From Recreational Pitch to World Cup Lens
Sofia Cupertino’s journey into sports photography began long before she ever set foot on a World Cup field. A nine‑year stint playing recreational, club and high school soccer gave her an intimate feel for the game’s rhythm, while a family trip to Yellowstone National Park sparked a fascination with capturing moments through the camera lens.
While studying journalism at Kennesaw State University, she started photographing KSU Athletics in 2023, quickly earning the trust of coaches and teammates. Her work caught the eye of soccer commentator Jason Longshore, who praised her ability to tell stories through still images.
Storytelling on the Sidelines of Atlanta’s Global Event
This summer, Cupertino is embedded with Soccer Down Here, a Atlanta‑based outlet, to cover World Cup matches being hosted in the city. Her lens has already recorded iconic scenes, from Lionel Messi in action at Copa América to Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal during a match against Cape Verde, a moment she describes as the highlight of her career so far.
Colleagues note that her photographs do more than document play; they convey the emotion, tension and joy that define each match. Professors have highlighted her work ethic, and she now aims to become the official photographer for Atlanta’s women’s soccer team, a goal that aligns with her growing reputation in the local sports community.
A Vision Beyond the Frame
Looking ahead, Cupertino plans to expand her portfolio by chronicling youth leagues, high school tournaments and professional fixtures across the Southeast. By marrying her analytical understanding of soccer with a photographer’s eye, she hopes to shape how the next generation of fans experiences the sport.