There are many factors that govern why certain players get more photos than others.  Due to multiple games occurring simultaneously and the processing time required to prepare the photos, there is some time limit on almost every game we photograph.  During that time we have no control over how and when a coach decides to use certain players.  Some players have a knack for getting closer to action than others.  Every venue is different in terms of the vantage points from which we can shoot, so some players may end up in a position that keeps them further away from the camera locations.  We try to get everyone; some attempts are more successful than others.

There are a few guidelines you can follow to ensure you get photos.  If you know beforehand that you're interested in purchasing photos, check in with us prior to a game.  We don't take paid-upfront reservations, but we do take requests and we manage to fulfill more than 95% of them.  Also, at some events, we get to photograph each team more than once.  Check for photos after the first game, and if we haven't gotten enough good shots, let us know and we'll look for your player at the next game.  Don't wait until you're on your way out the door to tell us we missed.  At a large tournament, we may see over 3,000 athletes.  We can't keep track of all of them without your help.

While many people don't like the tone of the answer, this is simply nobody's business but mine.  Frankly, I don't like the tone of people who would be so crass as to ask a question like this with the air of arrogance that says I owe them something with little or no reciprocation; attempt to make me feel guilty because we'd otherwise be wasting the materials; or worst of all treat us like we're so cash-strapped that we should gratefully accept their lowball offers as if it will make or break our outing.  "Your choice, dude. Sell it for $5 or don't sell it at all."  This is the ultimate insult!

We try to waste as little as possible and we will use some unsold prints as samples, but the fact remains that we must occasionally dispose of unsold prints.  We pride ourselves on customer service, but service does not necessarily extend to giving away (or steeply discounting) work product.  That's our prerogative.  If the photo is good enough to want it, we deserve to be fairly compensated for our efforts.  Amen!