Movie-Style Moments Meet Elite Athletic Performance: Photographer Michael Prengjoni Joins the 2026 National Scouting Combine Team

The National Scouting Combine is proud to welcome Photographer & Cinematic Creative Michael Prengjoni, known across social media as Movie Mike, to the official photography team for the 2026 National Scouting Combine at the Paradise Coast Sports Complex in Naples, Florida.

Prengjoni’s style is unmistakable—raw emotion, cinematic framing, and sports imagery that looks like it was pulled straight from a feature film. With a background that blends both photography and videography, Michael has built a reputation for transforming athletic moments into dramatic storytelling.

As he prepares to capture hundreds of draft-eligible and free-agent athletes this January, we sat down with him to understand the vision behind his work and what he hopes to bring to one of the most important evaluation stages in professional football.

“My goal is to make every photo feel like a movie scene.”

When asked what inspires his signature cinematic approach, Prengjoni explains that his passion for photography grew alongside his love for videography — but not the flashy transitions or over-the-top effects.

“My favorite part about videography is the cinematics… the emotions you can translate to the viewer through the lens. My vision is to make my photos appear as if they were screenshots from a movie scene, rather than just a photo.”

This philosophy has shaped his entire style: atmospheric, emotional, and rooted in storytelling.

The Eyes Tell the Story

Covering sports ranging from football to combat sports, Prengjoni focuses on one thing above all:

“It’s always in the eyes… victory, defeat, frustration, or joy. The most intense shots are defined by the emotion being portrayed in the athletes’ eyes.”

It’s why some of his best work is captured up close — where a single expression can say more than a highlight reel.

Excitement for Naples and the National Stage

As an athlete himself, shooting the National Scouting Combine carries special weight.

“It’s a great opportunity for me to get amazing shots, but it’s also a pleasure to see new upcoming talent. On a big stage, when athletes are giving it their all, you witness incredible plays and memorable performances.”

The combination of elite competition and cinematic storytelling is exactly where Prengjoni thrives.

Creating “Character Introductions” for the Next Generation

One of Michael’s trademarks is capturing portraits that feel like film character reveals — dramatic, intentional, and powerful.

“Not every athlete has the recognition they deserve. Sometimes a simple introduction of their face can lead to many new opportunities.”

In Naples, he aims to give athletes an image that becomes their first impression to scouts, coaches, and teams — a visual introduction into the next chapter of their careers.

The Signature Shot He Hopes to Capture

Every photographer has the moment they chase. For Michael, it’s something unexpected:

“In football, everyone loves the flashy offensive highlights — but I love an impressive defensive stop or a clutch moment from a player bringing pure intensity. Sports photos are the best when athletes bring the energy.”

He’ll be looking for that same electricity in Naples — the instant an athlete shows raw emotion, effort, and intensity.

South Florida Energy Meets Cinematic Vision

When asked what he wants people to feel when they see his work from the Combine, Prengjoni doesn’t hesitate:

“I want you to feel like you are there with the athlete. A picture is worth a thousand words, and I want mine to communicate passion, drive, and determination — all in a single still image.”

That bold South Florida atmosphere will only amplify his style as he documents the nation’s top emerging talent.

Follow Movie Mike

To see more of Michael’s cinematic sports photography and upcoming Combine coverage, follow him on Instagram:

📸 @_moviemike