Capturing Moments of Joy: A Clarion Area Senior Blends Photography and Entrepreneurship in Sports

CLARION, Pa. – At the start of the year, I got my first look at a very professional, full-color, digital brochure crafted by aspiring photographer/entrepreneur Brinley Kiskadden, a senior at Clarion Area High School. Brinley operates BK Media, which focuses on sports photography, custom graphics, and photo sessions.

Article by Dave McClaine, Clarion Sports Zone

Those acquainted with Brinley recognize her as a thoughtful and generous individual. The brochure symbolizes that—while detailing “milestones” and highlights, she prominently acknowledges those who have supported her during her “first year in photography.”

This works reciprocally, as Brinley has supported numerous teams, individual athletes, local online and print media, and others. Clarion Sports Zone has been a significant recipient of Brinley’s kindness.

After perusing the brochure, I realized I had to write an article about Brinley and BK Media, highlighting the roots of this venture. I essentially requested Brinley to share everything (what BK Media entails, how it originated, the individuals who have assisted her, any prospective plans for photography beyond high school, etc.).

The gathered information and remarks shared by other local people who have benefited from Brinley’s kindness (and vice-versa) paint a picture that illustrates “It takes a village…”

The feedback provided by some whose lives have been influenced by Brinley and the photos utilized emphasizes that notion. Several photo captions include Brinley’s explanations for using the images, further demonstrating her dedication to this work.

Setting the scene is the main text of the brochure, minus photos, along with Brinley’s caption remarks, which will be included in the article.

Throughout, remember this was crafted by a high school junior who has now become a senior.

(The link to BK Media and the comprehensive brochure are here.)

2024 YEAR IN REVIEW | BK MEDIA

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported me during my inaugural year in photography! I am immensely grateful for every opportunity I have received. I am incredibly appreciative of those who have reached out regarding photo sessions and custom graphics; it truly means the world to me!

-BK

• BK Media Crafted: 58 Graphics and 2 Sports Programs
• BK Media Captured: 14 Football Games, 14 Volleyball Matches, 13 Soccer Matches, 13 Baseball Games, 11 Basketball Games, 10 Photo Sessions, 5 Wrestling Competitions/Tournaments, 3 Cross Country Events, 2 Media Days
• This totals 85 events captured in 2024!
• Top Two Events: 2A Football State Championship Game
  • (After being denied a media pass for this game, I was determined to take photos, and photographed from a distance until halftime. I was capturing images outside the field, when a videographer approached and offered me a pass from the prior day’s 1A and 4A games. I was able to get onto the field without anyone questioning me, allowing me to capture shots from the sidelines. This game will forever remain memorable, as I was able to document a once-in-a-lifetime experience for Central Clarion’s players).
• Clarion vs Dubois Central Catholic at PNC Park
  • (Capturing these highly skilled teams in a major league baseball stadium was an incredible experience! Lauren Brinkley and I had the privilege of sitting where the Pittsburgh Pirates’ photographers and videographers capture content during games. This experience was unforgettable, and being so close to the action was phenomenal.)
• Most Viewed Instagram Facebook Post: The graphic for the Central Clarion Wildcats Football team, which celebrated their win over 2A WPIAL Champions, South Park, enabling them to advance to the 2A State Final game. This graphic garnered 11,600 views on Instagram and 4,243 views on Facebook.
• Instagram Followers: Since launching BK Media on February 25th, 2024, up until December 31st, 2024, my Instagram has reached 620 followers, averaging two new followers daily.
• Facebook Followers: BK Media launched on Facebook on March 8th, 2024, gaining 303 followers by December 31st, 2024.

Some astonishing facts and figures, wouldn’t you agree?

However, Brinley’s entry into the field of photography was entirely unplanned.

“I began my photography journey on December 13, 2023. I attended a Central Clarion wrestling event at Clarion Area High School and noticed Maria Wilson (Clarion Area Sports photographer) capturing images. I requested if she could send me a few for the wrestling page in the yearbook.

“She asked if I’d like to take some pictures, handed me one of her spare cameras, and demonstrated how to use it. My initial photos were quite poor, but I believe I have progressed since. After the wrestling match, I returned home and informed my mother that I wanted a camera.

“She jokingly contacted Maria, saying, ‘Fantastic, now my child desires a camera.’”

And thus, the journey began.

