Deployment: The Seattle Double
This time last year, I was headed north to the Dempsey with a lot of questions and a single camera. Now that I’ve got my feet wet, I’m headed back for a double-header weekend in Seattle that feels like a massive step up in intensity.
The Mission
The schedule is packed. On Friday, I’ll be trackside covering the elite collegiate fields for DyeStat. I’m currently in a holding pattern for the specific assignment details, but I’ll update the hub as soon as the objective is locked.
On Saturday, the focus shifts to culture and depth at Mile City, where I’ll be shooting for WestcoastXC. The energy of an indoor mile is hard to beat—the smaller track and higher velocity create an atmosphere that hits different than outdoor track.
Tactical Logistics
Traffic in the corridor is a nightmare, so I’m pivoting my logistics. My game plan for Friday is to drive to Tacoma and jump on public transit for the remainder of the trip. I’d rather save the gas money and the parking fees and use that time to prep for the shoot.
The Loadout
Indoor lighting is a notorious "punisher" of gear, so I’m bringing the fast glass.
Primary: Canon 1DX + Sigma 85mm f/1.4
Secondary: Canon 5D MKIII + Rokinon 16mm f/2.0
While many photographers shy away from shooting wide open because of the razor-thin depth of field, I’m a glutton for punishment. I’m taking my chances at f/1.4 and f/2.0. The goal is higher shutter speeds and lower ISOs, capturing enough clean data to produce high-impact, editorial results.
Targets of Interest
There are a few athletes I’m specifically looking to track this weekend:
The WSU Standouts: E. Kurui and S. Kipchoge.
J. Pretre (Cal): I missed him last year, but after shooting his younger brother on the high school circuit, I’m aiming to snag some defining shots of the elder Pretre.
The Moll Sisters (UW): It's not a running event, but when world-class talent originates from your hometown (Olympia), you pay attention.
Alauna Carstens (Evergreen State): A local star looking to make a statement.
Ezra Teeples (Boise State): Returning to home turf as a freshman.
Beyond the big names, I’m looking forward to the "unknowns"—learning about the runners who haven't been on my radar yet and documenting their work.
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