As an Arkansas photographer, some moments stand out as career highlights, forever etched in the memories of Razorback fans. One of those came in 2003, when I captured quarterback Matt Jones during the legendary Arkansas vs. Texas rivalry game. The stadium atmosphere was electric, the stakes were high, and my photography from that game went on to become one of the most talked-about images of my career.
In that decisive moment, I captured a photograph that would go on to spark conversation and even a bit of controversy. Shortly after my photo was published in the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, an email began circulating featuring a photoshopped version of the image. Someone had altered Matt’s hand to depict the infamous “Horns Down” gesture, mocking the Texas Longhorns and their “Hook ‘em Horns” sign. This playful twist on my original shot added another layer of intrigue to the moment, showcasing the passion and camaraderie that college football fans share.
Fast forward to a few weeks ago, when I had a surprising encounter while walking through the mall. I stumbled upon a vendor selling merchandise that featured my photo of Matt Jones. What made it even more intriguing was that the image is copyright-protected by the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. It was both flattering and perplexing to see my work being sold without permission, but experiences like this remind me of the importance of protecting photography rights, especially for professional photographers in Arkansas whose work is often shared, reposted or even repurposed without credit.
As a photographer, moments like this serve as a reminder of the complex intersection between art, copyright, and the world of sports.
Reflecting on that iconic game and the years that have passed since, I’m reminded of why I chose to become a professional photographer in Arkansas. From college football to corporate events and editorial work, every assignment is about capturing authentic stories through photography.
