Deep Winter Photo Challenge

I recently attended the Deep Winter Photo Challenge event here in Whistler. It basically boils down to a 3 day event where 6 of the most talented photographers around head out into the Whistler Blackcomb abyss and capture as many moments as possible. They then have to build the best shots into a 3-5 minute slideshow that we all get to watch at an epic Fairmont ballroom extravaganza. When you cram 1000+ snow junkies into a room with multiple bars and a visual orgy of winter imagery the vibe gets up there with a great concert of that band you love, or a standing ovation for the play you just saw. As the slideshows rolled and the well thought out music choices play, you cant help but cheer for the photos that really get you going and you identify with. It has really made me think about the power of a great photo and how its power can effect so many people in generally the same way. I say generally because there is no way I can assume that the way a photo makes me feel is the same way as it makes the person next to me feel. However if we both cheer and whistle because it encapsulates the essence of mountain life and why we are out here doing what we are doing then I feel like I am in the right place. This event has definitely got my creative juices flowing again and got me thinking about ideas and angles, stories and narratives, graphics and design, all things that I have lost a little sight with as I enjoy the winter day to day. Maybe there is something in enjoying such creatively on mass. Maybe art galleries should have a timetable and a matinee so we can all enjoy a group response. Maybe that is what cinema is all about (good cinema). Random Tangent but I hope you get the idea. The Deep Winter Photo Challenge is a great event and I will certainly attend next year and support it in any way I can. The teams clearly go though a massive amount of effort in the 3 days no matter what the conditions (hence Deep Winter) and their effort and creativity shine through to make a room full of addicts wooo and wwhheeyy, while walking away feeling inspired on multiple levels. At least I certainly did.

deep winter photo challenge

ESPN write up