In a recent game at Camden Yards, a rookie Associated Press photographer captured a pivotal moment for the Baltimore Orioles, demonstrating both technical prowess and storytelling ability. Stephanie Scarbrough, who joined AP just three months ago, showcased her talent by documenting a game-changing play that ended the Orioles' losing streak.
The Baltimore Orioles, a team with a rich history dating back to 1901, faced the San Francisco Giants on September 19, 2024. The Orioles, known for their orange and black colors and bird mascot, were struggling with a three-game losing streak. This slump was particularly concerning for a franchise that has claimed three World Series titles and nine division championships throughout its storied past.
As the game entered its final stages, tension mounted in the ballpark, which can seat up to 45,971 fans. With the score tied 3-3 in the ninth inning, Anthony Santander stepped up to the plate. Santander, who made his MLB debut with the Orioles in 2017, faced a challenging 0-2 count against the Giants' reliever. After several foul tips, he connected with a slider, sending the ball over the fence for a game-winning two-run homer.
Scarbrough's decision to position herself in the upper deck of the stadium proved crucial in capturing this moment. Using a Sony A9 III with a 400mm lens on a monopod, she took advantage of the 3 p.m. sunlight to create interesting shadows on the field. This choice of equipment and location allowed her to document the action despite being far from the field.
The resulting photograph is a testament to Scarbrough's skill and artistic vision. By tightly cropping the image to remove distracting elements like protective netting, she created a composition that draws the viewer's attention to the corners of the frame. The empty center emphasizes the celebratory action, with Santander approaching his excited teammates amidst streams of water.
This image not only captures a significant moment for the Orioles but also reflects the team's place in baseball history. Camden Yards, opened in 1992, is renowned for its retro-classic design, featuring a 19th-century warehouse that adds to its unique character. The stadium, located near Baltimore's Inner Harbor, has been home to numerous memorable moments in the franchise's history.
The Orioles' victory against the Giants, a team with its own impressive legacy of eight World Series championships, showcases the ongoing competitive spirit in Major League Baseball. It's worth noting that the Orioles have a longstanding rivalry with the New York Yankees, adding another layer of significance to each win as they compete in the highly competitive American League East.
Scarbrough's photograph not only documents a crucial play but also tells a broader story about the Orioles' season and their place in the sport. With 44 players inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame and a farm system that has produced numerous MLB stars, the Orioles continue to be a significant force in baseball.
As the team looks to build on this victory and potentially add to their collection of six retired numbers, Scarbrough's image serves as a reminder of the power of sports photography to capture and preserve these pivotal moments in a team's journey.