Jonathan Mensah has moved from the pitch to behind the camera.
The former Ghana international, who earned more than 70 caps for the Black Stars and captained Columbus Crew to the 2020 MLS Cup, is now working as a professional photographer under the brand JM Photography. Recent images of him on assignment at football venues triggered online criticism, with one user describing the shift as a “big downgrade.”
Supporters responded that the long-time hobby represents personal fulfillment rather than failure. They noted that many athletes face difficult transitions after retirement and that Mensah’s choice reflects a deliberate decision to remain connected to the sport in a new capacity. The critic later issued a public apology, acknowledging a lack of understanding of the situation.
Mensah’s interest in photography developed during his playing years, particularly while based in Major League Soccer. After retiring from professional football he formalized the pursuit, establishing JM Photography in the United States. His stated aim includes covering major tournaments, with the 2026 FIFA World Cup listed among his targets.
The former centre-back represented Ghana at the 2010 and 2014 World Cups and also featured at youth level, including the FIFA U-20 World Cup. At club level he spent several seasons with Columbus Crew, where he served as captain during the 2020 title-winning campaign. Those experiences now inform his work as a photographer, giving him an insider perspective on the emotions and intensity of match days.
Public discussion around his career change has mixed criticism with defence. Some comments framed the move from high-profile professional football to photography as a reduction in status. Others rejected that framing, arguing that a second career built on skill and interest should not be measured solely against previous earnings or visibility. Media personality Nana Aba Anamoah publicly criticised the “downgrade” characterisation, describing the comparison as unnecessary.
Mensah has not issued an extensive personal response to the online debate. His professional activity continues through JM Photography, with recent assignments including coverage of international friendlies. The work focuses on capturing moments of tension, celebration and concentration that define elite sport.
The transition fits a broader pattern among retired athletes who remain involved in football through media, coaching, analysis or creative roles. Mensah’s route prioritises visual storytelling. By operating his own photography brand he controls the direction of the work and the subjects he chooses to document.
His playing career provided sustained exposure to the highest levels of the game. That background supplies context that many photographers without elite playing experience do not possess. The combination of technical camera skill and first-hand knowledge of professional environments forms the basis of his current practice.
