Q&A with Bee Trofort-Wilson, sports and portraits photographer and member of Black Women Photographers organization
Photo provided by Bee Trofort-Wilson
For the third consecutive year, TrackTown USA and Black Women Photographers are working together to provide paid opportunities for Black women and non-binary creatives to cover select track & field events this summer at Hayward Field. This will be the first year that will include videographers in addition to photographers.
Apply today to be a part of the Black Women Photographers and TrackTown USA 2024 cohort at BlackWomenPhotographers.com/TrackTown-USA. Application deadline is Friday, March 8, 2024.
We sat down with Bee Trofort-Wilson, a talented commercial and editorial portrait, sports, and fitness photographer, as well as a member of the Black Women Photographers organization. She’s photographed athletes from all over the world at some of the biggest track & field meets in the world, including The Prefontaine Classic and the World Athletics Championships Oregon22.
What sparked your journey into photography, especially within sports?
Growing up, sports was my first love, and art was my second. Being in the magnet art program from middle school to high school, and studying art in college, photography allowed me to mix both of my passions, and taught me my voice as an artist. It allowed me to stay in the game, celebrate athletes, and share stories that often go unseen.
Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone at the 2022 USATF Outdoor Championships. Photo by Bee Trofort-Wilson
What is your favorite memory while taking photos at Hayward Field?
My favorite memory at Hayward Field was the Athlete Portrait studio during World Champs [2022]! Capturing athletes from all around the world, showcasing their personalities, and creating lasting branding portraits for them to treasure throughout their career has been an unforgettable highlight for me! The Google Translate app was my best friend that week!
Donald Scott at the 2022 World Athletics Championships. Photo by Bee Trofort-Wilson
What is a key piece of advice for black women aspiring to work in sports photography?
My advice is to "Bee Fearless" and remember "your voice matters." Don't allow fear to stop you from going after what you want! If there's an opportunity you seek, go after it, even through the disappointments. Your voice and your art are more powerful than you know! And network!
Allyson Felix at the 2022 USATF Outdoor Championships. Photo by Bee Trofort-Wilson