Passion for Sports Photography Shines Through Generations

Photographers around the world are capturing the spirit of sports at every level, from elite competitions to local matches. In Christchurch, New Zealand, several passionate individuals are making their mark in sports photography, showcasing talent and community spirit through their lenses.

Martin Hunter, a seasoned photographer with 44 years of experience, exemplifies this dedication. His career has included work with prominent newspapers such as The Star and agencies like Getty and Photosport. Currently, he contracts with New Zealand Rugby. Despite photographing high-stakes events like the Olympic Games and Rugby World Cup finals, Hunter finds equal excitement in grassroots matches. “I challenge myself to take the same mentality into a football game at Garrick Park as a test match or World Cup final,” he shared, emphasizing his commitment to capturing athletes at their best.

Hunter’s journey began in 1981 when he started as a cadet at The Dominion in Wellington, choosing hands-on experience over formal education. He recalls being thrust into the tumultuous environment of the 1981 Springbok tour protests early in his career. “As a young kid, I had never experienced police in riot gear or big protests,” he noted, highlighting how these experiences shaped his ability to think on his feet. He also photographed a landmark moment in tennis history in 1985 when Boris Becker became the youngest winner at Wimbledon.

For Thomas Bird, photography has evolved from a hobby to a burgeoning part-time career. Currently studying graphic design and moving image at Canterbury University, Bird balances his coursework with photography for local teams, including Christchurch United and Christchurch Boys’ High School’s first XV. His work has gained traction, with one of his Instagram reels recently garnering over 500,000 views. “The growth recently has been insane,” Bird stated, reflecting on his journey.

Bird’s passion for photography was ignited during his time as a first XI footballer and cricketer at St Thomas of Canterbury College. He discovered his creative side while attending sports games, which led him to establish his brand, Thomas Creative. Despite now spending winter weekends behind the camera, he still plays cricket for his Burnside West University team during summer months.

In Lincoln, Harris, a full-time mother, has found solace in photography following a serious car accident 13 years ago. Initially capturing moments of her son Harry playing junior rugby for Prebbleton, she now follows him as he plays for the Selwyn Schools team. “Photography is the only thing I do that can get me away from the noise of my everyday life,” she shared. Despite the challenges of being an amateur photographer, including limited financial rewards, Harris cherishes the personal connections her photos capture.

“I might earn a couple of hundred dollars a season,” she explained, expressing a desire for greater financial stability in her photography. As Harry prepares to leave school, she hopes to continue documenting his sports journey, whether he remains active in the game or cheers on his friends at club level.

For Cozzone, photography is a family affair. Together with his wife, Megan, they run Green Melon Photography, specializing in portraits and commercial headshots. Their sons, Mitchell, Ashton, Mason, and Colton, are also diving into sports photography, covering games for Cashmere Technical and contributing to the family business.

Mitchell, now in the United States on an overseas experience, has taken the initiative to cover games independently under the handle Dust Media. “I can rely on Ashton to put the photos in Lightroom, edit, and watermark them,” Cozzone noted, appreciating how the family collaborates in their shared passion.

The connections formed through sports photography extend beyond the camera lens, fostering bonds among families and communities. As each photographer captures moments in their unique style, they contribute to a rich tapestry of sports culture in Christchurch and beyond.