2010-11 Upper Deck #158 – Dave Bolland

Awesome photography has practically defined Upper Deck hockey cards since they entered the market in 1990. For two decades, the set’s range of close-ups, candid moments and action photos has brought us closer to the game we all know and love.

But on their 2010-11 card of Blackhawks’ center Dave Bolland, Upper Deck chose a photo that daringly moved a few steps back–taking us from being in the game, and putting us at the game instead.

It is being removed from the “on-ice” view that makes this card special.The poor composition makes the photo look like it was hastily snapped by a spectator with a cell phone camera. We see things from the fans’ perspective, as the picture was taken at least several rows back from the glass, in the midst of the United Center crowed. Our view of Bolland, through the glass, is partially obstructed by the stanchions and the outstretched arms of ‘Hawks fans.

We feel like we are there, celebrating Bolland’s goal with the other Blackhawks’ fans.

In using a less-than-ideal photo, Upper Deck made this moment feel all the more real.

Bolland scored 3 goals and 3 assists in the 2010 Stanley Cup Finals. This picture was taken seconds after he scored in Game 5. Here is video of that goal.

Author: Sal Barry

Sal Barry is the editor and webmaster of Puck Junk. He is a freelance hockey writer, college professor and terrible hockey player. Follow him on Twitter @puckjunk View all posts by Sal Barry