Naz Hillmon, forward for the Atlanta Dream, is redefining downtime. While known for her skills on the basketball court, Hillmon has quietly cultivated a passion for photography, using it as a mental reset from the demands of professional sports. This isn’t just a hobby; it’s a strategic way to stay grounded amidst a relentlessly moving schedule.
From Film to Digital: A Growing Passion
Hillmon’s interest in photography dates back to her teenage years, documenting everything from AAU road trips to quiet morning moments. She took a high school photography class, learning the fundamentals of film development, but her dedication accelerated when her mother gifted her a digital camera about a year ago. Now, the camera is an essential travel companion, providing a much-needed escape during intense training and game schedules.
“It really does take my mind off of everything, because I’m thinking about the moment.” — Naz Hillmon
Photography as Mental Escape
The life of a professional athlete is all-consuming: endless practices, travel, and constant pressure to perform. Hillmon explains that before she took up photography seriously, downtime often meant isolation in hotel rooms. Now, with her camera in hand, she actively seeks out moments to explore cities, breathe fresh air, and disconnect from the game.
Her Instagram page, @nazgraphy_pics, showcases her work. She’s particularly drawn to architectural photography, capturing striking cityscapes.
Combining Passions: On and Off the Court
Hillmon recently combined her two worlds while playing for the Laces Basketball Club in the Unrivaled 3-on-3 league in Miami. She spent her offseason documenting days on South Beach and even photographing a game between Mist BC and Vinyl BC on January 25th. The Mist ultimately won, 76-71, and later secured the championship.
Hillmon admits that photographing a game is different from playing in one. She found herself struggling to follow the action while focusing on capturing the best shot, but she is already planning ways to improve her technique next time: more bench shots, more reactions, and a wider perspective.
This matters because it highlights how athletes are increasingly finding healthy ways to cope with the pressure of professional sports. Burnout is a real issue in high-performance environments, and hobbies like photography offer a vital mental escape. Hillmon’s example demonstrates that athletes aren’t just defined by their performance on the field; they’re multifaceted individuals with passions beyond their sport.
Hillmon’s approach is a reminder that athletes need more than just physical training. They also need outlets for mental and emotional well-being.
In the end, Naz Hillmon’s journey behind the lens is about finding balance, staying grounded, and proving that even the most driven athletes need a moment to slow down and see the world from a different perspective.
