Matthew Lofthouse

Matthew lofthouse is a freelance sports photographer photographing for Cardiff city F.C and a full time university student studying photojournalism

How did you first get into sports photography? I used to play Rugby Union and I received a leg injury that put me on the sidelines for a few months. I decided to take some photos of my teammates whilst I was injured and I became a fan of sports photography.
Was it hard to get into the industry? Not really, the hardest part was getting some basic equipment when I was young and I had nothing. Once I had it I shot as much as I could whether that be sports or not and I developed an online presence. Then applying for accreditation at events was simple and successful once I was at university thanks to an already well varied portfolio.
How long have you been working/volunteering as a sports photographer? For nearly four years now, it all started when I was studying BTEC Photography in college and I shot the rugby photography when I was injured. I’ve gone up the ladder ever since and my university tuition has helped me improve to a point where I feel confident at any sports event with my camera.Did you need any qualifications to get into the industry? I do not think you do, I think a strong portfolio and a strong appetite is what it takes to become a sports photographer but a qualification helps. I’m glad I’m studying Photojournalism as it has allowed me to test out new skills and my lecturer give me feedback and what I need to work on.What do you enjoy the most about sports photography? There’s a little buzz you feel inside when you capture a key moment on camera. Like the reaction on the face of player after a winning point in badminton or a late winner at a football match.Would you say you know everything about sports photography, or would you say you still learn on the job? You learn how to master the action side of things but portraiture and storytelling is something I need to work on and I feel like this has to be practised and mastered on the side.
What tips would you give somebody wanting to become a sports photographer? Do plenty of research before shooting for the first time and learn how to use manual camera settings. Look at lots of pro’s work for inspiration you will get lots of ideas and as you improve it’s good being able to think “I know how they shot that” when you look at photos by professional sports photographers.
What has been your favourite picture you have taken whilst being a sports photographer and why? (Please include this picture in the email, or send over to me on Instagram) I was lucky enough to be at the Cardiff City match last season when they won promotion to the Premier League. During the pitch invasion that followed I rushed into the middle of the invasion so I could get some photos. I noticed the club owner Vincent Tan was lifted amongst the crowd so I carefully got close to him. My photo of Tan smiling and looking at my camera is my favourite sports photograph. Although it’s not a sports moment per se I believe it still fits into the category of sports photography and it was thrilling to be there taking it. (photo attached)
What has been your favourite match you have photographed and why? My favourite match was Manchester City’s 5-0 win at Cardiff City earlier this season. Although I have a soft spot for Cardiff City I grew up as a Man City fan and to photograph them was just a dream come true. (photo attached)
Lastly!! …. I know you’re a university student, how did you gain access to photograph at Cardiff City F.C. because of this? A friend from university who had gained access as a writer suggested I inquire about doing some photography there. I had done some Wales Women’s football internationals, a Swansea City game and some Badminton Wales events so I sent these along with an enquiry and the club invited me down for a chat. Next minute I had a placement at Cardiff, amazing for me as a first-year student at the time.