Bryce France

Slowing Down the Sports World

By Daniela Cintron

Published April 1, 2025

In bustling Atlanta, where food, culture and sports collide, photographer Bryce France has found his niche in documenting the city’s energy. As a part of the “Colors of Atlanta” documentary, France’s work takes center stage, offering an intimate glimpse into the city through the camera lens. With its diverse neighborhoods, dynamic food scene and deep sports culture, Atlanta is the perfect backdrop for France’s storytelling.

The Soul of Atlanta: A City that Inspires

The dynamic and ever-changing landscape of Atlanta deeply influences France’s photography. He says the environment fuels his desire to tell stories from all walks of life. Atlanta’s identity, shaped by a melting pot of cultures and backgrounds, is a key inspiration for his photography.

“Atlanta inspires my photography in a diverse way. It makes me think of everybody in an environment,” France says. “I want to tell everybody’s story. If I could, I would capture all of Atlanta’s stories because there are so many.”

A Foundation in Sports and Fine Art

Born in Erie, Pa. and raised in Valdosta, Ga., France’s journey into photography began with a passion for fine art. His college years shaped the foundation of his current style, but his work assisting renowned photographer Kevin Liles, who now captures the Braves for Major League Baseball, truly set France on his path.

While his roots are in fine art, his career quickly expanded into sports photography. His love for sports, particularly from his background as an athlete, allows him to capture an athlete’s spirit.

“I grew up playing sports – soccer, basketball, football,” he says. “If I weren’t doing this, I’d be an athlete.”

This connection to sports is evident in his work with major leagues, including the NFL, MLB, the Atlanta Braves and Atlanta United FC. Through these opportunities, France has honed his ability to capture action and the quiet moments that often tell the most compelling stories, illustrating an athlete’s journey, struggles and triumphs.

The Art of Storytelling through Photography

France’s work goes beyond the traditional portrait. His approach is rooted in storytelling, focusing on capturing the raw, authentic moments that define a person or a scene. For France, a photo is not just a static image, it’s an emotional experience that tells a larger story. One of his most personal projects involved documenting a friend who had completed the Appalachian Trail.

“I wanted to capture his role in the running community and how he’s become a part of the city’s healing process,” France says. “It’s about telling a story that’s not just about the physical journey, but the mental and emotional one, too.”

The shoot for “Colors of Atlanta,” set against the backdrop of the city’s greenery and iconic locations like Piedmont Park and Jackson Street Bridge, sought to blend the natural beauty of the Appalachian Trail with the urban landscape of Atlanta. The intention was clear: to create images that felt both authentic and staged, blending the runner’s natural exhaustion with the city’s energy.

Atlanta’s Role in the Creative Process

In many ways, Atlanta is a collaborator in France’s creative process. He’s quick to acknowledge that the city’s diverse population and scenic beauty offer endless inspiration. The “Colors of Atlanta” documentary showcases how he incorporates this diversity into his work. His photography brings the heart of Atlanta into focus.

“The creative process comes to you when it comes to you. Sometimes you just have to be there and be part of it,” he explains.

A Vision for the Future

As Atlanta continues to grow and evolve, so does France’s vision for his work. He’s excited about the future of photography in the city and the opportunities to document its continued transformation. With his unique perspective and storytelling abilities, Bryce France is poised to be a key figure in the creative community, not just in Atlanta but in the broader world of visual storytelling.

Learn more about other talented photographers featured on “Colors of Atlanta” and watch the TV series.

Daniela is the content manager and bilingual editor for Discover Atlanta. As an award-winning bilingual journalist, she is passionate about shinning light on untold stories about culture, food and Atlanta.