NEW YORK (AP) — Adam Gray is a freelance photojournalist based in New York who has been working for The Associated Press for a couple of years. He’s also worked on assignment for the AP in Chicago, covering the deployment of the National Guard and federal immigration enforcement. This is what he had to say about this extraordinary photo.
Here’s what he had to say about this extraordinary photo.
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Why this photo?
As a Brit, I am a little bit obsessed with the weather, and I’ve always really enjoyed the challenge of making an interesting photo in extreme conditions. Often the worse it is outside, the more likely we would be out documenting. When I received the call from my editor at AP saying they needed pictures of the first big snow of the season, I was straight out the door. As this was New York City’s first snow, it was important to include some recognizable locations to give the photographs context and location. There aren’t many places more iconic than Central Park – it is stunningly beautiful, and it is where snowfall is officially measured in the city.
How I made this photo
The image was taken from a rocky outcrop I’ve known well for many years, giving great views of Gapstow Bridge (pictured) in one direction and the skyline in the other. Getting up there in the snow and ice wasn’t quite so easy but I made it and then waited for groups of tourists to stand in the right places. Using a Sony A9iii and 70-200mm lens I framed the man taking a photograph from the outcrop with those below on the bridge.
Why this photo works
The image works as it combines a beautiful environment with those out enjoying it. For me, it is always important to include the human element. The man taking pictures in the foreground adds depths and layers to the image, making it more interesting than, say, a flat image of the bridge.
For more extraordinary AP photography, click here.