Melissa Melvin-Rodriguez’s (@panthersphotog) first day of work photographing the Carolina Panthers coincided with another bi...

Melissa Melvin-Rodriguez’s (@panthersphotog) first day of work photographing the Carolina Panthers coincided with another big milestone — it was her very first time at an NFL game. “It gave me a huge adrenaline rush,” Melissa, who has lived in North Carolina for over 30 years, says. “I didn’t know what to expect.” Her photography career with the Panthers kicked off as an intern in 2013. Now, she works full time as the team’s photographer. Like the players on the field, Melissa’s work is physically grueling. She carries anywhere from 30 to 40 pounds (14 to 18 kilograms) of equipment while moving up and down the sidelines. “You’re sprinting not only to not miss the action, but also to get the best spot before other people get there,” she explains.
As the Panthers head into the #superbowl, Melissa can’t help but reflect at the team’s “mind-boggling” season. “There was just this overall sense that almost everyone had that this is a really good group of guys, a really special team,” she says. “There was just this fantastic momentum happening.” And that makes Melissa’s job a lot easier — and even more fun.
Photo by @panthersphotog