The report says Pantling prepared carefully before each match, studying access points, lighting and potential storylines. Yet the strongest photographs often emerged when the original plan changed.
That was evident in the celebration of Spain’s trophy success. After receiving permission to enter the dressing room, Pantling found champagne spraying through the room as David Raya and teammates celebrated. Nico Williams, meanwhile, asked for a photograph inspired by a famous Michael Jordan image in the shower beside the trophy.
The scene could not have been scripted. It had to be recognised and captured quickly.
Pantling’s approach also shaped his images of Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lamine Yamal.
In Kansas City, the report says he moved close to the pitch for a low-angle photograph of Messi taking a corner. The perspective emphasised the Argentine’s extended leg, with the stadium lights positioned above him.
Ronaldo required a different adjustment. Pantling had expected to photograph the Portugal captain leaving the tunnel, but security and changing light forced him outside. From there, he framed supporters and photographers holding up phones as they focused on Ronaldo.
Yamal appeared alone on the field after the anthems. Soft light filtered through the stadium roof, while smoke from pre-match effects gave the image a hazy, almost cinematic quality.
These photographs are not simply records of famous players. They reveal how a tournament feels: the chaos of a dressing room, the isolation before kick-off and the intense attention surrounding established stars.
Pantling’s work shows why football photography remains part preparation, part positioning and part nerve. As the next major tournament approaches, the next defining image may again belong to the photographer willing to abandon the safe plan when the game offers something better.