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Featured Photographer - Jonathan Cracroft

J Dogg — Tue, 13 Mar 2007 01:04:27 -0400

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It's time to sneak behind the lense again, and pick the brain of emerging photographer Jonathan Cracroft straight outta the SLC. Plus of course a sampling of his photos...
Interview by Jamie Bond

Name: Jonathan Cracroft

Hometown: Salt Lake City, UT - USA

Camera: Nikon - D200 & D2X

Favourite Icecream flavour: Vanilla Bean

Digital or oldskool: Digi - but still love film.

Website: www.jonathancracroft.com

So Jon, how'd you get into photography? Since I can remember I was always fascinated by camera and technology in photography. I borrowed my grandfathers old Mamiya film camera and started playing around with light, contrast, color, B&W, speed, and all the fun experimental aspects of photography. I loved the freedom and creativity that photography allowed. After playing around with the camera a little I jumped on the opportunity of a photo class offered in high school and began my official education in photography. I continued taking classes in advanced photography, experimental photography, color, black and white, digital, and media application. I continue to learn more about the dynamics of the technology and art each time I go out for a shoot.

You seem to travel alot. A medium for photography or is photography a bi-product? It's always been a good excuse to begin a new adventure, whether near or far, I enjoy photography and traveling. The two activities compliment each other well. Shooting in new places is always exciting for me, it sparks a sense of adventure and discovery. I've been very fortunate to join with various groups for service projects, family vacations, and work and have traveled to some very beautiful places. Among some of my most memorable are Slovakia, Hungary, Czech Republic, Poland, Germany, Switzerland, France, Italy, Belize, Mexico, and Hawaii. I hope to travel to all 7 continents and as many countries as possible.

I spotted Argentina was missing from the list of places you've been. Have you been living in a cave or just not had the chance to head down? It's sooooooooo rad. Funny you should mention. Argentina has been on my list for a long time. I have two close friends that live in the country and love to talk about their adventures. I've read how amazing the terrain, culture and experiences are there. Argentina and Peru are next on my destination list and I hope to get there in the next year or two. Hopefully I can get down while the skiing in good!

With all your sports photography you obviously hit some sports yourself. What sports floats your boat? I really enjoy individual extreme sports, even though I grew up playing team sports. I played soccer for a couple years when I was like 5 and 6. I loved baseball the most and played up until high school. I played a year of water polo, a year of high-school basketball, three years of high-school football (including a state championship) and my senior year I played lacrosse. Team sports taught me a lot about my self and how to work together to accomplish a common goal.

Growing up I always loved riding my bike. I had a bmx when I was 5, and I loved to race that through the neighbor hood. For my tenth birthday I got my first mountain bike. In college I began racing and in my third year I started to see some potential future in professional racing. I was climbing the ranks and finishing higher that I ever had before. I got a little too confident and ended up in the hospital with a fractured cervical vertebrae. After surgery (a titanium plate and 4 screws) I began training again, determined not to let the accident get me down. I sold the mountain bike and traded it in for my first road bike, a black Cervelo Soloist ( I love it). I started swimming and running and have completed nearly a dozen triathlons now. I feel nearly 100% with the exception of an occasional reminder when I'm pushing it hard while climbing or skiing.

You based in SLC again this winter? How's it been going? Getting the goods? Photos? I'm back in SLC this year. I love the terrain here and it a nice place to travel out off with Colorado next door and Jackson Hole and Targee not too far to the North. I'm planning on traveling these places and hopefully Tahoe, Taos, Whistler and a very slim chance, but I'll mention it...Alaska.

My token question, if you could gain secret access with a camera to any event, phenomenon or situation, real or mythical, what would it be? I would have loved to witness the creation of the earth. Every time I camp out under a dark sky, when you can see all the starts, I can't help but ponder what I would have been like to have witnessed the creation of earth. This is a fascinating place, intricate, dynamic and full of life and beauty. I believe that all that is good existed during the creation of the earth, what we have now is what man managed not to destroy.

Any advice on budding young photgraphers, or do you still consider yourself just such a newbie in need of wisdom and advice? I still see myself as a young photographer. I still have a lot to learn. If there is any advice I could give based on what I know now, it would be find a mentor, get out and shoot every extra minute you can and don't be afraid to take chances.

Any thanks? I have a lot to be thankful for. My photo teachers, Miss Frascotti, Mr. Badley, and Mr. Siciliano. My parents who have always supported my photography. My grandfather, for his willingness to loan me his cameras. My close friend Nick Gilson, for teaching me so much about photography, his ability to inspire and the vast amount of knowledge he's shared with me. Pictureline photography in Salt Lake City for their support and great service. Replicolor

More of Jon's work at www.jonathancracroft.com

Pro Photographer Profile - Mathew Scholl

J Dogg — Sun, 04 Feb 2007 14:38:30 -0500

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Mathew Scholl is a red head but I've actually never heard him raise his voice. Mostly he's just smiling and laughing while telling you one of his many random facts. I think that I can stump him though... Interview by Leif Zapf-Gilje
What's the average wing span of an African swallow tail?
I didn't know there was an "African swallow tail".

