow. We, both women and men, must continue to work towards a more inclusive and balanced representation in photography and beyond. It’s time to create an environment where talent and skill are the decisive factors, regardless of gender.

Q4. As a witness to countless sports events, including women’s football matches, what elements or emotions do you strive to capture in your photographs? How do you approach storytelling through your imagery?

Keep your eye glued to the camera until the very end, and even afterward, continue carrying it, just in case. Stay vigilant, not only focused on the main action but also on everything happening around you. Some of the finest images emerge from the atmosphere enveloping the game or the moments following the primary action. These instances can make all the difference and infuse the story with emotional depth and context.

Q5. Sports photography often requires split-second timing and a sharp eye for capturing the decisive moment. Could you share any tips or techniques that have helped you excel in capturing those intense and emotional moments in sports?

Anticipation forms the foundation. It involves thinking ahead and being prepared before the action unfolds. By studying the work of experienced photographers who have been in the field for years, you can learn valuable insights and techniques.

Q6. How do you think the landscape of women’s sports photography has evolved over the years? Have you noticed any positive changes in terms of recognition, opportunities, and the portrayal of female athletes?

Though there’s still a long journey ahead, notable improvements have been made. In recent years, major picture agencies and football clubs have begun to recognize the significance of diversity and equal employment opportunities. There has been a commendable effort to integrate young female photographers into their teams.

A mere five years ago, female athletes in football received little recognition, limited media coverage, and minimal television exposure. However, the landscape is rapidly changing. Today, events like the Women’s World Cup have gained prominence, with countries like Australia wholeheartedly supporting the tournament. This shift is expected to have a significant impact on local sports, inspiring future generations of young girls to engage in sports and contributing to greater gender equality in the field.

Q7. Your work has not only enriched our collections but has also inspired viewers worldwide. How does it feel to know that your photographs have the power to evoke emotions, tell stories, and create connections with audiences around the globe?

Witnessing my images published worldwide is a truly gratifying experience. While I relish capturing sports moments, my true passion lies in focusing on the subtle details that can convey emotions beyond the actual action. If any of these images can leave the smallest impact on someone else, that, to me, is an incredible achievement.

Q8. With the FIFA Women’s campaign, we aim to inspire aspiring photographers and women seeking to excel in creative professions. What message or advice would you like to convey to those who aspire to break barriers and make their mark in sports photography?

Seize the opportunity and have faith in yourself; don’t hold back. Trust your instincts, for they are wiser than you may realize. If something feels right, it’s the path worth pursuing.

In closing, we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Isabel Infantes for sharing her invaluable perspectives and experiences with us during this insightful interview. Through her dedication to the art of sports photography, Isabel has not only highlighted the talent and strength of female athletes but also empowered aspiring photographers around the world. Her passion and storytelling ability have truly inspired us all. Thank you, Isabel, for being a trailblazer in the world of visual storytelling and for reminding us of the incredible power of images to celebrate and uplift.