How to Photograph a Ski Event: Pro Tips & Lessons from Alpine Ski Club

How to Photograph a Ski Event: Tips from My Alpine Ski Club Experience

Capturing a ski event is an adrenaline rush. The cold air, vibrant energy, and fast-paced action are all part of the experience. On March 7, 2019, I had the privilege of photographing a ski event at Alpine Ski Club in The Blue Mountains, one of my first major solo gigs. Recently leaving a multimedia company that focused on Toronto events, this was a true test of my skills as an independent photographer. The experience was both exciting and nerve-wracking, but also incredibly rewarding.

Preparing for a Ski Event Photoshoot

Proper preparation is key to successfully photographing a ski event. This job was especially meaningful because it was my first time handling everything from pitching my rate to delivering high-quality photos entirely on my own. I got the gig thanks to a friend who connected me with the event organizer. From there, it was up to me to make sure everything went smoothly.

Communication & Planning

Weeks before the event, I established clear communication with the event manager. They provided me with a detailed shot list, and we discussed their timeline and specific expectations. This level of planning is essential for any ski event photography gig. Knowing the schedule and understanding what the client wants minimizes the risk of missing key moments.

Researching the Location

Since the event was up north, I couldn’t visit the location beforehand. Instead, I studied past event galleries available online, which gave me a good idea of the layout, lighting, and general vibe of Alpine Ski Club. This research helped me plan my shots and prepare the right gear for the conditions.

Capturing the Ski Event: Key Takeaways

The day of the event was perfect—bright and sunny, which made the skiing enjoyable and provided excellent natural light. The club itself featured beautiful floor-to-ceiling windows, ensuring the indoor areas were perfectly lit.

Equipment Tips

• Tripod Isn’t Always Practical: While I tried using a tripod, it quickly became clear that mobility was far more important. Being able to move from spot to spot quickly made all the difference.

• Use Gear Protection: Keeping a lens cap on when not shooting is essential in harsh outdoor conditions. Using a lens filter or polarizer also helps diffuse harsh sunlight and reduce glare, resulting in clearer, more vibrant images.

The event was non-stop action from start to finish, featuring skiing, alpacas, alcohol tastings, a silent auction, and much more. I was constantly on the move, capturing everything from candid interactions to high-energy activities. Time flew by as I dashed around the venue, making sure to capture every important moment.

Post-Event Workflow & Quick Turnaround

Fast turnaround is a crucial aspect of event photography. As soon as I got home, I started editing the highlight shots—about 20 to 30 images—to be sent out the next day. Event organizers often need these quickly for newsletters, thank-you emails, or social media. After delivering the highlights, I usually have about a week to finish editing the rest of the gallery, depending on the contract.

Tips for Photographing Ski Events

1. Communication is Key: Talk to the event organizer ahead of time to understand the schedule and requirements.

2. Research the Venue: If you can’t visit the location, study previous event photos and understand the layout.

3. Prepare for Lighting Challenges: Snow reflects a lot of light, so adjust your settings accordingly.

4. Use Proper Gear Protection: Keep a lens cap on when not shooting and use a lens filter or polarizer to reduce glare.

5. Capture Candid Moments: Spontaneous interactions can be just as memorable as the planned shots.

6. Stay Flexible: Events rarely go exactly as planned. Be ready to adapt and capture moments as they happen.

7. Avoid Over-Reliance on Tripods: While tripods are great for static shots, most ski events require mobility and flexibility.

   
   
   
   

Reflection

Photographing this ski event at Alpine Ski Club was a milestone for me. Handling the entire process—from planning and communication to shooting and editing—boosted my confidence and prepared me for bigger projects. If you're looking for someone to capture your next ski event or something just as exciting, reach out, and let’s make it happen!

Stay tuned for more photography tips and stories as I continue to share my journey.