Yeah, I don't know either. I just made that up. OK I'll be more serious. Let's go through some Mathew Scholl factoids....

Born? Nelson BC 1972 (when and where)The last good book you read? Under The Banner Of Heaven by, Jon Krakauer
A favorite random fact? A liger is the offspring of a male lion and a female tiger. They can grow up to 1200 lbs. To fact check this, watch the movie Napoleon Dynamite.

All right enough of those...
Why are you pulling out the skis more than the snowboard these days?
I really Enjoy being challenged. I felt like I had to do really scary shit on a snowboard to be challenged. Learning to ski has allowed me to step back and take it easy. It has made Shredding a mellow powder slope, exciting again. I do not think one tool is better then the other though. I can have a great day on either one.
Does it make you feel different to be part American and living in Canada, or has Harper changed that?
Being a dual citizen is helpful. It means I do not have to lie at the boarder when I go to the States on photo assignments. I think Harper has made all Canadians feel like we are almost Americans.

Currently residing? Nelson BC

Top three reason for living there? Friends, Community, The life Style

First camera? Pentax K1000

First published photo? Cover of a small Canadian cycling magazine called Pedal

Favorite thing about photography? I love how it slows everything down. Everyone is in such a rush these days. To take photographs I have to slow down and look at the fine details. A ski run that might normally last 30 seconds, may last several hours if I'm shooting.

Do you think that you'll ever feel old?
I hope so. i like the idea of getting old. I hope to live a long and happy life. It will be a lot of fun to be 90 and sit on the porch listening to CBC. I wont be one of those people getting plastic surgery so that I look younger.

Why do you live in Nelson?
The people, the good times

Why do you take photos?
I do not know.......It just happened that way.

The digital question?
I do not see digital as a photograph. A photograph has a hard copy. Digital is simply an image. Just the same as painting in Adobe Illustrator is not the same as using brushes and a canvases. The Mona Lisa could never have been created on a computer. Ansel Adams' photographs will always be better then any digital image.
If you could somehow instantaneously transform your skill and knowledge of photography into skill and knowledge of something else...?
Yes, I would like to spell words like, instantaneously, without having to spell check them 4 times.

What are you dreaming about when you talk in your sleep?
Mostly, my past lives and weird shit like that.

How much velvia 50 did you buy when you found out they were replacing it with a 100 speed film?
I bought 150 rolls. For me, it is about a year supply. For some guys that is a week supply of film.

One piece of advice for up-and-coming photographers?
Take a B+W course.Learn to take a real photograph. Forget about the whole digital scene for a while.

The dumbest thing you ever did with a camera?
I had my camera fall out of my pack and break on some stairs. I taped the thing back together and used it for a couple more years. Duct tape is great shit.

Thank yous/ shout outs/ mission statements...?
I just want to thank you, Leif. Your the best...

El Palo: The Stick

J Dogg — Mon, 24 Jul 2006 22:27:29 -0400

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Story and Photos by Holly Walker

"The apple doesn't fall far from the tree," so the old proverb goes. The expression in Argentina: "De Tal palo tal astilla." Rough translation: "The sliver comes from the stick."

In the case of Argentinean big mountain freeskier, Huere Darquier, it couldn't be truer...

Lia Darquier (goes by Huere, that's Waaay-Raaay if you were wondering) was born in the town of San Carlos de Bariloche in the Patagonia region of Argentina. If you haven't had the chance to visit the 'Switzerland' of South America, you should. It is home to beautiful lakes, forests, awesome skiing, a charming town and lots of tasty chocolates.

The forth of five children, Huere was born into a family of skiers. Every member of her family has worked/works for the local ski resort Catedral Alta Patagonia. Her father, originally a successful graphic artist in Buenos Aires, moved from the big capital city to the countryside of Bariloche to raise his family. After years as a gondola technician during the Argentinean summer in Andorra, Manuel semi-retired. He continues to work at Catedral Alta Patagonia (Alta) in the ski rental shop and can help you pick out the right pair of skis before heading to your lesson with his ski instructor wife Lia. With over 30 years of experience as both a mother and ski instructor, she knows a thing or two about raising ripping skier kids.

Huere's eldest sister Delfina, a retired competitive big mountain skier, teaches skiing in Beaver Creek, Colorado. In 1997 and 1998 she was ranked 9^th on the World Tour and in 2000 she was declared the South American Freeskiing Champion. Huere's eldest brother Joaquin also teaches at Beaver Creek and with Delfina teaches Level 1 and 2 certification courses for the International Ski Instructors Association in Bariloche. 'Joaco' was famous back in 1994 when he was the cover boy for an English publication by the Daily Mail called 'Ski Magazine.'

Huere's elder brother Diego, like the rest of his siblings, was also a ski instructor in Andorra during the off-season before throwing in the name tag to raise his own family of future rippers. Huere's younger sister Lula continues to teach at Alta. Like Huere, during South American summers, she comes to Whistler to teach an array of Spanish speaking clients - from Dominican Republic to Mexico to Spain. Don't get me started on the cousins.

