Back in the Game: Courtside with the Winnipeg Sea Bears

It’s been a minute since my last blog post — the truth is, when you're constantly behind the lens, it’s easy to forget to step in front of the screen and share the stories behind the work. But after a recent courtside session with the Winnipeg Sea Bears, I knew this was the project that deserved to bring me back.

For those who aren’t familiar, the Sea Bears are part of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) — a league that’s been exploding with talent, energy, and serious Canadian pride. And let me tell you: if you haven’t experienced the electric atmosphere of a CEBL game in person, you’re missing out.

The Assignment

I was invited to photograph a Sea Bears home game — and it wasn’t just about capturing the action on the court. The ask was bigger: Tell the story of the team through light, shadow, and split-second timing.

I live for this kind of challenge.

From the pre-game rituals in the tunnel to the explosive dunks and tense timeouts, this shoot was a chance to blend my fast-paced event instincts with my signature style: dramatic lighting, sharp contrast, and images that feel alive.

Shooting in the Arena: Controlled Chaos

Arena lighting is no joke. It’s a combination of high ceilings, unpredictable spotlights, and a lot of movement in every direction. I brought out a kit built for speed — dual bodies, and fast zoom lenses that never left my hip. I wasn’t tethered. I was on the move, just like the athletes.

My goal was to show the grit behind the game:

• The tension in the player’s face as they lined up for a free throw.

• The coach’s expression as the game turned in the final minutes.

• Fans on their feet, completely locked in.

• Sweat. Hustle. Focus.

There’s a rhythm to shooting sports. It’s not just about snapping the dunk — it’s about catching the moment before the leap. The second of anticipation that says everything.

Favourite Frames

There’s one frame I keep coming back to:

A Sea Bears player mid-drive, ball cradled low, one defender in his path and another shadowing him from behind. The arena lights catch just enough sweat on his arms to make him look like a warrior in motion. That shot doesn’t just show skill — it shows intensity.

Another highlight? The fan shots. The Sea Bears have one of the most passionate crowds I’ve photographed — painted faces, homemade signs, and a sea of noise that made my job easy.

What I Learned (or Re-Learned)

Sports photography forces you to trust your instincts. You can't stage it. You can't repeat it. You're either ready or you're not. And after a few months of focusing on artistic portraiture and fantasy concepts, this assignment felt like a high-speed reset — a reminder of why I started shooting in the first place.

Wrapping It Up

This shoot wasn’t just another gig. It was a chance to stretch, sweat, and shoot with purpose. Huge thanks to the Winnipeg Sea Bears for the trust and access. I’ll be watching their season closely — and I hope to be back on the sidelines with a lens in hand again soon.

If you want to see the full gallery from this session, head over to my Instagram @DatewithF8sports — or hit the contact page if your team, league, or brand is ready for photography that captures more than just the scoreboard.

Until next time —Stay focused, stay fierce, and shoot what moves you.

— Steve