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Local Photographer Drew Golden: Capturing Action, Memories, and Every Player’s Moment

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Meet the eye behind the Golden Lens

By Johanna Elattar, photo by Drew Golden

Golden Lens Photography, a growing name in local sports photography, captures the highs and lows of high school sports in a way that resonates deeply with parents, athletes, and the community. The face behind this budding enterprise is Drew Golden, a self-taught photographer who has made it his mission to capture the spirit of high school sports with a unique perspective and a personal touch.

Drew’s journey into photography began while he was a high school student. Armed with a simple 35mm camera, he went on a school trip to Denmark and captured images that marked the beginning of his fascination with photography. Over the years, that initial spark grew into a passionate pursuit. Though he has never received formal training, Drew honed his craft through countless hours of practice and experimentation. His work, primarily focused on high school football and other sports, reflects his dedication to both his art and his subjects.

“I don’t imitate anyone,” Drew says with pride. His style is distinct, focused on following the action and using different angles to tell the story of each game. He’s not interested in replicating anyone else’s vision; instead, he relies on his instincts to capture the game as he sees it. Drew’s approach is dynamic and immersive. He often finds himself moving around to follow the action, all the while staying mindful not to obstruct the view or interfere with the game.

One of the unique aspects of Drew’s work is his camera itself. He uses a camera that’s 24 years old, a rarity in the age of digital photography where new technology is constantly emerging. For Drew, though, this older model is a comfortable and reliable choice, and it has served him well for years. He’s mastered its capabilities, allowing him to focus on the art of the photograph rather than worrying about the latest gadget.

“Out of 2,000 pictures, I might use only 20% of them,” Drew explains, reflecting the meticulous nature of his process. Sorting through hundreds of shots after each game, he carefully selects the ones that best capture the essence of the event. His editing process is straightforward but effective: he enhances each photo by cropping, adjusting the lighting, and ensuring that the image isn’t “noisy” — a term he uses to describe pictures that appear grainy or lack clarity.

Some of Drew’s most memorable moments behind the lens have been during championship games. He fondly recalls a high school baseball game last year when he was able to capture the exact moment Hornell won. “It was incredible to be there and to capture that for everyone to remember,” he says. Championship games are always special to him, not just for the thrill of the game but for the opportunity to document moments that will become part of local sports history.

One aspect of Drew’s approach that endears him to the community is his commitment to photographing every player, not just the star athletes. Many photographers gravitate toward the high-profile players, but Drew believes that each athlete deserves to be recognized. “Parents are always grateful,” he says, explaining how much it means to families to see their children captured in action, regardless of their role on the team. By focusing on all players, he ensures that every student has the chance to see themselves in the heart of the game, a memory they’ll cherish for years to come.

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Golden Lens Photography, which Drew officially launched in September 2023, started as a simple venture, but has quickly grown. He began by investing in portable studio equipment, building a portfolio, and putting himself out there as a photographer willing to try something new. While sports photography is his primary focus, Drew is open to expanding his services beyond the field. He’s interested in exploring other types of photography and hopes to capture memories for people in various settings, from family gatherings to community events.

The Golden Lens has captured much of this Hornell boys soccer championship season

For Drew, the ultimate goal is for people to appreciate his work and feel that he’s done them justice. He approaches each photo with a sense of responsibility to the subject, wanting to create images that resonate with those who view them. Whether it’s a split-second play on the football field or a quiet moment on the sidelines, he wants his subjects to feel represented and celebrated.

In an era when everyone with a smartphone can snap a quick photo, Drew’s dedication to his craft stands out. He’s an artist who understands that photography isn’t just about capturing an image but about preserving a memory and honoring the people within the frame. Drew Golden is here to stay, and through Golden Lens Photography, he’s helping to make every moment count.

Connect with Drew on Facebook or check out his archives at www.thegoldenlens.com

Johanna Elattar is a Hornell NY based writer who publishes local community news, business features, and special interest stories. You can reach her anytime at
hauntedhill@yandex.com

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