At the end of September this last year I had the opportunity to head down to Bariloche from Las Lenas and finish off an epic season by skiing corn in the sun at Catedral Alta Patagonia. After a 24 hour bus ride and three transfers later, non-other than, you guessed it, Huere Darquier picked me up to take me to her parents home. After 5 days of Argentinean hospitality and too many chocolate shops, I had a belly ache. However, I also discovered the importance of the families, the 'astillas' like the Darquiers, that make up the 'palo' that is Catedral Alta Patagonia.

DETAILS

The historic town of San Carlos de Bariloche is located in the heart of Patagonia. Bariloche is a year round tourist destination and popular for skiing and snowboarding at the local ski resort Catedral Alta Patagonia. Catedral Alta Patagonia opens for the season Saturday, June 17, 2006. For information on Bariloche and Catedral Alta Patagonia check out:

Resort Website
Argentina Tourism
SouthAmericaSki.com Travel Planning

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Holly Walker is sponsored by Dynastar/Look/Lange, Icebreaker, Smith, Giro and Gordini. In the off-season she enjoys playing wiffle golf and floating in her inner tube on Alta Lake.

Featured Photographer - Drew Stoecklein

J Dogg — Fri, 31 Mar 2006 00:00:00 -0500

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Posted March 31, 2006 by Holly Walker

Originally from Sun Valley, Idaho, this freeskier turned photographer turned actor is possibly one of the industry's most dynamic members. With Drew's busy schedule, it was difficult to pin him down for an interview at his own home in Salt Lake City, Utah. But we did it...

This past winter I lived at the mouth of Little Cotton Wood Canyon, at 'La Casa de la Shred Gnar,' a short drive from Snowbird and Alta. There were many many visitors (probably why the house is also referred to as 'The Hostel for Laggard Skiers') and several regulars, including freeskiers Billy Poole, Lindsey McIntyre, Brady Smedsrud, Cody Barnhill, Joey Smallwood, Rachel Burkes, Justin Modroo and none other than Drew Stoecklein.

Of my roommates, Drew Stoecklein was the scarcest; the first to leave in the morning and the last to come home at night. Between working, road tripping, killing it at freeskiing comps, shooting enormous road gaps, editing photos, keeping sponsors happy, acting for a Hollywood film and hanging out with the crew, Drew has had one busy winter. I finally got him to sit still for a couple minutes at 'La Casa de la Shred Gnar' to discover more about this young, dedicated and hardworking freeskier/photographer.

DREW STOECKLEIN INTERVIEW

Name: Drew Stoecklein

Sponsors: Alta Ski-Area, Columbia Sportswear, Platinum Performance-Energy bar, the Royal Shaft-Ski Poles, Smith Sport Optics, Spacecraft Hats, Swany-Gloves

Living: In SL,UT

Grew up skiing: Sun Valley Ski Team

Binoculars or magnifying glass? Magnifying Glass

Snowbird or Alta? Alta

Starlets or Cowgirls? Cowgirls

Q1: So Drew, you are both a big mountain ripper and aspiring photographer...do you spend more time in front or behind the lens?

A1: I have been trying to keep an equal balance between skiing and taking photos this year.

Q2. What influenced you in becoming a photographer?

A2: My dad influenced me to become a photographer 6 years ago when I shattered my tibia and fibula skiing.

Q3. Sounds like you've been making trips with buddies around Utah, Colorado and Idaho, what have you got up your sleeve?

A3: Well as it stands plan B would be to giv'er.

Q4. What's this "Levitation Project" thing you've been working on?

A4: The Levitation Project is a two year film project/movement (film, still pictures & a clothing company that includes freehealers, Snowboarders, and skiers). The movie comes out in fall of '07. On April 1st the three still photographers for the Levitation Project (Bob Plum, Will Wissman, and I) are having a slideshow at the Depo downtown Salt Lake City. We will be displaying our best shots that we have taken this year. At the end we are going to have a raffle and hand out a bunch of ski/snowboard gear.

Q5. Rumor has it you killed it and came 4th in Snowbird at the U.S. Freeskiing Championships, tell us what happened? How long have you been competing?

A5: At Snowbird this year I decided to ski a ripping line with airs that I knew that I could stomp in between my turns, it worked out pretty well for me. I started competing three years ago.

Q6. You're currently ranked 7th on the IFSA World Tour, are you planning to compete more this season? Kirkwood?

A6: Right now I can't make it to the last competitions because of 'Deep Winter' a Ski and Snowboard film that I'm working for. I'm working on it to make money to go to Alaska.

Q7. Stunt double! How did you land that gig?

A7: My friend Nico the Team manager of the Levitation Project got a phone call when we where on top of a peak in the Utah backcountry. I happened to meet the criteria to be a stunt double for the movie.

Q8. Name three differences between Hollywood stars and ski bums.

A8: Gaper Gaps, Girls, and Goggle Tans

Q9. Any other plans this season? You mentioned Alaska?

A9: I plan on going to Alaska for two weeks in April.

Q10: Any shout outs? Homies in the 801?

I would like to give a shout out to The Casa de la Shred Gnar and the LCCC (Little Cottonwood Canyon Crew).

Q11: Word.

