Phoenix Suns guard Josh Okogie has long been recognized for his defensive tenacity and high-octane energy on the basketball court. However, this summer, Okogie has found a new passion off the hardwood: photography. With an unyielding drive to excel, both in sports and his new hobby, Okogie has been diving headfirst into the world of photography, capturing the essence of life through his lens.
Okogie's interest in photography took flight during a vacation to Milan, Italy, amid the vibrant atmosphere of Fashion Week. Inspired by a friend's encouragement, Okogie purchased a Sony a7 III camera and started to explore the art of capturing moments. "I'm still not good. I'll say 90-95% of my pictures are BS, but I feel like I've gotten better—slightly—each day I've taken pictures," Okogie candidly admitted. Despite his humble assessment of his skills, his determination to improve is unmistakable.
Learning the Ropes
Much like on the court, Okogie's approach to photography is methodical and enthusiastic. "I've kind of figured out how the camera works, how to do the settings, how to do the white balance and all that. So, it's been pretty cool," he explained. His curiosity and willingness to learn exemplify the same qualities that have made him a standout athlete.
This summer, Okogie turned his lens to the dynamic world of live basketball. He tested his skills shooting at events such as the NBA Creator Cup celebrity game, and even during high-octane summer league games including the clash between the Los Angeles Lakers and Houston Rockets, and his own Phoenix Suns versus the Golden State Warriors. However, the transition from playing basketball to photographing it has not been without its challenges. "It's very fast. Every time somebody dunks, by the time I take a picture, he's already done finished the dunk and he's already playing defense," Okogie stated, highlighting the speed and unpredictability of live sports photography.
Mastering the Craft
Okogie is aware of the steep learning curve he faces. "I feel like the biggest improvement I have to make is adjusting to the speed of the game and not only anticipating, but also about being at the right angle to get the best picture," he noted. His self-awareness and focus on continual progress mirror his disciplined approach on the basketball court.
Two photographers who have profoundly influenced Okogie are David Sherman of the Minnesota Timberwolves and Barry Gossage of Phoenix. "That's my guy. He films the Wolves and he also films a lot of other NBA-sanctioned events. So I've always paid close attention to David," Okogie shared. The respect he holds for these seasoned professionals motivates him to enhance his own craft.
Capturing Emotion
For Okogie, photography is more than just taking pictures; it’s about capturing the raw emotion behind each moment. "Because you want the picture to replicate the feeling of the play for those who weren't there," he articulated. This philosophy drives his ambition to connect with the audience on a deeper level, crystallizing memories into images that convey the intensity and excitement of the game.
Looking ahead, Okogie plans to refine his skills further by shooting WNBA games during the offseason. This new avenue will provide additional opportunities to hone his eye for detail and perfect his technique.
On Court and Off
In addition to his burgeoning photography career, Okogie’s commitment to the Phoenix Suns remains steadfast. Recently signing a two-year, $16 million extension, Okogie is focused on delivering energy and effort on both sides of the floor. "My mentality is just to go out there and just try to give this team the energy that they need on both sides of the floor," he emphasized. His role as a catalyst for the team’s dynamism is something he cherishes and strives to fulfill. "We have a lot of talent on this team, but I want to be the battery of this team, if that makes sense. The motor of this team, to get people going, get people excited to play, get people moving," Okogie added.
Discussing his objectives with new Suns coach Mike Budenholzer, Okogie is optimistic about the team’s prospects in a competitive Western Conference. "The West is going to be really competitive next year. I feel like we can be as good as we want to be. I feel like our ceiling is as high as we make it. I'm excited. I feel like if we get a good training camp and we start to jell, the sky's the limit for us," he remarked. His outlook encapsulates a blend of ambition and realism, reflective of his journey in both basketball and photography.
As Josh Okogie navigates his dual passions, his drive and enthusiasm are evident. Whether he’s capturing a game-winning shot with his camera or making a pivotal play on the court, Okogie continues to evolve, inspiring those around him with every click and every stride.