Great stuff Coach, I mean Ump. Gives us all a lot to discuss.
I looked long and hard at that 1st picture, at the catchers knees, the catchers glove, the batters knees, and the ball. Trying to line it all up from a 2d perspective and I figured ball. Looking now at the 2nd picture, where he caught it and how far back he was, it was a good call. Maybe just a little low.
My GD's have three loops in the back. I'm very aware of these loops. At least three times this season, I have told a partner that he has missed one of the three loops. I've gotten into the habit of reaching back there and checking it. (mine not his)