I’ve photographed a lot of volleyball games over the years. Different gyms, different lighting, different energy in every space. But walking into Lincoln High School’s newly remodeled gym on October 2nd? That hit different.

The first thing I noticed was the space. It’s roomier—not just physically, but in the way it feels. There’s breathing room. The ceiling seems higher, the walls seem brighter, and suddenly there’s a stage that feels fresh and full of possibility. There’s something about a vibrant, well-designed space that elevates everything happening inside it, and this gym absolutely delivers on that promise.

Why Spaces Matter in Sports Photography

Here’s the thing most people don’t realize about sports photography: the venue matters almost as much as the action. I can have the best camera, the perfect lens, and impeccable timing, but if the gym is cramped, poorly lit, or just feels… off… it shows up in the photos. Not always in obvious ways, but in the energy. In the way the space frames the moment.

The old gym served its purpose for years, and I’m grateful for every game I photographed there. But this remodel? It’s a game-changer. Literally. The improved lighting means cleaner shots with better color accuracy. The extra space means I can move around more freely to capture different angles without feeling like I’m in everyone’s way. And that vibrancy—the fresh paint, the updated flooring, the overall atmosphere—it translates directly into more dynamic, engaging photos.

First Impressions of the New Space

Walking in for that October 2nd game, I felt like I was seeing Lincoln High School volleyball with fresh eyes. There’s an energy that comes with christening a new space, with being part of something that feels like a fresh start. And honestly? After a tough stretch of games, that fresh start energy felt particularly meaningful.

I set up my gear and took a moment to just observe. The way the light hit the court. The sight lines from different positions. The acoustics—yes, even sound matters when you’re trying to capture the full experience of a game. Everything felt intentional, designed with purpose.

And then the game started, and all that potential became reality. Every serve, every spike, every dive—it all looked better in this space. The environment finally matched the effort these athletes are putting in, game after game, even when the scoreboard doesn’t reflect it.

What This Means for the Rest of the Season

I’m genuinely excited to finish out the volleyball season in this gym. Each game is going to give me new opportunities to explore what works best in this space. Where’s the sweet spot for capturing serves? What angles work best for those incredible defensive saves? How does the lighting change throughout an evening game?

There’s always a learning curve with a new venue, but this one feels less like a challenge and more like an opportunity. I’m looking forward to getting planted in this new home gym, to making it as familiar as the back of my hand, to knowing instinctively where to be for every type of shot.

Sometimes a change of scenery is exactly what everyone needs. New space, new energy, new possibilities.

More Than Just a Remodel

But here’s what really gets me about this whole thing: it’s not just about better photos (though that’s definitely a perk). It’s about what this space represents. These athletes show up, game after game, putting in the work regardless of what the scoreboard says. They deserve a gym that reflects that commitment. They deserve a space that feels special, that makes them proud to call it home.

When you walk into a beautiful, well-maintained facility, it sends a message: You matter. What you’re doing here matters. We invested in this space because we believe in you.

And as someone who gets to document these moments, who gets to freeze these memories in time, I’m honored to do it in a space that finally gives these athletes the backdrop they deserve—win or lose.

Looking Forward

The October 2nd game was just the beginning. There are more matches ahead, more moments to capture, more memories to create in this vibrant new space. I can already picture the end-of-season shots, the senior night photos, all the moments that matter happening right here.

This gym is going to see a lot of life. A lot of effort and determination and heart. Seasons have their ups and downs—that’s just sports—but this space? It’s going to be a constant. A place that feels like home, regardless of what’s happening on the scoreboard.

And I’m going to be there with my camera, documenting it all, grateful for a space that makes my job easier and my photos better.

To the team at Lincoln High School: welcome home. This space is yours now. Fill it with effort, with heart, with all the moments that make a season memorable.

And to everyone following along: stay tuned. There are more stories to tell from this gym, more moments to capture. The season’s not over yet, and I can’t wait to share what comes next.

Here’s to new beginnings, fresh starts, and making the most of every game in this beautiful new space.

— Alisha, Lilley Photography