Author Holly Walker is sponsored by Dynastar/Look/Lange, Icebreaker, Smith, Giro, Gordini, www.SouthAmericaSki.com. She enjoys working on her goggle tan on the Snowbird tram deck while dreaming of exotic destinations.

Ryan Oakden Interview

J Dogg — Sun, 12 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0500

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Name: Ryan Oakden
Sponsors: Smith, Sessions Outerwear, 4FRNT SKIS, CFR,
Grew up Skiing: in Fernie B.C.
Belgian Waffles or Belgian Beer: I love waffles and I love beer this decision should not be made they are equally enjoyable at the same time.
Blackcomb or Whistler: Blackcomb.
Skiing the Poop Chutes or shooting poo: Skiing the poopchutes is what I am doing today.
Potato guns or potato farming: I like pemberton and all but there is nothing like the smell of hairspray to get the blood flowing

So Ryan, you were an interior boy originally, what brought you out to Whistler? 80's night at Tommy's?
Totally, my man Seamus hooks me up at the front door.

I've seen you on more than a few epic ski days this winter, how's winter been treating you?
I have skied more powder days this year so far then the entire winter of 04/05.

Had any trips up to your pad in Bralorne yet this season? Or is that just your global warming retirment plan?
Definitely been up to the Lorne a lot this year the steak sandy at the claimjumper keeps me coming back.

And it looks like you've got a new sponsor, or just poached somebody's skis. Why the jump to 4Front, and how're those boards for shredding the gnar?
4FRNT is probably the best decision I have made in skiing. The skis that they are making are super solid and way out perform the othe crap brand I was skiing on before.

Last year you scored big with a killer segment in TGR's Soul Purpose, stomping those backflips like it was nobody's business. Any plans to hook up with those boyz again this year, or other film gigs?
Actually Jamie it was Tangerine Dream that I have a segment with. This year I am working to get as much done as possible and ski as many powder days as I can.

I'm such a retard. I put on the film premiere and can't even remember what it was called. Anwyho, any crazy goals for the rest of the season?
Well I just like to go with the flow and when i see something i like I do it I dont like to make Insane goals ecause you know what the say about the best laid plans.

If you had to choose between one epic, 60cm fluffy pow day on Blackcomb or an unlimited lifetime supply of Timbits, what would it be?
Sorry Tim but 60cm days come around once a life time. Squamish is like 45 minute drive with a Wendys and Tim Hortons. Timbits are really quite affordable.

If you could stick snow to any feature in the world and ski down it, what would it be?
I bet the pyramids in Egypt would have epic pillow lines for sure the pyramids.

Any shouts out?
All my friends around B.C. and my family, we live in the best place on earth. B.C.

For video segments and more studly Oakden photos by Bryn Hughes, Adam Clark, Wade Mckoy and others, check out www.ryanoakden.com

Featured Photographer - Jordan Manley

J Dogg — Wed, 19 Oct 2005 00:00:00 -0400

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Posted Oct 19, 2005

Name: Jordan Manley

Place you call home: Deep Cove, North Vancouver, BC

Place you want to call home: A North Van - Whistler Partnership is ideal. Never want to leave.

Favourite Colour: I was on the green team in elementary school, but secretly I wanted to be with blue.

Favourite waffle topping: Don't dig the Belgium delight too much, but strawberries and whip cream.

Fish Tacos or taco'd wheels: Both sound like a bad ending to any adventure.

First Camera: My Dad's pentax spotmatic.

So Jordan, I've seen some pretty sweet images come out of your camera. Is this a hobby or your main gig?

Well, over the last couple years I've developed a fierce love and commitment of photography. This past year I quit my job, and have been mainly supporting myselff off of photography.

What is it that gets you so stoked on photography? We're guessing it's not for the mad chicks and huge cash-grabs, care to enlighten us?

Since a kid I've always enjoyed the arts: drawing, painting etc. But, in reality, photography developed out of the sports I participate in, namely, biking and skiing, and an outdoor lifestyle. At first a camera was just a documentation tool, to capture my friends riding bikes and skis. More and more though I've tried to merge art and photojournalism. I love being able to bring out what might be missed- sometimes the magic only lasts for a split second. I love having the power to shape an image through perspective, capturing something on film that might not be seen by someone watching.

Do you do any video work as well, or is that for chumps?

No it's cool. Actually, video used to be my main thing. I did a big epic video shoot yesterday in fact! But, I've never shot much skiing, it's always been mountain biking for some reason. I've shot a few segments for MTB films- 'Rise', 'Halfway to Nowhere', and an upcoming movie 'My Backyard'. I have aspirations of a life of cinematography mixed with photography. It's pretty hard to compare the two mediums, but there are things that I love about operating both still and motion picture cams.

We've been on ski trips with you, but you have plenty of cultural/travel/bike photos as well. What's your main passion? Don't worry, we won't laugh at you if you don't say skiing. Well, maybe.

Ski photography is my main passion. Two reasons: One, I have a love affair with skiing- two, ski images are very strong, and clean. I love the simplicity of the alpine snowscape. Within skiing, my passion is always shooting powder- theres nothing better than skiing deep blower, and theres nothing better than getting that moment on film. I'm never as stoked as when I know the skier has done their job, and I've done mine.

