Brighton Colorado Sports Photos | 5th Grade Bulldogs Media Day

Almost exactly a year ago, I had the chance to create something new and exciting for Holly’s son—a dramatic sports photo session with smoke and a moody, intense look. That first shoot pushed me out of my comfort zone, but it also lit a spark that shaped a whole new direction for my business. From that day forward, Narrative Imagery has become known for Dramatic Sports Portraits—photography that goes beyond standard team pictures and makes young athletes look and feel like pros.

This year, everything came full circle when I was invited to photograph the 5th Grade Bulldogs football team in Brighton, Colorado. We had big plans for an outdoor shoot at the Watertower Fields, but Colorado weather had other ideas. With storms surrounding the area, I didn’t want the athletes—or their parents—stuck in the rain, so we made a last-minute pivot and moved into their equipment shed. Honestly, it couldn’t have worked out better. The backdrop gave the images a gritty, authentic vibe that matched the Bulldogs’ tough energy.

Over the course of about two hours, 22 athletes came through for individual portraits. Each player brought their own swagger—some serious, some smiling, some showing off their game faces. With smoke effects, dramatic lighting, and creative posing, we captured images that highlighted their love for the game and their team spirit. Even though these were 5th graders, they carried themselves like seasoned athletes ready for Friday night lights.

What I loved most about this session was the excitement from both the kids and their parents. Media Day wasn’t just about photos; it became an event. Teammates cheered each other on, parents watched proudly, and everyone left talking about how cool the final images were going to be.

Sessions like this are exactly why I’ve continued to grow Narrative Imagery’s sports photography in Colorado. Whether it’s football, lacrosse, cheer, or soccer, my goal is to give athletes portraits that capture their passion, their personality, and the hard work they put into their sport.

If your team in Brighton, Denver, or anywhere in Colorado is ready for a Media Day that goes beyond ordinary sports photos, let’s talk. Contact Narrative Imagery to schedule your Dramatic Sports Portraits and give your athletes images they’ll never forget.