Tech
Jun 16, 20261
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Photographer Mark Terrill Captures Overhead Goal Shot at World Cup 2026 New Zealand vs Iran
AP photographer Mark J. Terrill captured an overhead photograph of New Zealand's Elijah Just scoring against Iran at World Cup 2026 using remotely triggered cameras positioned throughout Los Angeles Stadium. The innovative technique allowed Terrill to provide viewers with a unique perspective of the goal-scoring moment.
Quick Facts
Who
Mark J. Terrill
What
Photographer captured overhead goal shot using remote cameras
When
2026-06-16
Where
Los Angeles Stadium
- Photographer captured overhead goal shot using remote cameras
- New Zealand player scored against Iran
- Six remote cameras placed in stadium catwalk
- Radio transceivers triggered cameras from pitch position
- Mark J. Terrill
Associated Press photographer Mark J. Terrill captured an extraordinary overhead photograph of New Zealand player Elijah Just scoring against Iran during a World Cup 2026 match at Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California. The image represents a distinctive approach to sports photography, using remotely triggered cameras positioned in locations where a photographer could not physically be present.
Terrill, who has worked as a photographer for 44 years and joined the AP full-time in 1997, employed six remote cameras strategically placed throughout the stadium's catwalk—one behind each goal and additional cameras positioned to capture side angles of the goal areas. All six cameras were triggered by radio transceivers operated from his position on the pitch, allowing him to capture multiple perspectives simultaneously.
The resulting photograph exemplifies professional sports photography, incorporating several key elements: a clear view of the scoring player, the goalkeeper's position relative to the ball, defending players' reactions, and an uncluttered background. Terrill explained that one of a photographer's primary objectives is to produce images that competitors do not have and that audiences have not previously seen, a goal he achieved through this innovative overhead perspective of the goal-scoring moment.
Why This Matters
This innovative overhead photography technique demonstrates how modern sports journalism uses advanced technology to capture moments from perspectives previously impossible for human photographers. For readers and sports fans, it shows how professional media organizations push creative boundaries to deliver unprecedented visual storytelling, while also illustrating the technical expertise required in contemporary sports photography. The achievement highlights the value of experience—Terrill's 44-year career enabled this sophisticated remote-camera orchestration at a major global sporting event.
Timeline & Sources
Jan 1, 1982
WireMark J. Terrill began his photography career at age 16
Jan 1, 1997
WireTerrill joined Associated Press full-time
Jun 16, 2026
WireTerrill captured overhead photograph of New Zealand's Elijah Just scoring goal against Iran at World Cup 2026