MY PROCESS

VANTAGE ROCK CLIMBING

CASE STUDY

ROLE

Photographer

YEAR

2026

CAMERA

Canon Rebel EOS T7

Photograph of rock climber

PROJECT DESCRIPTION


“Vantage Rock Climbing” is a dynamic photography project that captures the intensity, exposure, and raw beauty of outdoor climbing from a uniquely immersive perspective. By roping in alongside the climber—rappelling and ascending on the rock face—I’m able to document moments that would otherwise be impossible to access. This hands-on approach allows for intimate, high-impact imagery that conveys both the physical challenge and the emotional experience of climbing. The project highlights not only the athlete’s movement and environment, but also the trust, precision, and adrenaline inherent in the sport.

TIMELINE

2 Days

SOFTWARE

Adobe Lightroom, Adobe Photoshop


THE PREPARATION

I begin each project by brainstorming and developing notes that outline my vision for the shoot. I approach every climb with a range of planned shots, compositions, and styles in mind, while remaining adaptable to changing conditions and opportunities on the wall. Part of this preparation includes selecting the appropriate lenses—or deciding to bring multiple options and switch between them while on rappel—to ensure I can capture each moment with precision and intent.

Photograph of a young woman sitting cross legged on a log with a mountain backdrop
Traditional climbing gear anchor with a single line descending from it

THE ANCHOR

Once at the crag, there are a few options for setting up the system I use to photograph climbers. The first step in either approach is building a secure anchor for the fixed rope. If the top of the wall is accessible without climbing, I can approach from above and establish the anchor there. If not, I first climb the route to reach the top, then set the anchor and fix the rope. This fixed line becomes my primary access—allowing me to rappel down the face and ascend back up while capturing the climb from dynamic vantage points.


THE ACTION

With the preparation complete and the anchor set, the process shifts from setup to execution. I attach into the fixed line and begin my descent, using a auto-locking system that allows me to pause and remain stationary with my hands free at any point to capture images. This mobility gives me the freedom to rappel past the climber for overhead perspectives, then ascend back alongside them as needed—adjusting my position to capture dynamic, ever-changing angles throughout the ascent.


THE EDITING

With the preparation complete and the anchor set, the process shifts from setup to execution. I attach into the fixed line and begin my descent, using a auto-locking system that allows me to pause and remain stationary with my hands free at any point to capture images. This mobility gives me the freedom to rappel past the climber for overhead perspectives, then ascend back alongside them as needed—adjusting my position to capture dynamic, ever-changing angles throughout the ascent.

Rock climber coming down after a successful lead climb

BEFORE

Rock climber coming down after a successful lead climb

AFTER

CAPTURING THE ADRENALINE

For the results of this shoot and others like it, explore the Outdoor Sport category within my Photography Portfolio.