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Howard Schatz


2020 PROFESSIONAL SPORTS PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR

Q: Tell us a little bit about your background!

I have had a camera since the 60’s and have never stopped employing it to say something.

Q: When was the moment you realized you wanted to pursue photography professionally?

It just happened.

Q: Who or what do you turn to when you are having trouble getting inspired?

Anything and everything has the potential to inspire. It comes from all directions—one does well to be open and aware.

Q: What would you say is the hardest thing about your profession?

My constant challenge is to surprise and delight myself. Dissatisfaction with “pretty good,” “OK,” and “nice” is essential.

Q: You have been in photography for more than 20 years and have captured photographs in a wide profile of genres. Which one would you say is your favorite?

Photography offers infinite opportunities to see and interpret the world. It’s unending and therefore none to be favored.

Q: What was the most challenging part of capturing your winning photo series, “The Shape of the NFL”?

Access is a vital and essential aspect in making photographs; access to NFL players is tough.

Q: What was the biggest lesson this experience taught you?

A lesson I’ve known intuitively is the necessity of tenacity.

Q: Why did you want to enter this particular photo series into the IPA?

It was time.

Q: What does winning this competition mean to you?

Any publication, recognition, award or accolade ought to be considered a “brick.” It takes lots of bricks to build a castle. This was a cornerstone.

Q: If you could do anything or go anywhere, what would your dream photography project be?

I am in my dream.

Q: What is next for you, are you working on anything right now?

A few projects: “Growing Up,” “Modern/modern Dance,” “Pairs,” “The Shape of the NFL,” bit.ly/The-Shape-of-the-NFL and…….

Q: What would be your main piece of advice to photographers just starting out?

I am encouraging, positive and offer help when asked.