Jimmy Chin is one of the most extreme adventurers in the world and, fortunately for us, he’s also a very talented photographer. As he hikes, climbs and skis across the world’s harshest terrains, Jimmy somehow manages to capture the raw beauty of nature while also showing us the incredible spirit of human beings. What makes his shots so distinct is that he captures them from incredible angles that only an extreme adventurer would be able to see.
I was fortunate to get in touch with Jimmy and asked him a few questions about his amazing craft. You can catch the entire interview, below.
Where are you from? Can you please give us a brief description of yourself?
I was born and raised in Mankato MN. After college I lived on the road and out of my car for 7 years floating between odd jobs, climbing areas and ski towns. I’ve been based around Jackson Hole WY for 10 or so years now. I’m traveling an average of 200 days a year. When people ask my where my favorite place to travel is, I say “home.” Professionally, I hover somewhere between being a professional climber / skier / ambassador for several sponsors, producer / director / cinematographer at Camp 4 Collective (my production company) and a photographer. Jack of all trades, master of none.
You say that you’re passionate about traveling, exploring, climbing, skiing, and photography. What have been some of your greatest adventures?
If I had to choose a few expeditions, they would include my first expedition to Pakistan’s Charakusa Valley in the Karakoram, attempting the direct North Face on Everest without fixed lines, camps or oxygen, skiing Everest, crossing Tibet’s Chang Tang Plateau and attempting the East Face of the Shark’s Fin on Mount Meru in the Garwhal Himalaya. However, in my business, everyday seems to be an adventure.
What’s the most challenging thing about shooting while climbing or skiing?
Trying to be creative under physical or environmental duress, often times both.
What do you look for in the perfect shot?
Good light and engaging subject matter.
If you could give one piece of advice to aspiring photographers, what would it be?
There are many ways to shoot a subject. Try all of them.
Photographer Jimmy Chin (left) with his fellow adventurers.
Jimmy Chin: Website