Entries have closed for the 2025 World Sports Photography Awards. This is the second year I have entered the awards and has already given me some insights to see some of the best sports photos and photographers in the world! Below is a list of my ten entries, the title I gave each photo and the story behind it.

Taken in February, I was let up into the catwalk at Cable Dahmer Arena for a Kansas City Mavericks game. I love this perspective from above the action, an unique angle you don’t get to see often.

Settings:
1/1250
f/4
4000 ISO
154mm

In The Huddle \\ Parker Johnson - Sporting Kansas City/MLS

Seeing this shot from another soccer photographer, I wanted to make my version of it. Renting a 10-20mm lens gave me that opportunity.

Settings:
1/1000
f/4
100 ISO
10mm

Are You Not Entertained? \\ Parker Johnson

A small slot in the sponsorship boards gave this shot life. I noticed the spot early in the game and wanted to try it out. Safe to say it paid off.

Settings:
1/1600
f/2.8
800 ISO
177mm

Cincinnati made an early exit after a loss to Arizona State in the Big 12 Championship. I noticed the emotion on the bench and saw not reason not to Tell A Story.

Settings:
1/1000
f/2.8
1600 ISO
200mm

The same motion coming from the CU coach and CU player, making a play gave great direction to the image, made it a no brainer to add to the submission.

Settings:
1/1000
f/2.8
1250 ISO
200mm

Sometimes the outside seat provides shots no one else can get. Shooting right down the line gives a nice look.

Settings:
1/1000
f/2.8
2000 ISO
200mm

A last-second addition to the entries. I love how all the players and making different faces all at different spots in the air. Show the excitement of High School sports.

Settings:
1/1000
f/2.8
320 ISO
24mm

Roar of the Rivalry \\ Parker Johnson - Sporting Kansas City/MLS

Win #1 in the 2025 season over cross-state rivals, with a new manager. Same 10-20mm lens used for “In The Huddle” give a super wide perspective to show the confetti, stadium and excitement.

Settings:
1/500
f/4
2000 ISO
10mm

After winning the 2025 Big 12 Championship, first-round draft pick Hailey Van Lith poses with the trophy. A lot great shots to select from from this game but this one took the cake.

Settings:
1/640
f/2.8
800 ISO
24mm

I had seen this shot before, so I wanted to give it a shot. I didn’t realize I had gotten it until i was going through the photos from the game. Safe to say I got what I was looking for.

Settings:
1/800
f/11
200 ISO
70mm

Looking forward to making more potentially award-winning photos in 2026 and beyond!

-Parker Johnson

My WSPA 2025 Entries

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