Photographer Michael Hebert is the Saints Hall of Famer most don’t know

NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) – Six years ago, the New Orleans Saints Hall of Fame proudly opened its doors to three distinguished individuals, solidifying their places in the hearts of Saints fans everywhere. Lance Moore and Pierre Thomas, household names among Saints faithful, were among the inductees. The third member, Michael Hebert, may not be as widely known to the public, but his impact on the team is undeniable.

Hebert, a Louisiana native, has been intimately involved with the Saints for decades, chronicling the team’s journey through his lens as its Director of Photography for the past 26 years. His story is one of dedication and passion, rooted in his upbringing in New Orleans and fueled by his love for football.

“Football is my first love,” he said. “And shooting football? Oh, there’s an intimacy to paying attention to all those little things that the players see.”

New Orleans Saints owner Gayle Benson talks with team photographer Michael Hebert before an... — New Orleans Saints owner Gayle Benson talks with team photographer Michael Hebert before an NFL preseason football game against the Houston Texans in New Orleans, Sunday, Aug. 27, 2023. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)(Gerald Herbert | AP)

From his early days attending games with his father at Tulane Stadium to capturing iconic moments like Tracy Porter’s pick-six in Super Bowl 44, Hebert’s work behind the camera has immortalized the highs and lows of Saints history. His keen eye and impeccable timing have allowed him to seize pivotal moments, whether it be on the field during a game or behind closed doors during team meetings.

“You got to be lucky,” he said.

One of his most iconic photos — Tracy Porter’s pick-six of Payton Manning in Super Bowl 44 — happened because Hebert was in the right place at the right time.

“I was sitting in the meeting room by myself and the doors open and the defensive backs came in,” he explained. “They spent about 25 minutes going over the one play, down and distance formation, that Tracy Porter intercepted that ball and ran it back for a touchdown.”

“As soon as I looked up, because every play I’m looking at down and distance first formation, I reach back for the longest lens I had and I locked up on Tracy Porter because he took that little step over and it was like slow motion for me.”

New Orleans Saints owner Tom Benson and his wife Gayle Benson talk with team photographer... — New Orleans Saints owner Tom Benson and his wife Gayle Benson talk with team photographer Michael Hebert before an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens in New Orleans, Thursday, Sept. 1, 2016. (AP Photo/Bill Feig)(Bill Feig | AP)

But Hebert’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Personal trials, including his daughter’s battle with cancer, have tested his resolve. Yet, through it all, he remains steadfast in his commitment to his family and his craft.

“I had to pick all the photographs for Will Smith’s Memorial at the facility. It wasn’t easy. When I walked in that day, I was just so emotional. I couldn’t stop crying. And for Mr. Benson’s funeral, I had to photograph his funeral,” he recalled.

“[Mr. Benson] treated my like a grandson. I worked for him for a long time and have some unbelievable stories with him. Yet, standing two feet from his casket with a wide angle lens when they pop that American flag… I couldn’t do it anymore.”

For Hebert, football isn’t just a game—it’s a platform for making a difference. Through his photography, he seeks to inspire and uplift others, demonstrating that true impact transcends the boundaries of the gridiron.

“I always wondered, why am I so lucky, there are guys that work their whole lives and never get the opportunities I’ve been given. That’s why when Brittany got sick, it all became crystal clear. It was what I was going to be able to do to help others. And I say that humbly. It’s not about me. And as I’ve told people, you don’t need to wear a jersey to make a difference. I had been given an opportunity to help make a difference in others’ lives. And that’s the thing I’m most proud of,” he said.