In an age of high-definition, K-Zone and Ump Cams as highlights can be making the rounds on social media within minutes after the play happened, there is still use for an older form of visual storytelling on ESPN's broadcasts of the College World Series.
Phil Ellsworth set up in the lower level of TD Ameritrade Park last week to take still images of participants. Some, like one he took of Miami (Fla.)'s Willie Abreu and his mother's ring, find their way into the television production. Ellsworth has worked the past six College World Series.
“It’s the small touches and attention to detail that separates a good on-air moment or feature from one that hits a viewer with a memorable emotion,” ESPN coordinating producer Tom McNeeley told Mike Humes. “Phil has an ability to capture a player in a way that strikes you, even if the photo is only on the screen for a moment within a 30-second feature. That’s why we specifically ask for him to be here every year.”
So many of the teams' traditions traditions and unique antics end up on video, but the supplement of the still image can still greatly help tell the story. Watch an example of the integration below.
Read the full story at ESPN Front Row.
