At just 19, Mohawk College Photography - Still and Motion student Logan Taylor has already experienced something many aspiring sports photographers can only hope for: shooting not one, but multiple NHL games, all before graduating.
Logan recently photographed his second professional hockey game with the Toronto Maple Leafs, with a third assignment already booked.
But this opportunity has been years in the making.
Logan's dad, a longtime photographer for the Hamilton Bulldogs, one day gave Logan a glimpse into his world behind the lens.
"[My dad] asked me if I wanted to come out and shoot a game rather than staying home alone," Logan said. That first night sealed his path. "I have over 150 games now that I've shot."
At just 13, his photography career began.
Building skills in college
Before coming to Mohawk College, Logan explored photography at Westmount Secondary School in Hamilton, but he says college helped broaden and sharpen his skills.
"Mohawk had some great options for me," he said. "They teach a business aspect, they teach video I shoot studio assignments, products and portraits now."
Those courses, he said, give him a stronger foundation and confidence as he gains more real-world experience. "I'm trying to get as much as I can, experience-wise, before I go out and look for a job."
More than hockey
Logan's sports resume now stretches well beyond the OHL. He covers Hamilton Tiger-Cats football, Forge FC soccer, and the Welland Jackfish baseball team.
"The sports world is a very small world," he explains. "One thing leads to another."
Those connections have helped to strengthen his portfolio and continues to open more doors.
When the Hockey Hall of Fame reached out, Logan learned the connection came through his dad, who had shot for them in the past. Soon he found himself walking into an NHL arena with an official credential around his neck.
"When I finally got in the building and I had my pass with my name on it I kind of feel like I've made it a little bit now," he said.
His first assignment? The Pittsburgh Penguins, photographing icons like Sidney Crosby. Next came the Los Angeles Kings, and soon he'll cover the San Jose Sharks.
"They started me off with three [games]," Logan said. "After that, I guess we'll see. I hope that I get more."
Classmates cheering him on
Logan says the support from his program has meant a lot. "They all were really proud of me. They kept congratulating me and asking about it."
But more importantly, the NHL experience sharpened his ambitions.
"Being there is just kind of a different atmosphere," he said. "I was trying to soak it all in it really gave me that hunger that this is where I want to spend my career."
His ultimate goal? To work full-time in a major sports league, whether it's the NHL, MLB, NFL, or NBA, he's open to all of it.
For now, Logan is finishing his program, growing his portfolio, and preparing for what comes after graduation.
If the last few months are any indication, he's well on his way.
