Two 14-hour days of working poolside for the Ohio high school state swim meet produced more images than I’d like to count. We had kids from nearly 20 local schools competing this year, so it made for some hectic shooting. Without our trusty 200mm f1.8 lens this year, I had to resort to direct flash (yeck!) to help with some of the exposures. The tiny pool deck didn’t provide many shooting positions either.

Despite the limitations, I was firmly in my element at the pool. Since I grew up as a swimmer, lifeguard, and coach, I think there are probably still traces of chlorine in my blood. It was an assignment that I specifically requested and one that other photographers thanked me for taking. I had a good time shooting, and I hope that comes through in the photos.