Rookie AP photographer Stephanie Scarbrough joined the company in June, shortly after completing a 10-month photojournalism internship in Washington, D.C. Currently based in Baltimore, Scarbrough covers everything from sports and daily life to breaking news and presidential happenings.
The Baltimore Orioles had been plagued by injuries and a hitting slump, losing three games in a row before facing the San Francisco Giants on Thursday, Sept. 19. The game was tied 3-all in the top of the ninth inning after the San Francisco Giants’ Casey Schmitt hit an RBI single. With Orioles designated hitter Anthony Santander at the plate and two outs, tension filled the ballpark as he fell behind 0-2 against Giants reliever Ryan Walker.
After a nail-biting moment, Santander connected with a slider and hit a home run, securing a win for Baltimore and ending their losing streak. The cheers from the stands filled the air as Santander rounded the bases and was greeted with celebrations from his teammates in the dugout.
Stephanie Scarbrough captured this moment from high above the action at Oriole Park at Camden Yards with her Sony A9 III and a 400mm lens. She strategically positioned herself in the upper deck to take advantage of the afternoon light and long shadows cast on the field. By cropping the image tightly to focus on the key elements and eliminating distractions, Scarbrough created a compelling composition that emphasizes the celebration unfolding in the corners of the frame.
The photo’s unusual composition, with the action placed in the corners and an empty center, draws the viewer’s eye towards Santander and his teammates. The clean background of the grass field adds to the clarity of the moment captured by Scarbrough. The image successfully conveys the emotion and energy of the Orioles’ victory celebration.
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