Simon Stacpoole, a veteran British sports photographer, still finds it unbelievable that he gets paid to witness some of the world’s biggest sporting events from prime positions, even after two decades in the field. Stacpoole’s journey from a keen teenage photographer to a seasoned professional who has covered four FIFA World Cup finals reveals the dedication, passion and emotional depth behind the lens of sports photography. His story offers a rare, human‑sized look at the life of someone capturing history in motion, moment by moment.
A Career Defined by Passion and Proximity to History
For Simon Stacpoole, photography and sport were natural companions from the start. Growing up in a sporting family in Nantwich, Cheshire, he discovered his talent for photography while still at school. That early passion led him to pursue a dedicated degree in photography, and eventually to a freelance career with a sports photography agency.
Today, Stacpoole covers around four football matches a week, a physical and emotional commitment that keeps him constantly on the move. “It’s ridiculous at times when you’re sitting there with the best seats in the house at some of the biggest sports events in the world and you’re being paid to be there,” he said, reflecting on the surreal nature of his job.
His experience includes working at four FIFA World Cup finals, a rare achievement that places him among the ranks of photographers who have seen football history unfold up close. For Stacpoole, one of his favorite memories came during Qatar 2022, when Argentina lifted the trophy and Lionel Messi was hoisted on fans’ shoulders in celebration. “It was a sight to behold,” he said, describing the moment in vivid terms.
Behind the Lens: The Highs of Capturing Great Moments
Stacpoole’s portfolio is defined by its proximity to emotion‑charged sporting moments. Being just feet from Messi holding the World Cup or positioned for key shots at major finals requires anticipation, instinct, and courage. Experienced sports photographers know that capturing the perfect frame is not just about high‑end gear, but about timing and judgement.
His most nerve‑racking assignment came at the 2012 London Olympics, where emotions were already running high for him personally. On the night of the men’s 100‑metre final, Stacpoole had recently lost his father but knew he needed to capture sprint legend Usain Bolt as he crossed the line. “I’ve got 9.5 seconds to get my act together,” he recalled, highlighting how split‑second timing defines both the sports and photography world.
These iconic opportunities also reflect the central role sports photography plays in how fans remember major sporting achievements. Globally recognised events like the World Sports Photography Awards showcase work that captures not just action, but the heartbeat of sport itself. The 2026 awards, featuring winners from 24 categories and partnerships with major brands, underline the continuing importance of visual storytelling in sport.
The Daily Grind: Sacrifice Behind the Glamour
Despite the glamour often associated with major sporting events, Stacpoole is clear about the challenges that come with a life behind the camera. Long hours on the road, frequent travel, time away from family and missed social events are all part of the job, realities that many fans might not imagine when they see finished images in print or online.
He described situations where he returned from a challenging assignment soaked from rain, exhausted after a poor‑performing match, and still faced long drives home. “You could have a really bad game where you’ve had five goals up the wrong end of the pitch, I’m soaking wet, the motorway’s closed on the way home,” he said, recounting moments that test even the most seasoned professionals.
There are also camaraderie and respect among photographers at major events. While competition for the best shot can get intense — sometimes requiring a photographer to “sharpen your elbows a bit” — professionals understand they are all there for the same reason: to tell the story of sport through powerful images.
The Role of Sports Photography in the Modern Media Landscape
From local stadiums to global finals, sports photographers are the unseen witnesses to history. Their work shapes how fans around the world experience the emotion of sport, especially in moments of triumph or heartbreak. Legendary photographers like Peter Robinson, who covered more than 13 World Cups and 10 Olympics over a long career, show the enduring legacy of sports photography in global culture.
In an era where media is consumed instantly and images travel across continents in seconds, the impact of powerful sports photos has never been greater. These images not only document the present, but also become part of the collective memory of iconic athletes and moments. Awards like the World Sports Photography Awards underline the craftsmanship and storytelling that goes into every shot.
The Human Side of the Lens
Simon Stacpoole’s story resonates because it blends passion with perseverance. His reflection that being paid to witness greatness feels almost too good to be true speaks to the rare position photographers hold in the sports world. It is a role that demands both artistic sensitivity and physical stamina, and rewards those who can capture the heartbeat of competition.
Stacpoole’s journey reminds us that sports photography is much more than snapping action. It is about telling stories that matter, preserving moments that inspire, and facing challenges that few outside the profession will ever see. For fans and budding photographers alike, his experience offers both insight and inspiration.
