Photographing A Photographer

I don't know how it is in other art forms, but as a photographer I've noticed there can often be a sort of unspoken turf war between photographers that keeps us from being friends or sharing ideas. I don't like this approach and instead I find it very educational and inspirational to work with other photographers and share ideas. I also prefer to have a few friends with similar interests to my own.

Jay Dash is a phenomenal landscape and snow sports photographer. After starting work with him two years ago at a ski resort, I quickly noticed that he was one of those photographers that dedicated a significant amount of time and effort to chasing good light. Nearly every time he went out he came back with a more spectacular landscape image than the last. And if he didn't come back with something spectacular he took good note of why and went back later with more determination. 

Since then I've been lucky to tag along on many trips chasing light with him. He will often even ask for my advice and feedback on his images. But the wisest thing for me to do is watch and take good notes of what he does to capture such great landscape images. I have to say much of my landscape work of the last two years is a result of not just listening to my own advice but being open to what he has to offer.

As I said, it's always good to work with other photographers, especially when they agree to spend some time in front of your lens. It's a great opportunity to pick each other's brain and learn from each other. But mostly it's just a lot of fun building ideas off each other and coming up with some cool stuff...and good laughs.

The image above was made as part of a project Jay is working on that builds on a concept gleaned from yet another photographer. I'm looking forward to seeing his finished product and I'm glad to be part of the effort. In the mean time we had a lot of fun during our recent photo shoot at Provo Studio and I even have a fun new picture of myself thanks to trading time in front of the lens with Jay.

Photo by Jay Dash