Surprise delivery of a thoughtful gift. “The next day, after school, Maria stopped by my house and delivered a camera. I was thrilled to commence taking photos but was uncertain about where to begin.”

The generosity didn’t end there.

“Maria has been an incredible mentor. I genuinely admire her, and I am immensely grateful for everything she has provided. She has imparted so much knowledge and permitted me to accompany her to soccer, volleyball, football games, and other photography-related events.

“I feel exceptionally fortunate to have someone so remarkable as a role model, and I will eternally credit Maria for everything she has accomplished for me and recognizing my potential right from the start. Without her, I would never have picked up a camera, started snapping pictures, and established BK Media.”

Another individual significantly influencing the promotion of Brinley and BK Media is Susanne Fenske.

“Susanne Fenske, a close companion of Maria, engages in ample photography for Clarion-Limestone High School. During C-L’s homecoming football match, she allowed me to use one of her lenses, which was wonderful for having a fresh perspective. Susanne has shared a significant number of my images on Clarion-Limestone’s Booster Club Instagram and Facebook accounts, greatly enhancing the visibility of my photography.”

Brinley mentioned that overcoming her initial nerves took a considerable amount of time. “It took me some time to gather enough confidence to start capturing images with minimal experience. My first few events were Clarion Area boys’ and girls’ basketball matches and the District Nine Wrestling Championships held at Tippin Gymnasium in Clarion University.”

The work on the wrestling programs followed. “I have always had a flair for creativity and a passion for design, so last year, before diving into photography, I proposed the revival of the wrestling program. About twenty years prior, when my father, Bryan Kiskadden (the current Wildcat elementary wrestling coach), was a wrestler, the Clarion Bobcats Wrestling team had a program sold at home matches.”

“I suggested the idea of reinstating it to my dad and varsity head wrestling coach, Braun Gourley. They were enthusiastic about it, so I crafted a program using Canva, which was printed and subsequently sold at home matches.”

“The initial program I designed didn’t include any images, but once Maria handed me a camera, I seized the opportunity to capture varsity and junior high team photos, a coach photo, as well as individual portraits. I included those images in the second printing of the program. For this season’s wrestling program, I was committed to developing an improved edition from last year. I took all the photos featured in the program, devised interview sheets for the seniors, requested select coaches to discuss this season and past experiences, and composed the majority of the write-ups within the program.”

“I take immense pride in this season’s program, and a heartfelt ‘thank you’ goes out to Braun Gourley and the Central Clarion wrestling squad for allowing me to create the programs for both last season and this one.”

To increase her business’s visibility, Brinley embraced social media.

“I established my Instagram account, BK Photography, on February 25th, 2024, and later rebranded it to BK Media (@b.k._media). As per popular demand, BK Media ventured onto Facebook on March 8th, 2024, for those who don’t utilize Instagram.”

“I was fortunate to grow from zero to over six hundred followers on BK Media’s Instagram and just above three hundred on Facebook within under a year. While that may not seem substantial to some, my target was five hundred followers on Instagram by the time I graduated high school, and that target has already been surpassed. I was eager to showcase my work, even though I was just beginning.”

“I began editing my images in September 2024, which my mom, Emily Kiskadden, had been encouraging me to do for months. Previously, I had been posting unedited pictures, which now brings me amusement. After obtaining Adobe Creative Cloud, I was able to refine my photos in Lightroom and create designs in Photoshop.”

Brinley faces numerous challenges in photographing spring sports, but she receives assistance.

“Spring inevitably presents difficulties for me in terms of photography. I am part of the Central Clarion Wildcats softball team, which complicates my ability to capture track and baseball games. My sister, Lillian Kiskadden, and my dad helped take pictures during a few softball games last season.”

“I shared several of those images and credited them appropriately. I captured as many baseball games as possible, often rushing from softball practices to Clarion Area’s baseball contests.”

This challenge opened up another pathway for Brinley’s skills.

“Since I couldn’t attend many baseball games, I began creating and sharing ‘game day graphics’ for Clarion’s team. I thought that as I wasn’t taking many photos of the team, I might as well create ‘game day graphics’ for them. I started designing graphics using Canva, and it appeared people appreciated them.”

Brinley’s involvement with the baseball team resulted in an exhilarating opportunity. “On Saturday, April 27th, 2024, Clarion Area and DuBois Central Catholic baseball teams clashed at PNC Park. One of my closest friends, Lauren Brinkley, and I got the chance to sit where the photographers and videographers from the Pittsburgh Pirates capture footage during games.”

