Stories with Tag lens

• Ref Butts and Slam Dunks: What It's Like Photographing an NBA Game

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  Posted: 2025-04-18 19:53:41

  Verbose tl;dr

  Photographing an NBA game is a fast-paced, challenging, and rewarding experience. It requires specialized equipment, including long lenses and fast cameras capable of freezing action, and demands quick reflexes to capture fleeting moments like dunks and emotional reactions. Positioning is key, with photographers vying for the best angles while navigating tight spaces and avoiding obstructions like referees. Beyond the technical aspects, the article highlights the unique atmosphere of a live game, the camaraderie amongst photographers, and the thrill of capturing iconic images that tell the story of the game. It's a demanding job, requiring both physical and mental stamina, but offers the opportunity to witness and document incredible athleticism at the highest level.

  This PetaPixel article provides an engaging and in-depth exploration of the multifaceted experience of being an NBA photographer, specifically focusing on the unique challenges and rewards encountered by Mark Blinch, a seasoned sports photographer for Getty Images. Blinch, a veteran of the field, offers a privileged glimpse behind the scenes of professional basketball photography, detailing the intricate logistics, demanding physical requirements, and the constant pursuit of capturing those ephemeral, iconic moments that define the sport.

  The narrative commences by highlighting the sheer physicality of the job, describing how photographers must navigate a crowded courtside environment, jostling for position amongst their peers while simultaneously anticipating player movements and the trajectory of the ball. This demanding dance requires not only quick reflexes and spatial awareness but also a keen understanding of the game itself, allowing them to predict key plays and position themselves accordingly. Blinch elaborates on the need for constant vigilance, as split-second decisions determine whether a shot is captured or missed, often with no opportunity for a second attempt.

  Furthermore, the article delves into the technical intricacies of capturing high-quality images in the challenging lighting conditions of an NBA arena. Blinch discusses the specialized equipment utilized, including high-performance cameras and telephoto lenses, necessary to freeze the rapid action and capture the emotion etched on players' faces. He also emphasizes the importance of adapting to the varying light levels and color temperatures present in different arenas, a constant calibration process that ensures consistent image quality. Beyond the technical aspects, the article touches upon the artistic considerations of sports photography, such as framing, composition, and the ability to convey the narrative of the game through still images.

  Blinch also provides insights into the less glamorous realities of the profession, including the uncomfortable proximity to referees' posteriors and the occasional, unavoidable contact with errant basketballs or even perspiring players. These occupational hazards are presented not as complaints, but rather as humorous anecdotes that add a layer of authenticity to the narrative. The piece concludes by emphasizing the immense satisfaction derived from successfully capturing those defining moments of athleticism and emotion, the culmination of meticulous preparation, technical expertise, and unwavering dedication to the craft of sports photography. Ultimately, the article paints a vivid portrait of a profession that demands both physical and mental acuity, a constant striving for excellence in the face of challenging circumstances, and the enduring passion to immortalize the captivating spectacle of professional basketball.

  • NBA
  • photography
  • sports photography
  • basketball
  • Photojournalism
  • Behind the Scenes
  • professional sports
  • sports
  • game day
  • NBA game
  • action photography
  • Canon
  • camera gear
  • lens
  • telephoto lens

  Summary of Comments ( 2 )
  https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43731335

  Verbose tl;dr

  Several commenters on Hacker News discussed the intense, fast-paced nature of NBA game photography, echoing the original article's points about needing specialized equipment and quick reflexes. Some highlighted the physical demands and cramped working conditions, with one user mentioning the surprising discomfort of kneeling for extended periods. The discussion also touched upon the evolving technology used, including remote cameras and the significant role of post-processing in creating the final images. A few users expressed interest in the business side, questioning the ownership of the photographers' work and how image licensing operates within the NBA. Finally, there's a brief exchange about the challenges and rewards of photographing other fast-paced sports like hockey.

  The Hacker News post titled "Ref Butts and Slam Dunks: What It's Like Photographing an NBA Game" has a modest number of comments, focusing primarily on the technical and logistical challenges of sports photography, specifically within the NBA. No one delves deeply into the "ref butts" aspect mentioned in the title, suggesting it was likely just a catchy hook.

  One commenter highlights the difficulty of capturing fast-paced action, mentioning the need for extremely fast autofocus and high frame rates to freeze moments like a slam dunk. They also discuss the challenge of dealing with varying lighting conditions in arenas and the importance of having robust, professional-grade equipment. This comment provides a practical perspective on the technical skill required for this type of photography.

  Another comment chain discusses the highly competitive nature of securing media credentials for NBA games. Commenters point out that these positions are often held by established professionals and publications, making it difficult for newcomers to break into the field. This contributes to a broader discussion about access and the challenges faced by independent photographers.

  One user reflects on the evolution of sports photography technology, recalling the days of film and the limitations it imposed. They contrast this with the capabilities of modern digital cameras, emphasizing the significant advancements that have made capturing high-quality action shots much easier and more efficient.

  A couple of comments touch on the business aspect, mentioning the potential revenue streams for sports photographers, including selling images to news outlets or directly to players. However, this topic isn't explored in great detail.

  Overall, the comments offer a glimpse into the world of professional sports photography, highlighting the technical expertise, competitive landscape, and evolving technology involved in capturing iconic sporting moments. While the discussion doesn't reach a high volume, the existing comments offer valuable insights for those interested in the field.

