Imagine a photographer whose entire career has been intertwined with the most iconic event in American sports. John Biever has witnessed every Super Bowl in history, capturing moments that define not just the game, but the culture surrounding it. Now, as he prepares to retire after Super Bowl 60, we’re given a rare glimpse into his six-decade journey through the lens. But here’s where it gets fascinating: Biever’s story isn’t just about football—it’s about evolution, legacy, and the fleeting nature of history. From his humble beginnings as a 15-year-old tagging along with his father, Vernon (the Green Bay Packers’ team photographer), to becoming a legend in his own right, Biever’s work has chronicled the Super Bowl’s transformation from a fledgling event to a global phenomenon. And this is the part most people miss: his photos aren’t just about the game; they’re time capsules, revealing empty seats in the first Super Bowl or the raw emotion of a coach being carried off the field in victory. The Athletic sat down with Biever, now 74, to revisit five of his most cherished shots—each a testament to his unparalleled access and artistic eye. Let’s dive into these images, but beware: some of these moments might challenge your understanding of what makes a photograph truly great.
1. Max McGee, Super Bowl I (1967)
In this historic shot, Packers wide receiver Max McGee sprints toward the end zone, scoring the first-ever Super Bowl touchdown. Biever notes the irony of the empty seats in the background—a stark contrast to today’s sold-out stadiums. Is this a reminder of how far the Super Bowl has come, or a nostalgic nod to simpler times?
2. Joe Namath, Super Bowl III (1969)
Namath’s triumphant celebration after guaranteeing a Jets victory over the Colts isn’t just a photo—it’s a turning point in football history, paving the way for the NFL-AFL merger. Biever admits it’s more about the moment than the composition. But does historical significance always outweigh artistic merit?
3. John Madden, Super Bowl XI (1977)
Positioned perfectly as the game ended, Biever captured Madden’s pure joy as he was carried off the field after the Raiders’ victory. It’s a reminder that sometimes, being in the right place at the right time trumps everything else. How much of great photography is skill, and how much is luck?
4. Tom Brady, Super Bowl LV (2021)
A spotlight illuminates Brady’s face as he prepares to lead the Buccaneers onto the field during the COVID-19-restricted Super Bowl. Biever’s strategic positioning in the end zone highlights the challenges photographers faced that year. Does adversity breed creativity, or does it limit artistic expression?
5. Patrick Mahomes, Super Bowl LVII (2023)
Mahomes scrambles under pressure, searching for Travis Kelce in a frame that captures both Kansas City stars. Biever praises the composition and intensity, but is it the presence of two icons that makes this shot iconic, or the raw emotion of the moment?
As Biever steps away from the sidelines, his legacy prompts a bigger question: What does it mean to document history, and who gets to decide which moments endure? Share your thoughts below—do you agree with Biever’s choices, or do you see something different in these images? The conversation starts here.