“I will forever remember this experience, and being in such proximity to all the action was extraordinary. The pictures I took of the players turned out spectacular with the Pittsburgh skyline as a backdrop. This opportunity would not have been achievable without David Smail (Clarion Area Baseball Boosters representative), who facilitated our access to be as near the field as possible.”

“After our softball season concluded, I managed to photograph nearly every baseball game Clarion played.”

Additionally, Brinley was commissioned to create a program for Clarion Area’s baseball team for the 2023-24 season at David Smail’s behest. She took her own photos and contributed extensively to the writing herself.

No breaks during the summer months. “All summer long, I documented the Honey Hunter baseball team, which is a high school Legion team. I also undertook my first senior session, attended several of my brother’s minor league baseball matches, and carried my camera along on my family’s vacation to the Outer Banks. All summer, I was eagerly anticipating photographing high school football for the first time!”

As fall rolled in. “The commencement of my senior year of high school approached, bringing my…

first endeavor capturing high school football.

“I spent most of my Friday evenings on the sidelines of Central Clarion. I vividly recall shooting my inaugural game at Wiser Field, located at Clarion Area High School, and I was so daunted by the athletes and the bustling atmosphere that I remained stationary for the entire match. After attending several games, I confidently roamed the sidelines to seize countless remarkable moments.

“Without Maria’s assistance, I would have never entered the field as I had been initially informed that I was prohibited. Maria reassured me that I could stand on the sidelines for photographs and urged me to trust in my abilities, assuring me that nobody would question my presence.

What initially appeared to be a significant letdown transformed into something remarkable. “The pinnacle of the football season was undoubtedly the 2A State Championship match at Cumberland Valley High School.

“A few days prior to the state championship, I reached out to my principal in addition to the PIAA regarding a media pass. I did not receive any response from the PIAA, and I was notified the day before the game that a media pass would not be granted.

“I was incredibly disheartened; however, my dad provided me with encouragement and advised me not to give up. Heeding his counsel, I took my camera along for the journey. I was resolute in my intention to capture photographs, even if it required taking them from a distance. From the start of the game until halftime, I positioned myself beside the fence, outside the field.

“While capturing images of Central Clarion’s band during halftime, a videographer approached me and mentioned something akin to, “Hey, do you want my media pass from yesterday’s games?” He also indicated that it had a different color scheme than the 2A game and told me I might be able to access the field. I slipped the media pass into my pocket, allowing the lanyard portion to hang out so no one would realize I was not supposed to be on the field.

“I advanced towards the field, and nobody questioned or impeded my progress. I have no clue who that individual was, but I am immensely grateful for the media pass he provided. Even with a disappointing conclusion to the match, it was an extraordinary game to photograph these two undefeated teams.

Brinley covers several other sports as well. “While I have discussed baseball and football extensively, I cannot overlook the other sports!

“As I prepared to photograph my initial volleyball match for Clarion Area, I felt quite intimidated. In January of 2024, I made the difficult choice to depart from the volleyball team after serving as a defensive specialist for a few years. Part of me regrets this decision, but it granted me additional time for photography rather than had I participated in my senior season, which was not why I ceased playing.

“I truly relished photographing the Clarion Bobcats volleyball team and witnessing their victory in the District Nine Championship against longtime rival, Clarion-Limestone. I understand the hard work Clarion invested to earn the District Nine title and I adored capturing this match. Immortalizing every shred of emotion on camera and being able to share it with the players, coaches, and their families is incredibly meaningful to me because they will always possess something, photographs, from that game.

“JJ Wilson, my closest friend for eleven years and Maria’s daughter, was eager for me to photograph her soccer matches. Her mother shared all the best spots for taking photos along with valuable tips and tricks for soccer photography. I had never watched or taken pictures of soccer before, so this was a new experience. I also shot images of Central Clarion boys soccer and followed them to the District Nine Championship game, which they unfortunately did not win.

“My sister, Tenley Kiskadden, participated in cross country this fall. For the initial several meets, I forgot to bring my camera. I’m not quite sure why I neglected to take it, but I regret that choice. I ultimately began photographing the meets and thoroughly enjoyed witnessing the junior high and varsity teams thrive.

“I covered the KSAC meet at Keystone High School but unfortunately was unable to attend the District race. The boys varsity team advanced to states at Hershey. The cross country state championship was an excellent experience to document, and I had a wonderful time with some truly remarkable individuals.”