Any exciting photography plans coming up for the fall or winter?

This fall, I'll be shooting mountain biking on the shore on foggy days, and hopefully some epics in the chilcotins on the sunny ones. I'm going back to college after a year off so that will hinder photo-operations slightly in the fall. This winter I'll be calling Whistler home base. I'm sure I'll be back down to Utah and out to the kootenays again like last season. My brother Les, and I, are thinking about a trip to ski some ancient biblical terrain (hint hint), but that's still in the preliminary planning stages. Other than that, we'll see where the storms take me.

You're stuck choosing one of two professions for the rest of eternity, which do you choose?... Shooting Vegas weddings or shooting catalogue photos for Zellers. Remember, Zellers sells lingerie.

Zellers for sure. You know I hate big box stores, but I hate vegas even more!

Your brother is up 'n coming pro skier Les Manley. That must be a pretty good match for ski photography eh?

For sure. We make a good team- he knows what's going to look good, and has the ability to make it happen. We try to do as much as we can together, but we're in different places a lot of the time. He went to France this year so we missed out shooting together throughout the winter a lot. Next year we'll get some great stuff on film though.

We have to ask this. If you could sneak a spy camera into any venue/location/event in space and time, where and when would you choose? You're on your own, so watch out for big dinosaur teeth. They might like Canadian bacon.

Wow. What a question. There are so many moments in the evolutionary history of the planet that would be amazing to see, including the big dinosaurs. This might be cliche but THE BIG BANG would be it. It's what started it all. Would there be skiing without the Big Bang? Nope.

Any thanks?

My Dad, for teaching me how to take pictures and letting me use all his equipment for a long time. Both my parents, for their support. All my friends/athletes who put up with my constant requests of "Can you hike up there? It's gonna be a sick shot!!!" followed by, "Okay, one more, can you hike it again!"

Click Here to See More of Jordan's Work

Christian Bjork Interview

J Dogg — Sun, 07 Aug 2005 00:00:00 -0400

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Photos by Martin Skogfalt & Johan Hellman

Name: Christian Bjork

Hometown: Lulea in the North of Sweden, where the sun never sets in summertime and the wild icebears wander the streets
Favourite Ski Area: Riksgransen in Sweden and La Grave in the Alps
Sponsors: Cross, Fischer, Weps and Sweet
Free-falling or free-balling: Hmm tricky question, but falling free is always nice
High heels or banana peels, whatever that means: I'm not that much into high heels.. hehe so let's go for the banana peels whatever that is.
Big mountains or big air: Big mountains of course. The bigger the better.

So tell us Christian, is there really such thing as the Swedish Bikini Team?
Of course there is. You've seen it in the movies so there must be one.. And all the girls are blond, have big breasts, are named Inga and speak English with a German accent.

Speaking of Swedish people, you've spent the last few winters in Engelberg, Switzerland? Do they have really good meatballs there, or why are Swedes the only people who spend a season there? Tell us what we are we all missing?
This was actually my first winter in Engelberg, but I liked it. The legendary king size meatballs of Engelberg are famous among the Swedes. The expensive meat as well. But we all came for the snow and die Spindle! And this year was truly good. There was big dumps all winter long. And this year they say was more crowded than before, but still the line-ups for the lifts where short. The terrain is nice, the vertical drop as well and of course there are tons of nice cliffs to launch from.

You're right, Engelberg had an insanely good winter last year and the ski movies and mags were all over it. Do you think it'll be crazy busy next winter? Do you care, or do you have some secret stashes lined up for next year?
I think it's gonna be crazy. Engelberg gets more and more popular. And I think that's gonna be noticed next year. But I don't care. I'm not gonna go back. At least for the season. I feel like trying something new. The system is kinda small and after a while it gets a little boring. But when I stop by for a short visit I have some secret lines to shred.

You've been doing well in some competitions in Europe, any plans to try the Freeskiing World Tour and come over to North America?
The comps in Europe this year I could have done better. I lost skies and took some crashes before I did well in the Swedish Championships which I won. I have plans to come over and do the comps but I'm not sure my knee is good until then. But if the knee is strong I'm definitely coming over to join the races.

That sucks about hurting your knee this spring. Have you turned into a beer guzzling couch potato, or a Rocky look-alike getting ready for the next fight with 'Chariots of Fire' playing in the background?
I've been transformed to the Rocky look-alike. My motivation for next winter is high and I want to comeback stronger than before to shred the lines I didn't do this past season. But ofcourse summer in Sweden means alot of beers and partying. Here in the north we celebrate the never-setting sun by drinking to its honor all summer long.

Any big plans/goals for next winter?
Have a strong knee, ski more than last year, have fun doing it, do some comps, hopefully in North America too.

