📷 A view inside WM Phoenix Open

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Fri Feb 7 2025

Kara Edgerson | Manager of Digital Operations

Hey readers,

For more than four decades, Republic photographer Rob Schumacherhas had a front-row seat to the evolution of the WM Phoenix Open — long before it became what it is today. When he first covered the tournament in 1981, it was a much smaller affair at Phoenix Country Club, where golf legends like Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus played in an intimate setting.

Fast forward to today, and the event in Scottsdale feels more like a festival than a golf tournament, with record-breaking crowds and the raucous energy of the 16th hole. For Rob, that means navigating a much different course — literally and figuratively — to capture the perfect shot.

This week, I spoke with Rob about what it’s been like to document this transformation and the moments that have stuck with him the most, including one of Phil Mickelson’s most touching career highlights.

Here’s what he had to say:

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Learning the shortcuts

You’ve been covering the WM Phoenix Open for a long time. Do you remember your first year photographing the event? How has it changed over the years, both from a photographer’s perspective and in terms of the tournament itself?

My first year covering the Phoenix Open (Phoenix Country Club) was in 1981. The years at PCC had a small-town feel, and Hollywood stars played in the Pro-Am. Spectators enjoyed watching Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Lee Trevino in an intimate setting.

The difference between my first years and the current tournament is a comparison with Smallville, Kansas, and Metropolis.

The epic crowd numbers make it difficult to move around the course for the photographers. But over the years, the photographers have identified shortcuts through the course.

‘My goal is to not get beer poured on my camera gear’

The 16th hole is legendary for its atmosphere. What’s it like capturing the energy of that crowd, and do you have a favorite or most memorable shot from that spot?

The 16th offers a lot of photographic options. The Par-3 hole is surrounded by corporate skyboxes and grandstands. My goal is to not get beer poured on my camera gear. The caddie races can make great images at sixteen.

Phil Mickelson is hugged by his daughters Sophia and Amanda (left) on the 18th green after winning the FBR Open at the TPC of Scottsdale on Feb. 6, 2005. Mickelson fired a 3-under-par 68 during his final round of the FBR Open in Scottsdale.

Rob Schumacher/The Republic

The greatest challenge

What’s the biggest challenge in photographing an event like this, and what’s your approach to getting the best shots — whether it’s of the golfers, the fans, or the unique moments that make this tournament stand out?

I try to feature the players, fans and the course under the best possible light from the most interesting positions. Knowing where to be and when is my greatest challenge.

My favorite image was from 2005, Phil Mickelson’s two small daughters ran onto the green for hugs after their dad won the Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale.

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📷 A view inside WM Phoenix Open

📷 A view inside WM Phoenix Open

Your Week with AZCentral

Kara Edgerson | Manager of Digital Operations

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‘My goal is to not get beer poured on my camera gear’

The greatest challenge

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Sign up for the news you want

Like this:

📷 A view inside WM Phoenix Open

📷 A view inside WM Phoenix Open

Your Week with AZCentral

Kara Edgerson | Manager of Digital Operations

Learning the shortcuts

‘My goal is to not get beer poured on my camera gear’

The greatest challenge

‘It’s the rich people’s Open’: High prices tee off fans at Phoenix Open

How Trump’s buyout of federal workers may impact Arizona

Why are sunsets prettier in Arizona? Here’s the science

You may be missing out on a huge tax credit. Here’s why

See how Peoria has grown over the years

Essential restaurants: 100 places to dine in 2025

Sign up for the news you want

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