And what’s currently happening. “As wrestling, swimming, andbasketball seasons are presently in full swing, and I aim to attend as many games as I can while also designing graphics for the teams.

“My sister, Tenley, has allowed me to conduct a few photoshoots for her. Typically, I have to plead with my family to participate in shoots; I appreciate that it provides a brief diversion from sports photography. I’ve completed one senior session and one family shoot.

“I certainly prefer sports photography compared to other types of shoots, but I enjoy both! I take pleasure in creating graphics for game days, honors, and college commitments.

“Occasionally, individuals contact me to purchase photographs and custom graphics. I am extremely grateful and appreciative of everyone who has reached out to me!”

What does Brinley envision for her future? “Upon graduating from Clarion Area High School, I will be enrolling at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. I plan to major in marketing and earn a certificate in photography. I aim to work in social media marketing while continuing photography on the side.

“Additionally, I intend to capture as many college sporting events as possible during my time at IUP. It may seem highly ambitious, but it would be a dream to one day work with either the NFL or MLB and photograph football or baseball. But hey, dreams exist for a reason, and they can indeed come true.”

They surely do. Reach for the Stars, Brinley!!

Special thanks to a few others.

“I am immensely grateful for all the photographers and local news outlets that have taught me so much, guided me, and showcased my images for people to view. I feel truly blessed and beyond thankful to have supporters through all my endeavors.

“It means a great deal to me when people reach out to compliment my work, request a custom graphic, tag and credit me when using my images, set my photos as their profile picture, and when my photographs are featured in news outlets.

“Having the opportunity to photograph diverse sporting events has provided me with a fresh perspective and allows me to capture athletes in their element. I would like to express my gratitude to everyone for their support, and I eagerly anticipate where this journey will lead me.

“A huge “thank you” goes to the Clarion Mirror for utilizing my images and crediting me in your printed edition! I love seeing my photographs published in outlets like the Clarion Mirror or other newspapers.

“In the fall, I had the idea to ask Jennifer Herron, head coach of Clarion University volleyball, if I could photograph her players. She agreed, and I captured some fantastic moments from such a talented team.

“Chris Rossetti has been sharing my images on D9and10sports.com for quite some time, almost from the start. I love logging into Instagram or Facebook to see my photos accompanying his articles; it’s incredible!

“Mike Kilroy has also featured my images in his articles, and I met him at the conclusion of the Clarion vs. South Park game. He has complimented much of my work.

“I was advised not to mention Dave McClaine, but I feel compelled to. He was the first individual to utilize my photos in an article, and I vividly recall the excitement of seeing my work published on Clarion Sports Zone.

“Following his use of my photographs for articles, Explore Clarion, D9 and 10 Sports.com, among others, began using my images as well. To Dave, my gratitude for using my photos from the very start can’t be expressed enough, it genuinely means the world to me!”

And a special shout-out, congratulations, and best wishes are sent your way from these individuals, Brinley!

Maria Wilson: Brinley is such a wonderful young lady. I have known her since kindergarten at Immaculate Conception school and I have always been aware of how exceptional she is. Since she was little, she has always been incredibly sweet and kind, which is what we adore about her. I feel fortunate to have Brinley as my daughter’s best friend. She is part of our family.

“I vividly remember the day I asked Brinley if she could assist with taking photos. I was unable to be in two places simultaneously. I am very selective about who can handle my cameras, and I knew Brinley would treat the camera with care.

Her interest made me enthusiastic, as neither of my daughters has pursued photography, and I thought this opportunity would be fantastic for her. Brinley has always been shy and reserved, and I believed this might help her gain confidence in herself.

“I coached softball for Clarion Little League, and I pleaded with Emily, Brinley’s mother, to enroll her three daughters. Thankfully, she did. I often told my team, it doesn’t matter if you can’t hit, throw, or catch a ball; with dedication, you will improve.

“I have always witnessed Brinley’s progress in everything she undertakes. She is determined, and I believe in her; after seeing her photographs, I knew she would excel. She has surpassed my expectations. I am incredibly proud of her. I am amazed by all she has accomplished. It took me years to learn photography, and I cherish it as a hobby.

“Hearing the remarkable things Brinley has said about me brings tears to my eyes. However, she is the one who has inspired me. I am excited to see what the future holds for her.

