I've been lucky. My career has given me the opportunity to see things the way most people don't get to. I get access to concerts, sporting events, and news events to witness up close and first hand what is happening.
This year's World Series was no different. I was lucky enough to photograph the first two games from the field while shooting for the New York Times. And with my cameras in hand, I talked my way into a giant watch party in downtown Kansas City as thousands watched the Royals win the series to be named the World Champions.
But I am a freelance photographer and sometimes I don't get assigments for big events. Like today. Today was the Royals victory parade and I wasn't assigned to shoot it and I was thrilled to be a civilian with my family and not a journalist. But that meant civilian access. Not what I'm used to.
We arrived early, staked out a spot and waited...and waited and waited. Our view was mainly backs, legs, bottoms and hair. When the parade finaly made its way to us, we were lucky to catch a glimpse of Salvador Perez's black hair. I think I saw the trophy. I think.
Funny thing is, while covering the games, I literally brushed shoulders with the players as they went to and from the dugout but today I was thrilled to catch a 3 second view of a player from 100 feet away.
As I carved out my 2 foot square of asphalt, I made pictures of my less than priveldged view of the action. This is how the rest of the world attends a parade and I can tell you, it's not for the faint of heart.