Phoenix Suns' Josh Okogie Finds New Passion in Photography
Phoenix Suns guard Josh Okogie, renowned for his defensive skills and relentless energy on the basketball court, has discovered a new off-court passion: photography. This summer, Okogie has been channeling his enthusiasm into capturing vivid moments through a lens, a hobby he picked up rather spontaneously.
Okogie's interest in photography sparked during a vacation in Milan, Italy, aligned with Fashion Week. Encouraged by a friend, he decided to test his skills, investing in a Sony a7 III camera. The immediacy of his curiosity led him to various opportunities, including capturing live basketball games.
Despite his determination, Okogie admits that the journey hasn't been without its hurdles. "I'm still not good. I'll say 90-95% of my pictures are BS, but I feel like I've gotten better -- slightly -- each day I've taken pictures," he candidly shares. His foray into photography emphasizes the learning curve of understanding settings, white balance, and mastering the camera's functionalities.
Challenges of Capturing Live Sports
The dynamic and fast-paced nature of basketball presents specific challenges for an amateur photographer. “It's very fast. Every time somebody dunks, by the time I take a picture, he's already done finished the dunk and he's already playing defense," Okogie notes. Adjusting to the speed of the game and capturing the perfect angle remain crucial areas for improvement.
Even though the majority of his photos do not meet his standards, Okogie takes every shot as a lesson. "I feel like the biggest improvement I have to make is adjusting to the speed of the game and not only anticipating, but also about being at the right angle to get the best picture." His persistence signifies his dedication, much like his approach on the basketball court.
Learning from the Best
Okogie admires seasoned NBA photographers David Sherman of the Minnesota Timberwolves and Barry Gossage from the Phoenix Suns. "That's my guy. He films the Wolves and he also films a lot of other NBA-sanctioned events. So I've always paid close attention to David," says Okogie, reflecting on the insights he’s garnered from observing their techniques.
Aiming to Capture Emotion
The ultimate goal for Okogie isn't just to capture moments but to encapsulate the emotions behind them. “Because you want the picture to replicate the feeling of the play for those who weren't there," he explains. This sentiment mirrors the intensity and passion he brings to the sport of basketball.
Okogie has plans to broaden his portfolio by shooting WNBA games during the offseason. His venture into photography adds a new dimension to his persona, blending his athletic vigor with artistic sensitivity.
On-Court Ambitions Remain Strong
While photography has become a significant part of his off-season, Okogie remains wholeheartedly committed to his basketball career. Recently signing a two-year, $16 million extension with the Phoenix Suns, he’s focused on bringing his trademark energy to both ends of the court. His discussions with new Suns coach Mike Budenholzer have fueled his ambition to elevate the team’s performance.
Okogie’s vision for himself within the team is clear: "My mentality is just to go out there and just try to give this team the energy that they need on both sides of the floor." He aspires to be the driving force, saying, "We have a lot of talent on this team, but I want to be the battery of this team, if that makes sense. The motor of this team, to get people going, get people excited to play, get people moving."
Optimism for the Upcoming Season
As the Western Conference gears up for a competitive season, Okogie is optimistic about the Suns’ potential. "The West is going to be really competitive next year. I feel like we can be as good as we want to be. I feel like our ceiling is as high as we make it. I'm excited. I feel like if we get a good training camp and we start to jell, the sky's the limit for us."
Whether through the lens or on the hardwood, Okogie’s dedication to improving each day stands as a testament to his relentless work ethic. With both photography and basketball as his outlets, Josh Okogie continues to capture the essence of passion and commitment in every frame and play.