Photographic Media (Level 7)

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Zoe Sandford

This photographic series explores amateur sport through the visual language of high-end commercial photography.  

Six athletes were photographed across hurling, hockey, rugby, tennis, golf and badminton. Each subject was captured in five ways: in the locker room, in the stadium, in action, as a blur, and using LED lighting.  

Together, these images reflect the discipline and identity of the serious amateur athlete. Amateur athletes train hard, face selection pressure, and perform under real match-day intensity.  

This project recognises their commitment by giving them the same visual treatment as professionals. Shot in a controlled studio with cinematic lighting and AI backgrounds, each image elevates its subject. Grassroots brings overlooked athletes into the spotlight they have earned. 

A hurler in a Dublin jersey adjusts a helmet while standing in a stadium with rows of blue seats in the background.
A hurler in a Dublin jersey sits in front of blue lockers holding a helmet and resting a hurl on the floor.
A hockey player in a red uniform crouches on a floodlit pitch, holding a hockey stick with a ball at her feet.
A hockey player in a red uniform sits in front of lockers, holding a hockey stick and looking directly at the camera.
A rugby player in a black and white kit kneels on a pitch, positioning a rugby ball under bright stadium lights.
A rugby player in a black and white kit sits holding a rugby ball in a dark locker room.
A badminton player in an orange shirt stands with folded arms, holding a racket in an indoor sports hall.
A badminton player in an orange shirt prepares to serve a shuttlecock under dramatic blue and red lighting.

Photographic Media