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Through The Lens......

Through The Lens......

Jay Taylor28 Dec 2018 - 10:45
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An interview with club photographer Matthew Appleby

1. What was your first game covering TAFC and what were your first impressions of the club and ground?

It was a pre-season friendly against a Premier League XI a couple of seasons ago. I hadn't been to any non-league game before that so there were some notable differences from the Premier/Football League. Mostly how welcome you feel as a regular or a newcomer. The pitch was immaculate as usual and the new main stand had just been opened.

2. What has been the most difficult TAFC game to cover as a photographer and why?

I think perhaps some of the early away night games with my old camera were the most frustrating. I was still very new to photography and struggled to get many shots I would be happy with nowadays. Games like the abandoned Sheffield game recently where the conditions were not at all pleasant also provide a different type of challenge.

3. What game stands out as the best match and why?

My third competitive match, Scarborough in the FA Cup Qualifying Round. 2-0 down at half-time, come back to win 3-2 with a late winner. Big crowd and the game didn't disappoint. Should also mention the 4-3 against Trafford, another late winner, and the 5-0 win over Bamber Bridge was a complete demolition of a top quality side. Will Annan's the man.

4. How did you get into photography?

I've always had a vague interest in it, it was even one of my modules at uni, but it wasn't until a few years back that I took it more seriously, got myself a decent entry level DSLR camera and I've loved it ever since. I couldn't recommend it highly enough, as a hobby or whatever you'd like to take from it.

5. What’s the most rewarding part of your role?

Being able to meet a wide range of people and experience all the ups and downs of non-league football has been a fascinating and enjoyable journey. It's also nice to get recognition for the work you're doing, whether that's through publications or receiving some incredibly flattering feedback.

6. What’s the biggest challenge photographing football?

I've covered quite a few different sports now and football is still up there as one of the fastest and hardest to shoot. It definitely gets easier with experience, but it's a constant test of your reactions and your eye for a good shot. The ultimate challenge for any football photographer is any celebration shots and that's all down to positioning, preparedness and a whole lot of luck. Another challenge I set myself is to get at least one photograph of every player each match, if that means sacrificing the odd celebration picture then so be it.

7. And finally, which Taddy player do you enjoy snapping most?

Pete Davidson and Corey Roper are always good value for some let's say interesting facial expressions/general reactions.

I’m sure you’ll all agree that Matthew’s pictures are nothing short of excellent.

#ATAW

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