SPORTING CHIC

China Daily photojournalist shares his 2024 Olympic Games moments

My trip to Paris marked my third time covering the Olympics, following my assignment at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics. Photographing in a foreign country brought new challenges.

For this assignment, I brought four camera bodies and five lenses: a 600 millimeter prime for distant shots, a 400 mm prime for close-ups, an 85 mm prime for portraits, a versatile 70-200 mm zoom and a wide-angle 15-35 mm lens. These choices ensured I could capture a wide range of events and perspectives.

The opening ceremony of this Olympics was unlike any before, setting on the Seine River — a departure from traditional stadium settings. The cultural and artistic ambiance of Paris shone brightly, presenting a visual feast that posed a unique challenge to photograph in its entirety.

Upon arriving in Paris, navigating the city presented significant hurdles, from the complexities of the metro system to the language barrier. Despite these challenges, local volunteers and residents, though limited in English, offered invaluable assistance, helping us acclimate to the city's rhythm.

Throughout the event, Paris showcased its iconic landmarks ingeniously. The beach volleyball venue under the Eiffel Tower with its enchanting light show, the fencing events at the Grand Palais and archery competitions at the Esplanade des Invalides — all provided stunning backdrops that blended sport with the city's rich history.

One of the most memorable additions to the award ceremonies was the athletes' selfies on the podium. A standout moment was the mixed doubles table tennis ceremony, where athletes from China, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and the Republic of Korea came together for a heartwarming photo, embodying the spirit of unity and sportsmanship.

Overall, covering the Paris Olympics was a uniquely enriching experience. Beyond capturing thrilling moments in sports, I witnessed Paris thriving with the Olympic spirit, as tourists from around the world flocked to the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum and the Arc de Triomphe.

The blend of athletic excellence and Parisian charm made this assignment unforgettable, leaving me with a deep appreciation for both the city and the Olympic ideals it embodied.

Duan Jichu contributed to this story.

weixiaohao@chinadaily.com.cn