PAMPLONA, Spain (AP) — Miguel Osés, a photographer from Pamplona in northern Spain, has collaborated with The Associated Press for two years. He recently shared insights about an extraordinary photograph taken during the renowned Running of the Bulls event.

Choosing the Moment

This striking image was captured during the Running of the Bulls, a highlight of the San Fermín festival held annually in Pamplona. The photo features the dramatic Mercaderes Curve, where the path sharply turns into Estafeta Street. Photographers are assigned positions by drawing cards daily, and Osés considers this spot to be one of the most thrilling and perilous due to its sharp bend and the speed of the animals.

Photographic Technique

Standing atop the wooden barricades lining the route, about 2.5 meters (8 feet) above the ground, provides a comprehensive view of the street and curve. The run begins at 8 a.m., navigating narrow and tall streets, demanding precise photography techniques. Osés applied a fast shutter speed of 1/1250 and a high ISO of 2000 to capture the action accurately. Among the three remote cameras he positions daily, this handheld device enabled him to capture the tightly packed and swiftly moving bulls potentially colliding with barriers, endangering runners. He shot multiple frames, with the selected photograph chosen by his AP editor.

Impactful Imagery

This image vividly illustrates the danger inherent in the infamous run. Six powerful bulls, exceeding 500 kilograms (1,100 pounds), race through city streets teeming with people. The photograph conveys the might of the bulls confronting the runners, enhanced by vibrant colors and intense facial expressions. Osés highlights the contrast of the bulls against the gray pavement, accentuating the tension of the pack sweeping away runners.

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