If we want to see you strut your stuff on snow, where can we look? Any upcoming parts in Swedish ski flicks?
You can check my homepage: www.crillebjork.se
To see a little of my skiing you can check the movie from the Swedish Championships at www.freeride.nu/content/641/
I haven't done any filming for any Swedish company yet. Would be fun to do this winter ofcourse. I was suppose to go on roadtrip before I broke my knee. But the crash ruined it all. Bad knee! This late Autumm it will come a short film in Swedish TV from past season, filmed by a friend of mine with me and my friends

Last but not least, why do Swedish guys always have long hair? Does it make you ski faster or does it have something to do with Swedish girls?
It's all about the hair. The longer the hair, the better the skier.. And of cour

se the girls likes it.

Anyone to thank?
My family and my sponsor. Would be harder to all the funny things I do without them. I must thank my grandpa, my hero. He's a really tough old guy!

Martin Skogfalt Photo

Featured Photographer - Francois Marseille

J Dogg — Mon, 27 Jun 2005 00:00:00 -0400

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Posted June 27, 2005

Name: Francois Marseille

From: Thetford Mines QC

Currently calling home: Miller's place its in the north yards of Squampton

Fondue or Photos: photos

Mars girls or french fries: French girls with gravy

First camera:
Canon FTB

So you seem to run with some the sea to sky's infamous french connection, what can you tell us about your gang?

Well I am fortunate to have friends who rip as good as any pro... but the thing is they do it for the love of the sport.. they don't care about the fame because for the most part they are just a bunch of old farts and are professionals in their own world.

Who's your favorite athlete to work with?

Mike Laidman he is the smoothest most talented skier I've ever met. Everything just look easy with him. Les Manley is also a good call as well as Miller and Dominik Balik.

How long have you called this part of the world home?

I moved to Nelson in 1997...then hitchhike to the sea to sky area one day and never went back.

We've heard rumors of incredible 3 course fondue feasts that you prepare... is cooking an equal passion to photography?

Well like Miller would say "I make honey out of shit" when I cook apparently... So to me photography is like a big recipe you have to mix up all the available ingredients and come up with something that wont make your guests piuke!

What's latest in trend in ski photography that readers should be getting ready for?

I don't spend much time reading ski magazines. To me its all about finding a different point of view... special camera mounts (pole,helmet or even boot mount) film manipulation such as cross processing is very interesting.

Front Country or Back Country?

Front country?...where the fuck is that?....let's go for a walk!

Did the crummy season in Whistler this year lead to any cool trips elsewhere? Or did you make do with what you found?

Well I was on a bender much of the winter but managed to make it up to Gari a few times... especially on new years eve. Skiing was awesome but the hike up at night was epic!!!

Now that summer is here, and global warming is kicking our butts, any tropical water plans?

This summer I'm working hard so next winter I can swim in warm waters no matter what! My next skiing destination will be Quebec... home sweet home.

Any thanks?

Dave Heath, the north yards mobile home association, The Code Blue, Le Jaune and my family, and Miller estie.

Mike Laidman going big in Rogers Pass

Featured Photographer - Court Leve

J Dogg — Sat, 07 May 2005 00:00:00 -0400

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Posted May 7, 2005 by Holly Walker

This past March, I headed down to California in search of powder and dreams. They were both found in the mountains around a big lake known as Tahoe. Stay tuned for the full trip story. But until then here is my interview with one of Tahoe's most talented photographers: Court Leve.

Court is a professional photographer who works for the newspaper Tahoe World. When he is not busy working, he is up in the mountains shooting pictures of friends skiing. It is in the hills of Tahoe that I got the chance to catch up with this casual character and ask him a few questions about himself.

INTERVIEW WITH COURT LEVE from Gravityhook Productions

1. So Court how did you become an action sports photographer?

These things sometimes just sort of happen. I was fortunate in the fact that people around me, friends and locals are all into action sports. You talk with friends about going out shooting the next pow day. When it happens it's rare but almost always worth it. Sooner or later you just meet someone higher up on the food chain.

2. Besides skiing, what other sports do you photograph? Cricket? Speed knitting?

I haven't shot much speed knitting but I bet it's tough to really capture the moment. Skiing/riding images are as much fun to get as they are to have. Outside of that I shoot rock climbers, water skiers and wakeboarders. Dogs hucking their meat. I haven't done much hiking images because hiking is slow and mountain biking would be fun but I like to ride more than shoot.

3. Do you have any role models, i.e. Jimmy Olson?

Roll models are for wusses.

4. I hear you work for the Tahoe World. What is it and what do you do for them?

The Tahoe World is Tahoe City's weekly newspaper. Its coverage area is more or less from Squaw Valley toState Line, NV. I have the best job in the outfit. I shoot photos, period.

5. Before making it big, you must have had some crappy ski bum jobs. What was the worst?

Working for a local newspaper. Kidding of course. Dominos Pizza, Jackson Hole Chamber of commerce ormaking t-shirts, take your pick. And for your information Jackson Hole, WY doesn't actually have a hole, elk don't turn into moose and that truly is snow on the top of those mountains, even in the summer.

6. So who is paying the bills for you these days??

I make most of my money by agreeing to these types of interviews. When that doesn't pan out I rely on my six figure income that rolls in from the newspaper. And when THAT doesn't work out I pimp out my photographic services and photos. If that doesn't work out it's back to driving a cab.