• Surgery implants tooth material in eye as scaffolding for lens

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  Posted: 2025-02-28 04:26:52

  Verbose tl;dr

  A novel surgical technique, performed for the first time in Canada, uses a patient's own tooth as scaffolding to rebuild a damaged eye. The procedure, called modified osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis (MOOKP), involves shaping a canine tooth and a small piece of jawbone into a support structure for an artificial lens implant. This structure is then implanted under the skin of the cheek for several months to allow it to grow new blood vessels. Finally, the tooth-bone structure, with the integrated lens, is transplanted into the eye, restoring vision for patients with severely damaged corneas where traditional corneal transplants aren't feasible. This procedure offers hope for people with limited treatment options for regaining their sight.

  In a groundbreaking and remarkably innovative surgical procedure performed at the University of Ottawa Eye Institute, a Canadian woman, Mairi Stewart, has received a bio-engineered ocular implant derived from her own tooth. This intricate operation, a Canadian first, offers a potential solution for patients suffering from severe corneal damage and represents a significant advancement in the field of ophthalmology. Ms. Stewart had been experiencing progressive vision loss due to a condition known as bullous keratopathy, a painful and debilitating ailment characterized by the formation of blisters on the cornea, the eye's transparent outer layer. This condition rendered her cornea opaque, effectively obstructing light from reaching her retina and causing significant impairment to her sight.

  Traditional treatments for bullous keratopathy, such as corneal transplants, often prove unsuccessful in cases as severe as Ms. Stewart's. The innovative procedure, known as modified osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis (MOOKP), utilizes a patient's own tooth and surrounding bone as a biological scaffold to support an artificial lens. In a multi-stage operation, a portion of the patient's canine tooth, along with a segment of the surrounding jawbone, is meticulously extracted and shaped into a biocompatible platform. A customized artificial lens is then fitted into this natural pedestal, creating a functional visual prosthetic. This biological implant, derived from the patient's own tissue, significantly reduces the risk of rejection that can often complicate traditional corneal transplants.

  After a healing period of several months, during which blood vessels grow into the tooth-bone complex, this meticulously crafted bio-prosthesis is surgically implanted into the patient's eye, effectively replacing the damaged cornea. The innovative aspect of utilizing a patient's own dental material lies in its inherent biocompatibility, minimizing the risk of immune rejection. This complex procedure also offers improved structural stability compared to synthetic materials, contributing to a higher success rate in restoring functional vision. For Ms. Stewart, the procedure has been life-altering, providing her with renewed hope and the potential to regain a substantial degree of her lost vision. While the recovery process is ongoing, the initial results are promising, showcasing the potential of this innovative technique to transform the lives of individuals suffering from severe corneal damage. This Canadian medical breakthrough stands as a testament to the transformative potential of bio-engineering and its application in addressing complex medical challenges, paving the way for further advancements in vision restoration.

  • ophthalmology
  • surgery
  • eye surgery
  • lens
  • implant
  • tooth material
  • biomaterial
  • dental material
  • medical innovation
  • Healthcare
  • Regenerative Medicine
  • vision restoration
  • cornea
  • osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis
  • OOKP

  Summary of Comments ( 38 )
  https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43201682

  Verbose tl;dr

  Hacker News users discuss the surprising case of a tooth implanted in a patient's eye to support a new lens. Several commenters express fascination with the ingenuity and adaptability of the human body, highlighting the unusual yet seemingly successful application of dental material in ophthalmology. Some question the long-term viability and potential complications of this procedure, while others ponder why a synthetic material wasn't used instead. A few users share personal anecdotes of similarly innovative medical procedures, demonstrating the resourcefulness of surgeons in unique situations. The overall sentiment is one of cautious optimism and amazement at the possibilities of medical science.

  The Hacker News post discussing the CBC article about a tooth being used in eye surgery to support a new lens has generated a number of comments, largely focusing on the fascinating and somewhat unsettling nature of the procedure.

  Several commenters express amazement at the ingenuity and adaptability of the human body, highlighting the unexpected ways in which different tissues and organs can be utilized for repair. The idea that a tooth, typically associated with chewing, can be repurposed to support vision is seen as a testament to the remarkable flexibility of biological systems.

  Some comments delve into the specific details of the procedure, questioning the rationale behind using a tooth and wondering about alternative materials. They discuss the potential benefits of using a patient's own tissue to minimize the risk of rejection, while also acknowledging the potential challenges of sourcing and shaping suitable autologous materials. The choice of a tooth is questioned, with some speculating about the reasons why it might be preferred over other options, such as bone grafts.

  A recurring theme is the "ick" factor associated with the procedure. Many commenters admit to finding the idea of a tooth in an eye somewhat disturbing, despite understanding the medical benefits. This visceral reaction is discussed in the context of the broader human tendency to be squeamish about certain medical procedures, even when they are life-improving.

  A few commenters share personal anecdotes about similar procedures or experiences with eye surgery, adding a personal dimension to the discussion. These stories provide further context and illustrate the diverse range of medical interventions available.

  There's a brief discussion about the terminology used in the article, with some commenters pointing out the technically incorrect usage of "bone" to describe the tooth material. This highlights the importance of accurate reporting in medical contexts.

  Finally, some comments express admiration for the medical professionals who developed and performed the procedure, acknowledging the skill and innovation required to successfully implement such a complex and unconventional treatment.