The Art of Capturing Strength: Women in Sports Photography

Sports photography remains a male-dominated field despite progress in gender equality across many industries. Recent data shows that over 62 percent of sports photographers are men. This disparity not only limits opportunities for women but also affects how stories of athletes are told. When the majority of photographers share the same perspective, the resulting narratives can lack diversity and fail to fully represent the athletes they cover.

The reasons for this underrepresentation are complex. Gender bias in hiring, lack of mentorship, and limited visibility of women already in the field all contribute to the imbalance. The demands of sports photography — including irregular hours, physical stamina, and travel — can also deter some women, particularly when workplaces fail to create supportive and equitable conditions. Changing these systemic issues is essential for creating a more inclusive and representative profession.

Why Women in Sports Photography Matter

When women take their place behind the lens, they bring new perspectives and insights that enrich the field. Women in sports photography often approach their work with an awareness of what it feels like to be underrepresented. This can result in more nuanced and inclusive storytelling, where athletes are captured not just as performers but as individuals with unique struggles and triumphs.

Including more women in sports photography is also critical for ensuring that female athletes are documented with respect and authenticity. Too often, images of women in sports focus on appearances rather than achievements. Women photographers are well-positioned to challenge this narrative by highlighting the strength, focus, and athleticism of their subjects. “More and more women are booking sports-inspired photo shoots to express their confidence and active lifestyle,” says a Miami photographer who occasionally captures such sessions. 

Famous Women in Sports Photography Today

Despite the male dominance in sports photography, several modern women are making waves — both literally and figuratively — behind the lens. Jessy Braidwood captures daring avalanches and snowy vistas for winter sports, showcasing the risk and beauty of the terrain. Laura Szanto brings the power of the ocean to life through surf photography, highlighting the balance between athlete and nature. Erin Hogue focuses on the raw energy of BMX and cycling, creating images that convey speed and grit. Abby Cooper documents high-octane moments in alpine skiing, and Zoya Lynch adds a fresh perspective to skateboarding and BMX, using unconventional angles and motion-driven storytelling.

Beyond these rising stars, there are internationally recognized talents shaping the narrative. Camilla Rutherford (formerly Stoddart) is celebrated for her adventure-sport photography in extreme environments, earning accolades like Red Bull Illume and New Zealand Geographic Photographer of the Year. Joni Sternbach offers a more reflective take on athleticism, using tintype portraits to explore the spirit of female surfers. Their success stories show that women can and do excel in sports photography, and their contributions inspire others to follow.

The Value Women Bring to Sports Imagery

Women photographers often have a unique ability to connect with female athletes, who may feel more at ease being documented by someone who understands their experiences. This can lead to more authentic, candid images that resonate with audiences. Diversity behind the lens also allows for more creative approaches and fresh ideas that help sports photography evolve as an art form.

Furthermore, including more women in this profession sends a powerful message to young photographers and athletes alike — that sports are for everyone, and so is the storytelling around them. When women are empowered to capture strength through their lenses, they help create a more balanced and inspiring visual record of sports history.

How to Start a Career in Sports Photography 

Are you wondering how to become a sports photographer? The first step is building a solid portfolio. Practice shooting local games, school competitions, or even sports‑themed portraits to develop your technical skills and style. Many photographers recommend starting with accessible sports where you can get close to the action and experiment with different angles and lighting.

Networking is also essential. Seek out mentorships, join photography associations, and attend events where you can meet others in the industry. Don’t hesitate to reach out to editors, agencies, and other photographers — many are willing to give feedback and advice. It’s equally important to understand the physical and logistical demands of the job and prepare accordingly. With dedication and support, more women can find their place in sports photography and contribute to a more inclusive narrative of athletic achievement.

What the Future Holds for Women in Sports Photography

There are encouraging signs that change is possible. Organizations, newsrooms, and agencies are increasingly aware of the need for diversity and are actively working to hire and promote more women. Mentorship programs and networking opportunities specifically for women in sports media are helping to bridge the gap and provide support to those entering the field.

Technology and social media have also lowered barriers to entry, enabling more women to showcase their talent and build audiences independently. These shifts suggest that the future may hold more opportunities for women to succeed and lead in sports photography. Continued advocacy and intentional efforts will be crucial to maintaining this momentum and ensuring that women’s perspectives remain an integral part of the industry.

Strength Behind the Lens

Women in sports photography play a vital role in shaping how athletes and competitions are remembered. Their contributions enrich the field, promote more inclusive representation, and inspire the next generation of photographers.

By addressing the barriers that still exist and supporting women already in the profession, the industry can move closer to a future where every story is told with authenticity and respect. Improving gender representation in sports photography is not only about fairness but also about creating a richer and more complete narrative of athletic achievement.