Bill Wippert shares the stories behind 10 classic Sabres photos

Bill Wippert’s interest in photography was sparked by the photo spreads in *Sports Illustrated*. Although not a self-described “photography geek” growing up, he was passionate about sports. Wippert bought a camera and asked to shoot a preseason game in 1974, receiving permission from former Sabres public relations director Paul Wieland.

This opportunity led to Wippert being offered a full-season credential in January of 1975, and he has been with the team ever since. Today, Wippert is the chief photographer for the Sabres and was recently honored for 50 years of capturing the team’s history. Starting with a manual-focus camera that shot black-and-white film, he has gone on to become a prominent figure in sports photography.

His journey from a high school senior with a camera to a veteran photographer illustrates his enduring passion for the craft.