PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Derrick Hamilton is a freelance photographer for The Associated Press. He has worked with the Associated Press for 15 years covering sporting events in the Philadelphia area.
Why this photo?
It was filmed to highlight the extent of the extreme rain that delayed France’s match against Iraq on Monday. Weather delays are rare in World Cup matches, but this photo shows the intensity of the rain and another side of the world’s “beautiful game.”
How this photo was made
This was taken with a Sony A9III and a 12-24mm lens. As we were guided away from the field and entrance, I set the camera low and wide to focus on the flooding and the amount of water flowing from the field.
Why is it effective?
Every moment of the World Cup is meticulously planned. Every detail has been carefully chosen to highlight the sport on the grandest of stages. One of the main factors that cannot be controlled in outdoor stadiums is the weather. At this time, the packed audience hurried from their seats. There was no one on the sideline, which was crowded with players, teams and media. Only the rain remained. A flooded entrance, a lonely man’s silhouette, and an empty chair capture the chaotic turn to rain that made news of the match.
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AP World Cup coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/fifa-world-cup
