A Sun‑lit Slam Reimagined
Photographer Dustin Snipes recently revived a legendary basketball image, this time featuring rising star AJ Dybantsa.
The shoot demanded more than just a camera; Snipes deployed a variable ND filter to shield both his lens and his eyes while pointing directly at the Sun.
He also assembled a powerful lighting rig that could match the brilliance of the sky, ensuring Dybantsa stood out against the bright backdrop.
Every element was timed to the minute, with Snipes mapping the Sun’s trajectory to capture the precise moment when the ball met the light.
The project was commissioned by Red Bull, which sees Dybantsa as the projected number one pick in the upcoming NBA Draft.
Working from San Pedro, California, the team coordinated with Canon and Profoto gear, leveraging the companies’ latest camera bodies and studio lights to achieve the desired exposure.
Protective measures were taken to guard the equipment from the Sun’s intense heat and radiation, a necessity for any shoot that involves shooting straight into daylight.
The final image, published on PetaPixel, illustrates how modern technology can push the boundaries of visual storytelling, turning an impossible‑looking concept into a striking reality.