Traveling with Michael Jordan as His Cinematographer

In 2006, I had an unforgettable experience that any filmmaker or sports enthusiast would dream of: I became Michael Jordan's personal cinematographer for his European tour. Flippin Entertainment was hired by Nike's Brand Jordan to capture the essence of this basketball legend as he traveled through some of the most iconic cities in Europe. Armed with my Panasonic HVX 200, I embarked on a surreal journey filled with excitement, fame, and exclusive access.

Capturing Greatness: The Adventure Begins

Traveling with Michael Jordan was not just about the glamorous locations or the privileged access. It was about witnessing greatness, the kind you rarely see in everyday life. From Paris to Barcelona, I found myself documenting moments that would be etched in my memory forever. Our crew consisted of Producer Dallas Barbara, Sound Guy Kelly Gary, and Camera Assistant Robert. Together, we lived the life of rockstars, flying on a private jet and escorted by armed guards.

The adrenaline of stepping into a world that very few get to experience was palpable. Global anticipation surrounded Jordan's every appearance, and we were at the center of it all.

The private jet we traveled on during the tour.

Exploring Iconic Cities

Our journey kicked off in Paris, where Jordan was greeted with enthusiastic fans. I remember setting up my camera near the Eiffel Tower, capturing the breathtaking beauty of the landmark against the vibrant atmosphere of the crowd. The energy was electric; it felt like I was witnessing history.

Milan followed, where Jordan participated in exclusive events. One standout moment was when he signed shoes for local fans. As I filmed, I could feel the connection between Jordan and his admirers, a bond that transcended boundaries.

Fans going wild for Michael Jordan in Europe.

Exclusive VIP Events

In London, things took a turn when we attended a VIP event that attracted celebrities and influencers alike. It was here that I had the opportunity to film Jordan interacting with other basketball legends and icons. The room was filled with stories and laughter. Jordan shared insights about his career that left those present in awe.

However, the most memorable scene occurred when we traveled to Berlin. At an event dedicated to youth sports, I filmed a segment where Jordan inspired young athletes. He spoke about the importance of hard work and perseverance, showcasing his ability to connect with the next generation while pushing them to pursue their dreams.

Window shopping for jewelry with Michael Jordan in London.

The Candid Moment with Kobe Bryant

One of the most surreal experiences occurred at the Senior Flight Camp in Las Vegas, where I captured a candid moment between Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant. You could feel the respect and admiration they had for one another. My camera was rolling as they shared laughter and stories that only they could comprehend. Being there to document such an iconic encounter was life-changing.

Jordan’s mentorship played a crucial role in shaping Kobe’s career, and to witness their relationship up close was an emotional experience. It highlighted the essence of greatness, showcasing how legends inspire one another.

The Legacy of the Tour

Reflecting on this incredible journey, I realized that documenting Michael Jordan was more than just capturing footage for a project. It was about conveying a legacy and telling a story that would inspire generations. The essence of greatness was palpable at every location we visited. Each frame I shot resonated with the narrative of hard work, passion, and drive.

As a cinematographer, I had the privilege of working with a revolutionary camera that allowed me to capture these moments with precision. The Panasonic HVX 200 transformed the way I viewed my craft, creating visuals that were not just compelling but also told a deeper story. The experience taught me the importance of being in the right place at the right time and understanding the significance of what I was filming.

Embrace Your Passion and Document Your Own Journey

In sharing my story, I encourage aspiring filmmakers and sports enthusiasts to embrace their passion wholeheartedly. Every experience, no matter how small, can contribute to telling a larger story. Focus on perfecting your craft and never shy away from opportunities that come your way, just as I did when I set out with Michael Jordan across Europe.

Documenting a legend provided me with insights that I would carry throughout my career. Be ready for the unexpected, seize the moment, and remember that it's not just about the final output but the journey you experience while creating.

Every frame captured during that trip provided a glimpse into a celebrity's life, revealing vulnerability and strength. I returned home grateful for the lessons learned and the extraordinary moments witnessed. The friendship and camaraderie I observed between legends are reminders that greatness does not exist in isolation. It thrives within communities.

Traveling with Michael Jordan not only honed my filming skills but also left me with lasting memories. Recognize the essence of what it means to document greatness—be present, be aware, and most importantly, enjoy the journey. We all have legends in our lives, whether they exist in the world of sports or otherwise. Capturing your own journey may just shred light on the greatness that exists around you.

Niketown in Hamburg Germany, where young athletes were inspired by Michael Jordan.

This experience remains etched in my mind, a testament to the power of storytelling and the magic that happens when you document life through a lens. If you aspire to capture greatness, take that leap and embrace opportunities as they come. Who knows? You might just find yourself traveling alongside a legend one day.