7. If you were to look into a crystal ball, how would you see yourself in five years?

37 years old.

8. On another note, tell us about your dog Owen. I hear he can huck bigger than you?

The rumors are true, he goes large. He's jumped off fifteen footers and he's also jumped at a dock jumping contest over 19 feet. The top dogs do like 26. I bet none of them go high though.

9. So I heard you had mono. That sucks! How old was she?

I don't know, never asked. By the way Holly, how old are you?

10. Where can people go to check out more of your pictures??

Folks can go to www.gravityhook.com or drop me a line at court@gravityhook.com

11. Any shout outs/special thanks?

To all that have helped me along the way-a sincere thank you from me to you.

Owen going big. The amazing powers of doglotion finally put to the test...

Huere Darquier Interview

J Dogg — Tue, 22 Feb 2005 00:00:00 -0500

Rating

Posted Feb 22, 2005

Interview by Holly Walker

Currently calling Whistler home, Huere Darquier of Argentina is out to take the Freeskiing World Tour by storm this year... starting with 2nd place at the 2005 Subaru US Freeskiing Nationals in Utah earlier this month.

Name: Huere Darquier

Birthday: 21/10/1981

Hometown: Bariloche

Currently Residing: Whistler

Sponsors: Helly Hansen, Rossignol, Smith Sport Optics, Garibaldi Lift Co.

Marital Status: Taken, sorry guys!

Lomo completo o completo Loco?: Both

Number of family members: 7

So Huere, rumour has it that you are Argentina's female Freeskiing Champion? Do tell...

We used to have comps till before the economy crashed in 2001. Before that, there wasn't a formal circuit but there was an active interest in freeskiing. I managed to win the title 3 times.

How does Argentina's best end up a twinky in Whistler?

I've been teaching for a long time and it has allowed me to travel all over the world. That's how I get my Canadian visa and it pays the bills.

You killed it in your first World Tour comp in Whistler last season. How did things go for you at the U.S. Freeskiing Nationals in Snowbird last week?

I wouldn't say I killed last year but I managed to end up 5th and prequalified for the 2005 World Tour. This year at Snowbird I managed to end up 2nd.

Any plans in the future? More podium appearances? Sick video segments?

I'll be going to Les Arcs, France for the second stop on the World Tour. I'll be in Kirkwood in a month and a half for the third and last stop. And yeah, I guess I'll be looking for the podium. Along the way I will try to do as much shooting and filming as I can. Last year Heather Roberts did an awesome 'Girls Movie', I would love to be in her second one.

Do toilettes really flush backwards in the Southern Hemisphere?

No guys, your toilettes are flushing backwards! By the way, what's the deal with the public toilettes here? They don't wrap all the way around!!

What do you miss more about Argentina, the men or the beef? Is there a difference?

No there's not. But there is a difference between men and cows. Cows have a smarter look in their eyes.

Has it been hard to support your skiing habits? Are sponsors knocking on your door?

I have to work really hard to make this happen... 3 Argentine pesos are only 1 American dollar. So I pay three times more for my activities. Working here helps, but I'm not working while I compete. I've been lucky enough to get gear from Rossignol and Helly Hansen. I would have been on my own to pay for my travel expenses but Mike Varril and his staff at the GLC in Whistler are helping me plan a fundraiser party in March. I know this is the year to prove myself, next year might be different.

Supposedly you were held at U.S. Immigration for over an hour on your way to Utah. Is that why there aren't more Argentinians on the scene? Evil government ski conspiracy?

Don't suppose anymore, me and my nice but unlucky friends were held at the U.S. Immigration over an hour on our way to Utah...I think it is funny that they actually think I want to move to the United States! South Americans are lazy people, they are probably drinking wine, barbequing and watching soccer... they are not really a threat.

In recent years Las Lenas and Bariloche have been full of gringos...One big party or line poachers?

LINE POACHERS, DAMN IT!

Final question: Any shout outs or special thanks? Oh, and the boys wanted me to ask how many of your family members are sisters?

Thanks to Rossignol, Helly Hansen and the GLC for having faith in me. GRACIAS Waco, Delf, Diego, Lula, Ma y Pa. To my boyfriend Joe Lammers... Thank you Thank you Thank you! And I have two sisters, one is married but Lula isn't! Good luck boys!

About the Interviewer: Holly Walker is a freeskier who enjoys writing, travelling, helping friends with projects and the occassional game of ping pong. She is sponsored by Smith, Giro, Gordini Gloves and Dynastar/Lange/Look.

Featured Photographer - Jon Faulknor

J Dogg — Wed, 26 Jan 2005 00:00:00 -0500

Rating

Posted Jan 26, 2005

Name: Jon Faulknor

From: Onterrible...I mean Ontario..

Currently calling home: A hide out in Nordic. Whistler B.C.

Spoon or fork: Spork..

Mars bars or bar stars: Mars bars on the bar stars...

First camera: Pentax K1000.

So Jon, you've got a hefty stack of awesome nature shots here, is that your main photography gig?

Well it started out to be , but now being in whistler it has started to slow down with the Nature and leaning more towards the Skiing action shots.

Does photography bring home the bacon, or what else do you do to support the habit?

