Ken "Tank' Franks (photo by Jack Trageser)
Sometimes, the “accidental” photos come out the best.
This is Ken “Tank” Franks, a professional player from Roeland Park, Kansas. The image was taken on the 13th hole at the Winthrop University Lakefront course in Rock Hill, S.C. The hole is a 432-foot downhill shot to a precise green, which is surrounded by out-of-bounds areas.
The story (from the photographer, Jack Trageser):
I arrived a couple of days early for the United States Disc Golf Championship in 2009, my first time playing in the event. I went out to practice on the course and ran into Ken. He had already played the event numerous times and graciously invited me to join him and take my time throwing and taking pictures.
I had accidentally set my camera on a setting that gave it the effect you see, with most of the colors changed to black and white, but they yellow remained as a selective color. The pic is an enlargement that focuses on the intimidating, focused look of a guy who actually has a great sense of humor and big heart, and the basket more than 400 feet away.
Techie info:
- Camera: Canon Powershot SD 790 IS
- Shutter speed: 1/640
- F-stop: F/3.2
- ISO: 80
Why we chose to use this photo:
Sometimes those “ooops” shots give you some of the best results.
Would this have been a good shot if Jack had taken it without the setting being as it is? Probably. The colors would have been there and it would be nice. But would it focus on things the way it does as it is? Not likely.
This is a really cool image. Jack notes that Ken has even used it as his Facebook profile photo for ages.
Have some great images you want to share with the Rattling Chains readers? Please e-mail pj [at] rattlingchains.com with the subject “Photo of the Week.” Please note that we can’t guarantee all images will be used. Send as many as you would like as if the photos are top notch, we’ll use more than one from you!
When sending in images, please remember to send the story about the photo, the location and any technical information possible! The story can be as long or as short as you like, but please make sure you give some details!
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I don’t know of any photographic image, that I’ve seen, that offers an image of disc golf that could qualify to be stamped on a coin or be the icon on a tournament flag, as this photo. This photo reminds me of the sculptors who created the images of Greek discus throwers that have remained famous over the centuries. The photo’s persona takes on a rugged look, which can, of course, be to disc golf’s favor or detriment. While the sport is versatile in that it can reflect people of superior muscular poise, few would argue the game is more about technique than strength. This photo, however, depicts a posture of determination and focus, along with superior strength much like the American eagle on our coins. Truly, an amazingly powerful photograph and statement! Due to the times we live in, no doubt the “flip-side” will want to pursue a feminine version. Wouldn’t this image look great on some T-shirts?
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