Red Bull is not only at the forefront of jaw-dropping stunts but they are also exceptionally good at capitalizing on the hype. This has made their brand one of the most recognized in the world and synonymous with outdoor and adventure photography.
Table of Contents
What is Adventure Photography?What is Outdoor Photography?What it Takes to do Adventure/Outdoor PhotographyWhat Skills do You Need?Getting HiredEditorial Adventure PhotographyOn AssignmentConclusion and Key Considerations
Their global magazine, The Red Bulletin, and the Red Bull Illume Award for adventure photography are amongst the most respected in the world. But this specialty is not just about newsworthy daredevil stunts. Since the pandemic, the business has been booming for outdoor brands. Even companies like Apple are trying to get in on the outdoor trend. Many photos selected for Apple’s “Shot on iPhone” challenge fall into travel and adventure photography categories.
What is Adventure Photography?
Adventure photography picks up where lifestyle photography leaves off, showing people involved in extreme sports or other rigorous outdoor activities. It demonstrates the photographer’s ability to tackle remote locations and/or adrenaline-fueled action.
What is Outdoor Photography?
Outdoor photography includes hunting, fishing, camping, and hiking. Either one can be highly-produced or more journalistic in approach.
What it Takes to do Adventure/Outdoor Photography
The one thing all three photographers we interviewed for this article have in common is an obsession with the outdoors. In this specialty, being able to get to a location and keeping up with professional athletes is a vital requirement of the job. Will Saunders, the overall winner of Redbull Illume’s 2021 photo contest, says you need a certain grit to be in this industry: Philadelphia-based adventure photographer Steve Boyle says that you need to be a part of the lifestyle and be able to get to where the action is: This is why adventure photography is highly specialized. Telford, England-based adventure photographer Ross Woodhall says,
What Skills do You Need?
Even more so than other photography, adventure and outdoor photographers need to know their cameras inside out. They must be able to use it almost instinctively while dangling from a rope or riding on horseback. The Ketchum, Idaho-based outdoor and adventure photographer Hillary Maybery says, But it’s not just the photography you have to worry about. Steve says, His pro tip is to make sure his equipment stays dry in the rain:
Getting Hired
In a very niche field – for example, free climbing or base jumping – it’s often about being plugged into the community, knowing the athletes, and being able to get access. This can give photographers an advantage as they have an exclusive shot or story to offer. However, you still need to be able to build relationships with clients, such as outdoor brands, adventure holiday companies, or advertising agencies. Being proactive also helps. Salt Lake City adventure photographer Keith Fearnow decided to do a self-assigned project with three trail-running friends in the desert. His friends were ambassadors for an outdoor brand, so he offered the photos he had taken to this brand. This prompted the company to commission him for several shots. Will also recommends building a strong relationship with your producer: The first person I hire on a job is a producer. I can’t do a job without one, they are the most helpful part of any shoot from pre-pro to post. The producer and I work on building budgets, realistic location options, and building out the crew.
Editorial Adventure Photography
Most editorial photographers start off by offering projects they have already shot to editors. Once they are established, they may start pitching ideas or are even approached with a commission. Making a name for yourself in your field and building relationships with editors and clients is essential.
On Assignment
Of course, there are limitations to what can be done in terms of lighting, camera angles, and set-ups when it comes to outdoor and adventure photography, given the remote locations and often fast-moving athletes. Frequently, the biggest challenge is to get the equipment to the site. So there are now more and more photographers who opt for mirrorless camera equipment. Mirrorless cameras are lighter and more compact than DSLRs. But, regardless of the camera equipment, knowing it like the back of your hand is crucial. Hillary says, A good backpack is very important! I only carry two lenses because of the weight and am able to move faster and cover more ground throughout the day. I use a chest pack to keep my camera accessible. When you have all your stuff in a backpack it takes time to get your camera out and at the ready each time you need it.
Conclusion and Key Considerations
Photography can be a very competitive field. But, being able to access remote outdoor spaces is not just exciting for photographers who are keen adventurers but also allows them to build relationships and pitch exclusive ideas. Or, in Ross’ words, “Photograph what you love doing, and you won’t go wrong.”
About the Author
Sonia Klug is an inquisitive writer specializing in writing about digital technology and is fluent in three languages. Other than working as a writer at Wonderful Machine, she also contributes to The Independent and various print magazines. You can learn more about Sonia on her website and connect with her via LinkedIn. This article was originally published here and shared with permission.
