The Game Magazine interviews Bahho Kara to gain insights into how young photographers handle major events like EURO 2024. He shares his journey into photography, the challenges, and the routines of capturing intense football matches during the tournament.
In the Field with Photographer Bahho Kara: Capturing EURO 2024
Bahho Kara has built his career on a passion for capturing the excitement of sporting events. His journey began with a simple university seminar, sparking an enthusiasm for photography that has taken him to some of the most prestigious arenas in the world.
Covering EURO 2024 stands out as a highlight in Bahho’s career. “The biggest event I’ve participated in so far is EURO 2024, and it’s indescribably beautiful,” he says. With a goal to “enjoy every game and capture the emotions of the fans and players,” Bahho carefully plans each shoot, ensuring all equipment and logistics are in place.
As he covers the event, Bahho closely monitors iconic players and aims to document the important moments of EURO 2024. His routine during the tournament involves early preparations, rapid photo editing, and timely distribution of images to media outlets. Despite the pressures, Bahho remains focused: “Once I’ve sent out the first few photos during a game, I get into my workflow, and the rest becomes routine.”
Read his interview and get an inside look at his EURO 2024 coverage.
“The goal is to enjoy every game and capture the emotions of the fans and players who give their all on and off the field.” – Bahho Kara.
Bahho, can you tell us about yourself? Why did you start sports photography?
I developed a passion for photography through a simple introductory seminar at university, and it has stuck with me ever since.
Did you cover a major event as a sports photographer? How did it help you?
The Champions League, with its floodlit games, has its own unique atmosphere and character. It offers the opportunity to capture international matches that are followed worldwide. Traveling to places like Madrid or London for photoshoots is an incredible experience. However, the biggest event I’ve participated in so far is EURO 2024, and it’s indescribably beautiful.
“Two lenses are crucial for a football game: a 400mm and a 70-200mm, both with an f/2.8 aperture. Additionally, a wide-angle lens is useful for the behind-the-goal camera, although I use it only occasionally.” – Bahho Kara.
Are there any goals you would like to achieve in this tournament? Any challenges so far?
The goal is to enjoy every game and capture the emotions of the fans and players who give their all on and off the field.
Organizing everything before a game is a challenge that requires a lot of time and planning, from accreditation to parking passes to checking all the photographic equipment.
How does a typical day look like for you while covering a football tournament?
In the morning, I recharge all the batteries and clear the memory cards. With the printed parking pass, accreditation, and photo vest, I head to the stadium. After parking and going through security, I enter the media center where colleagues update metadata and team rosters to label the photos quickly and accurately.
Once the game starts, I follow my workflow, and by halftime, I’ve already labeled, edited, and sent out 100 photos for broadcasters and media portals. After the final whistle, I capture the last emotions and then edit and send additional images.
What equipment do you consider essential for covering a football tournament?
Two lenses are crucial for a football game: a 400mm and a 70-200mm, both with an f/2.8 aperture. Additionally, a wide-angle lens is useful for the behind-the-goal camera, although I use it only occasionally.
How do you handle the pressure under tight deadlines?
The pressure sets in early. Once I’ve sent out the first few photos during a game, I get into my workflow, and the rest becomes routine. Unless there’s a technical issue, in which case, improvisation and calm, appropriate reactions are necessary.
Are there any particular moments or players you are focusing on in this tournament?
Ronaldo will probably play his last EURO tournament. As a legend, he is clearly in focus. Besides him, I’m also watching young stars like Lamine Yamal and Arda Güler.
