Baits

One of the most well-known esports photographers @Yicun_liu shares a heartfelt story about photographing Boaster behind the scenes: “From a photojournalism perspective, every moment, whether a win or a loss, has a reason to be documented. Documenting the lows makes the climb back to the top even more meaningful. But often, when photographing the players who’ve just lost, standing in front of them with a camera feels ‘cruel’. After all, the biggest stages often bring the greatest pain. Though the rational part of me says: Don’t hesitate. Press the shutter. This is your job. Yesterday, Boaster broke down in tears in front of me, and pressing the shutter at that moment was really difficult. At Masters Shanghai 2024, after FNATIC’s loss, Boaster cried backstage, his back facing me, full of sadness. I couldn’t bring myself to go near him. Later that same year in Berlin, Boaster and Yinsu heard I was doing Worlds and invited me to dinner. During the meal, Boaster asked, ‘Did you take any photos of me crying?’ I said, ‘Sorry, you were too heartbroken that time. I couldn’t bring myself to take the shot.’ He replied, ‘It’s okay. Next time if I cry, just take the photo. I think moments like that make for beautiful memories in my career. Photos like that can be beautiful too.’ Thank you, Jake, for giving me the courage. Paris, 2025.” --------- #VALORANTChampions Story translated from Mandarin