Team Phoenix

To be a Phoenix or not to be…there is no question.  After three days of freezing cold soccer tryouts on the FHS field, these boys were given a jersey and a place on the roster.  There was no question that being a Phoenix, in that moment, was a pretty incredible feeling. These thirty-six young gentlemen, with an appetite for speed, slide, and score, smiled for my camera last week.  I had the privilege of capturing Farmington High’s 2023 Team Pictures and what a blast it was.

Picture Day and Fingers Crossed

The date had been set and many fingers were crossed that the weather would hold.  Utah has had a very white winter.  The first week of March was definitely coming in ‘like a lion’.  As a couple mothers and I scouted out places for the boy’s portraits, we wondered if outdoor portraits would work.  The day of scouting was filled with big wind and almost freezing temps.  On the day of team pictures it started to snow during the noon hour.  Aaaah.  So many prayers were being whispered to the snowy skies that day.  Then, at 3:30 p.m. the snow had stopped, some clouds lingered, and a hint of sun shined.  Let’s GO!

Right after I arrived at Farmington High, I grabbed thirteen ‘larger than life’ seniors and ran out the door.  I hoped these senior portraits would encapsulate the spirit of their love for the game.  As we positioned the boys, I couldn’t pass up the stunning architecture of FHS.  Bright yellows, turquoise, and the incredible lines found in the windows.  Perfect!  As we jogged up to the field, the majestic Wasatch Mountains towered behind them for yet another incredible backdrop.  The design of the phoenix on the field was also an incredible compliment to their stance.  The boys laughed, smiled, and gave me a great ‘don’t mess with FHS’ vibe in various shots.  Wishing you the best season yet, Class of 2023.  This field will miss you in years to come.

Say Cheese

Now, it was GO time!  With all the boy’s standing single file ready for serious, smile, strong, and skills, as my shutter kept time.  Soccer momma’s Marcy, Kelsey, Rachel, and Erin were lifesavers as we positioned 36 boys for individual stardom on ‘film’.  With the phoenix’s wing and the bleachers as a backdrop we were ready.  

“Stand straight.  Hold the ball.  Serious face.  Now smile.  Now crouch. No, not like that!  Like this.  Good, now do whatever you want.  You got this!  Great job.  Next!” 

I only got hit by a soccer ball once. LOL.

Everybody In

Staging the entire team for our final shot, with coaches, goalies, players and managers was fast and furious.  The super soccer mommas helped me set everything up. The boys were anxious to get on the field and train.  It was an intense hour and a half.  For the last shot, I was busy rotating shoulders, counting jerseys, and holding on to a bit of luck.  

Soccer goal? Check.   Incredible coaches?  Check.  Super managers?  Titanium team? Double check.  “Say cheese!  Now give your neighbor a hug…..and that’s a wrap!”

It was an incredible afternoon to remember.  Thanks to the snow gods, for taking a break to watch the beginnings of a ‘larger than life’ futbol team, take flight.

Go Phoenix!