Get to Know Me

Hi, everyone! I figured it's about time I introduced myself since many of you know my photos better than you know me.

I'm Hanna Young, a proud Lincolnview alum, sports photographer, and the person you'll probably spot on the sidelines trying not to trip while chasing the perfect shot.

Sports have always been a huge part of my life. I spent years playing softball and also had the chance to play soccer and basketball before discovering that my favorite place wasn't on the field or the court—it was behind the camera, capturing the moments that make sports so special.

After graduating from Lincolnview, I attended Defiance College, where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Sports Management and a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in Writing. When I'm not at a game, I work as a paraprofessional at Payne Elementary in a classroom I absolutely love. Outside of work, you'll usually find me reading, editing way too many photos, or hanging out with my two dogs, Max and Junie, who are much less interested in sports than I am.

I've been taking pictures since sixth grade, which means this is my 10th school year behind the camera! My favorite part of sports photography is being able to preserve the moments and memories that athletes and their families will look back on for years to come. The game eventually ends, but the memories don't—and I love being able to freeze those moments in time.

Fun fact: I almost always have my dad with me at games! He's the one who first encouraged my love for photography, and after all these years, he's still my favorite road-trip buddy, biggest supporter, second shooter, and unofficial assistant. (He also deserves some credit for carrying my gear every now and then.)

Another fun part of having my dad with me at games is that he's become a familiar face around the sidelines. Most people know him as "Hanna's Dad" (His actual name is Dave in case you were wondering). He's been part of this photography journey from the very beginning, and I'm lucky to have him along for the ride.

Thank you all for letting me be a small part of your athletes' stories. The parents, past and present athletes, and past and present coaches are truly what make this so rewarding. Your encouragement, kindness, and trust mean more than you know.

Getting to watch athletes grow over the years—and seeing familiar faces season after season—is one of the greatest privileges of this job. Another cool part has been photographing multiple siblings from the same families over the years and getting to be a small part of preserving those memories. The relationships I've built through photography are what continue to make me love what I do, and I'm so thankful to be able to capture these moments for all of you.

If you see me at a game this season, please don't hesitate to come say hi! I absolutely love meeting the families, athletes, and fans who make this community so special. I'm so excited for another season of celebrating our athletes, our teams, and this incredible community.

Here's to another great year!

— Hanna