“I will always be there to support her in whatever she requires. She is the third daughter I didn’t have but am grateful to have her and her family in our lives. My heart is overflowing with love for her.”

Suzanne Fenske: “Thank you for spotlighting Brinley! I’m pleased to add my thoughts for the article – Brinley has exhibited a remarkable innate talent for photography and has eagerly shared her gift with the entire community!

“We are incredibly fortunate to have local youth eager to learn and grow! I have no doubt that Brinley will achieve great things in her future, and I can’t wait to see what she accomplishes!”

Penn West Clarion Volleyball coach Jennifer Herron: “This is fantastic that you’re featuring her. She does an outstanding job.

“I’ve been lucky enough to get to know Brinley through developing a close friendship with her mother, Emily. Over the past few years, I’ve watched her passion grow as a photographer and her evolution as a person.

“I’m extremely thankful that she asked if she could photograph a match. Anytime we can assist someone in honing their skills, we seize the opportunity.

“I also have a son who plays Football and Baseball at Clarion Area, and Brinley’s capacity to seize such remarkable moments for the athletes and their families are keepsakes that we will cherish for years ahead. Her influence in the community is merely the commencement of what I anticipate to be a highly rewarding venture in the realm of sports photography.”

Wildcats Head Football Coach Dave Eggleton: The contributions Brinley made by photographing our team were exceptional.

“I am confident she is unaware of the gratitude the families of our football team have for the hard work and commitment she put into capturing and editing these fantastic action shots every Friday. These aren’t just images, but legacies that she has immortalized for each of these players to hold onto indefinitely.

“For someone new to photographing, she did an outstanding job of seizing these instances.

“I wish her the utmost success as she transitions to college and her future endeavors. We will certainly miss her incredible action shots!”

Dave Smail Clarion Area Baseball Boosters: “We are all fortunate to have Brinley and her enthusiasm for photography. She has excelled in capturing moments that will represent more than just a memory.

“She possesses a skill that will propel her towards her aspirations and dreams.

It fills me with joy to witness her and other young individuals have a fervor for their ideas and actions.

“I eagerly anticipate what lies ahead for BK and wish her well at IUP.

“She takes great satisfaction in immortalizing the moments of her school peers, and it is evident.”

Central Clarion Wildcats Wrestling Coach Braun Gourley: “Brinley has been an invaluable resource to the wrestling team.

“She has invested countless hours developing our program over the past two years. Her social media platforms have become the primary sources for all Wildcat athletes.

“We wish her the very best in the times ahead!”

YDL and D9and 10 Sports.com Director Chris Rossetti: “Brinley has been a joy to collaborate with.

“Whenever we can give a young individual a chance to engage, it’s truly something special. It’s genuinely a mission of our company to nurture the forthcoming generation of reporters, photographers, and broadcasters, and Brinley has fully embraced it.

“Observing her development as a photographer has been a delight. I, or rather we, all of us including our audience, are incredibly fortunate that she has chosen to share some of her craft with us. I am confident she will achieve remarkable things in her life, and I am thrilled she has opted to attend my alma mater, IUP.”

The Clarion Mirror Staff: “The Clarion Mirror is deeply grateful to those who permit us to publish articles and photographs without any charge. It’s a wonderful method to support one another and allows us to keep offering the Mirror free of charge to our audience. We consistently enjoy showcasing local talent and artistry. We wish Brinley success in chasing her ambitions. Keep working diligently and share your God-given skills, and you will go far!

EYT Media/Explore Clarion Sports Director Mike Kilroy: “It’s immediately apparent that Brinley is passionate about photography. It’s clear she invests effort and truly enjoys it. And she’s exceptionally talented. Combining all these elements results in a promising future.

“Her images are of professional quality. I would compare her work to that of some of the professionals I have collaborated with over the years.

“She also appears to have a natural eye for it. She can foresee where the action will unfold and position herself to seize a great shot. That’s a skill that often cannot be taught.

“You either possess it or you don’t.”

And not least, Brinley’s parents, Bryan and Emily Kiskadden: It has been awe-inspiring to observe Brinley uncovering her passion and witnessing her skills and creativity blossom right before our eyes. We are immensely proud of her and incredibly eager to see what lies ahead.

All appreciation goes to Maria Wilson, who entrusted Brinley with a camera. She recognized potential in her and is the true reason she’s achieved what she has today.

(Wishing all the best to Brinley in her pursuit of this aspiration! Thank you to everyone who aided in the creation of this article!)