Meet Jeff Moreland, a seasoned sports photographer based in Kentucky, USA. With over 25 years of experience, Jeff has captured dynamic moments across NCAA sports, the NFL, PGA tournaments, and prestigious horse racing events like the Kentucky Derby and Breeders’ Cup. His work has been featured in renowned publications such as Sports Illustrated and ESPN, showcasing his ability to freeze action-packed moments with precision.
His career includes seven years working for Topps Sports Cards and traveling around the NFL, with his images appearing on hundreds of trading cards and packaging. His current clients include NCAA universities and sports trading card companies, and he loves seeing his work published on sports cards because that’s a big part of what sparked his love for photography as a young boy. Jeff also enjoys concert and celebrity photography, including red carpet events at the Kentucky Derby and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ceremonies.
When he’s not covering games he enjoys traveling and attending sporting events with his family.
Kentucky Wildcats guard Rob Dillingham (0) dunks in a game between the Illinois State Redbirds and the Kentucky Wildcats on December 29, 2023, at Rupp Arena in Lexington, KY. (Photo by Jeff Moreland) The image was published on a special edition 2024 NCAA Tournament Bowman basketball card.
Be prepared and know as much as possible about your subject. Being a former athlete helps me anticipate what is likely to happen in a particular situation when shooting sports, which goes a long way toward being in position to get the shot I want.
Rory McIlroy tees off on the fifth hole during the fourth round en route to winning the 2014 PGA Championship at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Ky. (Jeff Moreland)
One of my best friends from childhood became a global pop star when we grew up. I’ve shot some of his concerts over the years, but I’ll never forget the first time I went to one of his shows after he became famous. I was shooting it for a magazine and our hometown newspaper.
My wife and I got to the arena early the day of the show and met with him in the back of the arena before we all went outside to sit on his bus where we could talk. As he swung the arena door open and poked his head out, there were instantly blood-curdling screams from a few hundred young girls waiting to catch a glimpse when and if that door opened.
When the show began, it was surreal to stand in front of the stage shooting photos while more than 20,000 people screamed and cheered for a guy I had grown up with.
That’s something I’ll never forget.
Flightline (4) with Flavien Prat aboard wins in the 2022 Breeder’s Cup Classic at Keeneland in Lexington, KY. (Photo by Jeff Moreland)
Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Damon Payne Jr. (44) and defensive lineman Justin Eboigbe (92) tackle Kentucky Wildcats quarterback Devin Leary (13) in a game between the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Kentucky Wildcats on November 11, 2023, at Kroger Field in Lexington, KY. (Photo by Jeff Moreland)
Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Damon Payne Jr. (44) and defensive lineman Justin Eboigbe (92) tackle Kentucky Wildcats quarterback Devin Leary (13) in a game between the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Kentucky Wildcats on November 11, 2023, at Kroger Field in Lexington, KY. (Photo by Jeff Moreland)
"While Jeff is based in the U.S., his experiences and insights resonate with Canadian photographers navigating the vibrant sports scene across the country. His emphasis on preparation and understanding the game offers valuable lessons for photographers aiming to excel in sports photography in Canada."
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