Student Snaps Official Super Bowl Images

02/04/2014 

Some people may be surprised to learn that 20-year-old SUNY Cortland communication studies major Brandon Todd was flown out to New York City last week to work as a professional photographer for NFL Super Bowl events.

But his presence in connection with the world's biggest sports event was really just his next logical step.

Todd, of West Hempstead, N.Y., not only was among the official photographers chosen to capture the Super Bowl’s greatest moments, but also has been a member of the New York Jets football operations team since he was in 10th grade of high school.

“I decided to attend SUNY Cortland because my father told me about their excellent sport management program and I felt as if that would potentially help me secure a job with the New York Jets or any other professional organization,” said Todd, a sport management minor.

For three of the five days he worked at the 50 Yard Lounge Event, which took place at the One Penn Plaza in New York City. Starting Wednesday and lasting all the way until the day of the big game, the 50 Yard Lounge Event was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that provided guests with a blend of food, football and music. Celebrity chefs and football legends were present.

“I was the only photographer at the 50 Yard Lounge Event so it was a huge responsibility,” Todd said. “I had to make sure that I was catching priceless, candid moments of the 200-plus guests that were in attendance.”

On Thursday, “Mike & Mike,” the hosts of ESPN’s popular sports-talk radio show, recorded a live show at the 50 Yard Lounge Event. And on Sunday, ESPN radio personalities Michael Kay, Don Lagreca and Ryan Ruocco spoke on a live show before leaving for the game, Todd said.

Todd also worked the Jets House, which was next door to the 50 Yard Lounge Event. The Jets House, located on 33rd Street in New York City, was filled with famous celebrities, NFL players and dedicated fans who kept the Super Bowl festivities going early into Monday morning. 

“When I went over to the Jets House there were two or three other photographers present but we were all there to achieve the same goal, which was to capture the best moments of the night,” said Todd.

Beginning as only a hobby in 10th grade, Todd grew a strong passion for photography but did not consider it a serious profession until he was a senior in high school.

Aside from capturing images of the New York Jets, Todd considers himself a freelance photographer who will shoot pictures of just about anything, from music concerts to fashion to young children.  

“What I love about photography most is that I have the opportunity to show life through my own eyes,” said Todd.

“I really feel art is the one aspect of life that helps connect the world,” Todd said. “A life without art is a life without meaning.”

Todd was grateful for this past weekend’s opportunities and only hopes that his artistic ability will be published for the world to see.

“All in all, it was a great weekend. I got to take pictures, enjoy good food and music and reconnect with my New York Jets family,” Todd said. “Everyone in the organization is amazing and they truly look out for me. I appreciate each and every one of them.”

Visit his official website at Branndannart.com.