I wish Photography was my main cash Pig.. Right now supporting the habit is teaching ski school..It used to be cooking but I'd rather be outdoors.

Rumour has it you double as a gourmet chef, does that mean Kraft Dinner with special sauce, or are you pretty into it?

Well I can cook a pretty mean gourmet meal when needed...Kraft Dinner is not on my list of gourmet meals, Although I have had a friend cook it many different ways for me....For the nutritional side add broccoli and mix..YUMMY. Oh yeah Ketchup is always a must..

You said you had some plans to travel the globe a bit this year, but ended up back in Whistler for some pow hunting? Where were you headed? And now that the only white powder in Whistler is in the bakery, might you head out again?

Well I was in Scotland for October and a part of November. I was going to go for a year but decided to come back and ski the pow that we are lacking...I will head back there some day again. But for now I will be here in Whistler for a while..I may head to Vancouver for the summer depending on the job situation or even look towards a cruise ship job.

Have you ever been in trouble for bringing a camera somewhere?

No...But I must say I have sneaked it into event's that require a media pass..No security can keep me and my camera out. I would tell you what event's I get into but then there would be posters plastered all over with my face on it.

Tell us about these cool glacier shots. Looks like the product of Whistler's so-called 'special' season this year. Hot summer and dry winter providing a unique opportunity to explore the mountains, um, under belly...

Yeah...that was a great day.. We went up one day and got some shot's of the guy's hucking off the roof and landing almost inside the lip of the cave. Then we had this awesome idea of building an in-run through the cave and build a step up jump...It took 3 days of building it and keeping it a secret so no one else would get the shot we wanted. It's one of those opportunity's that probably will never happen again as this was the first time I had ever seen the Ice caves, due to lack of snow. After the shoot we destroyed the jump so no one else would have the shot.

Any thanks?

I would like to thank all the athletes who come out and shoot with me (and are shown above)... Tyler, Alex, Marty, Chad and Bobby. Also my parent's for having me.... See you all on the slopes

Featured Photographer - Tim O'Kane

J Dogg — Sat, 11 Dec 2004 00:00:00 -0500

Rating

Posted Dec 11, 2004

Name: Tim O'Kane

From: Tiverton, Ontario

Current Home: Whistler; in a small pile of dirt I call my own.

Favorite Cheese: I don't like cheese. Cheese is a conspiracy created by the Portuguese government. (note from interviewer: everyone likes cheese, don't trust those who don't eat it.)

Facial Hair: none, I'm unable to grow it as of yet.

Dream Camera Setup: nothing digital, and fully clothed respectable ladies to hold my slaves.

Tim, most photographers are a little bit eccentric, weird, and bitter at the world, yet you seem quite normal. How is this possible and do you think you'll eventually mold into the above mentioned image?

I like to swim upstream, this is my charter. To go against the grain, that is much harder.

You're a very diverse photographer shooting a wide range of action sports along with nature and portrait shots. Are you planning to zero in on one genre or keep the diversity alive?

I would rather not limit myself to one subject. Diversity is the basil of life.

So you don't dream about shooting food menus for a living?

Negatory.

A couple of years ago you only shot snowboarding, but I see skiers now appearing in front of your lens. How did you end up shooting skiing?

I was abducted one day by a couple of professional skiers who forced me at gunpoint to use my precious film for their own personal glorification.

Weren't these guys jumping off some stupid buildings in the rain onto a little pile of snow, and if this is the case what in the world made you want to point a camera at these characters?

Well it was actually a roof over a mailbox complex, and it was a twelve gauge shotgun that was pointed at my head.

Well it's a good thing that you met these guys because now the ski world has a great photographer coming their way?

I try to do my part for the underprivileged and bring a ray of hope to this bleak world. Spread the sunshine that is my life.

So tell me a funny story from the mountain last year?

I fractured my right clavicle twice. Both times while sliding a rail.

Well I guess that shows why you're a photographer and not a pro snowboarder. Now tell me a funny story involving a burrito, a sunflower, and a 40oz bottle.

Well I could tell you but after I would have to kill you and hide you in a burrito.

How many millions of girls do you score because you're a photographer?

I try to keep that area of my life secret.

Tim, no one will ever know if you tell me your secrets, the Internet is rarely used nowadays.

Well then, eventually I would like to break into the extravagant world of paparazzi photography because that is where all the hotties are.

Do you like to pressure athletes into sketchy situations for a photo or do you just laugh under your breath when they back out like little babies?

I like to put pressure onto the athletes so in my own little way I can push the limits of the sporting world.

So basically you live vicariously through others?

Sh*t I guess your right I was wondering if having a messy room helps with artistic inspiration?

Or is there some other reason there's so much junk on your floor?

Well I believe you can make a picture out of anything and draw your inspiration from anywhere.

Snow's pretty cold, eh?

Not if you warm it up.

Any Thanks?

Shaun-o & Dave at FSI for hooking me up with film and beer. My family for kicking ass, anyone who puts themselves in front of my lens, my friends f*%king rule, Jamie & Blair at Doglotion.com, and anyone that's not on this list, there's a reason for that.