The enthusiasm and passion with which soccer is played in Africa are inevitably transferred to the onlooker. Internationally successful fashion and advertising photographer Thomas Hoeffgen (*1968 in Kiel) experienced the same thing when he flew to Nigeria in 1999 for a story on soccer. He became so interested in the subject that he spent the next several years taking unusual, direct photographs of players and spectators in Nigeria, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Malawi, and South Africa. Hoeffgen’s images take us from the continent’s typical improvised sandlots with their two wooden posts forming a makeshift goal to the concrete stadiums in the city with their floodlights and grandstands. Remarkably honest photographs, since no one takes notice of the man behind the camera—the only thing that counts here is the game. Fore more information on Hoeffgen’s Book, African Arenas, click here.
Awesome shots… the fields, the players. I especially like the player in the “locker room” getting dressed — an amazing portrait with light, color, emotion. Great series.
Nice collection. Contrast with the green fields shown on TV is enormous.
Such a good selection of photos. I love the aerial photos combined with shots that connect you with the players
These photographs are beautiful to look at and so descriptive!
Like Robert said, the contrast between these soccer photo’s and the photo’s we saw the past month, is amazing, but wonderful.
Great selection of photo’s great documentary style – tells a story for sure.