If you’ve skied Whistler – then like me, you’ve probably sat at the top of Whistler Mountain, looked out over countless mountain tops, and had your mind blown by the awe-inspiring beauty that lay before you. And although I can truly appreciate the scenes before me, any attempt I make at capturing these images with a camera tend to end up in the “disappointing is an understatement” department.
So it is with huge respect and admiration that I look upon the work of accomplished photographer and Whistler local, Ashley Barker. Her images seem to resonate with vivid truth and are so full of life that if I let my mind wander, I can actually feel a brisk mountain breeze. Unlike some photographers who seem to have singular style, Ashley excels in an array of photography – and is sought after for everything from weddings to commercial product shots to action/adventure.
While Ashley has worked with many clients in many different industries, even lending her lens to capture the spirit of Summit Lodge & Spa, her photography is largely renowned and coveted within the mountain culture world.
Formally trained, but passion driven – Ashley, only in her mid-twenties, has broken through the seemingly impenetrable male-dominated world of lifestyle/action photography. An accomplished athlete in her own right, Ashley braves the conditions to get the shot. With over a decade of experience under her belt and 8 published magazine covers, Ashley’s clientele is impressive and includes such big-wigs as TransWorld Magazine, Snowboarder Magazine, Golden Ride Magazine, DC, Quicksilver, Billabong and many more.
I could go on and on about how Ashley’s work is important for female photographers everywhere or how she is a photographic ambassador to the natural world or that she is simply an awesome Whistler local, but in an effort not to expose the “photographers-crush” I clearly have – I’ll simply leave you with a Q&A from a previous interview and links to her portfolio and photography blog.
Sharp Shooters: Behind the Scenes with TransWorld’s Elite Senior Photographer Ashley Barker
Q: First Cover?
A: Snowboarder 2007
Q: If I were a camera, I’d be a ______.
A: Leica
Q: Best excuse for blowing the shot.
A: I didn’t hear you call dropping on the radio
Q: One accessory you can’t shoot without
A: The rider
Q: Black & White or Color?
A: Black & White
Q: One tip that changed your career?
A: Backlight
Q: Advice for up-and-comers?
A: Take risks and don’t shoot stock
Q: Top three photographers?
A: Richard Avedon, Annie Lebowitz & David LaChapelle
