Neil Leifer
Muhammed Ali- "Get up!"
A Photographer From a Young Age
Neil Leifer is a famous photographer who was raised in New York City. When he was young he would push wheelchairs and aid ticket clerks in order to get free entry into New York Giants games. He would use his free entry pass and camera he got as a gift in order to get access to the field. He would practice taking shots while at the games.
Muhammed Ali
A photographer for Sports Illustrated, Leifer was already well known, but he captured one amazing shot. The picture was of Muhammed Ali yelling "GET UP!" to competitor Sonny Listone, after knocking him out in the first round. The fight, which took place in Lewiston, Maine, was over very quick. The photo is widely considered one of the, if not, the most famous and iconic sporting photo ever taken.
What can be learned?
Neil Leifer is well know for being a risk taker and quick thinker when it comes to photography. He always takes action shots and goes purely off of his instinct and reflexes. It shows that in order to take a monumental photograph it doesn't always have to be stage or set up prior. He practiced taking photos for a long time. Originally he wasn't very good. It just shows that practice makes perfect.
My Opinion
I really like this portrait. I have seen it before, but had not known anything about who took the photo. I think it is unique because the photo was taken at the perfect moment and even though it was taken quick it still looks crisp and was framed well. It accurately captures the intensity of the moment and you can almost hear Ali yelling at Listone. It shows how aggressive and amazing of a boxer Muhammed Ali was, even for being a kind person outside of the sport.