Rock Climbing Photography

Rock Climbing photography is dangerous. Below are helpful hints and direction, this is by no means a full guide, and nothing can replace learning from a skilled instructor and hands on experience. I highly recommend having a foundation in trad climbing before you undertake ascending on a fixed line, and have an experienced person present for at least the first few times. You do not have to ascend a fixed line to start your endeavor into rock climbing photography. Though all can agree that being above makes for dynamic photos, don’t be afraid to shoot from the ground to catch the details of climbing and a unique and creative perspective of the sport.

Rock Climbing Photography: Hints to Start

Tips and inspiration for getting into Rock Climbing Photography Rock Climbing photography is dangerous. Below are helpful hints and direction, this is by no means a full guide, and nothing can replace learning from a skilled instructor and hands on experience. I highly recommend having a foundation in trad climbing before you undertake ascending on a fixed line, and have an experienced person present for at least the first few times. You do not have to ascend a fixed line to start your endeavor into rock climbing photography. Though all can agree that being above makes for dynamic photos, don’t be afraid to shoot from the ground to catch the details of climbing and a unique and creative perspective of the sport.

Where to Start

Here's where to get started on your rock climbing photography journey.

Gear

You're going to want to check out these options for what to wear on your rock climbing journey.

  • Camera Straps

    One of my best investments was to get a harness strap for my camera. Not only do I know it is firmly attached, I like the under arm strap so I know it won't just slip off in mid air. They are on the pricey side, but they are worth every penny.

  • Easy Aider - Metolius Climbing

    You don't need a full aid ladder if your intention is to get up a fixed line to take photos. These footsteps will do you just fine. They are less expensive, lighter, and adjustable in length.

  • Jumars (Ascenders)

    Your main ascension device is a Jumar. There are many different ones on the market, but here are the differences between the main ones Petzl and Black Diamond. All are meant to get you, the difference really lies in ergonomics.

  • Know Your Rope

    Know the difference between static and dynamic ropes. Static line is best for rigging yourself up to shoot on a fixed line. Its sheath will be thick to prevent abrasion and it will not stretch, and therefore bounce, while you are trying to ascend it.

  • The Bosuns Chair Save Your Body

    Sitting in your harness for even 20mins on a fixed line can be hard on your body. Your harness is cutting off the circulation to your legs and squeezing your kidneys into the rest of your organs. Do yourself a favor by making or buying a bosuns seat. It will take the harness pressure off your body and makes hanging out waiting for your climber much more enjoyable.

  • The Bunny Ear Figure 8

    A figure 8 with 2 loops coming out of the top, a good knot to know for rigging your line up on a 2 bolt anchor. You will also need 2 locking carabiners.

  • The Gear The Pros Use

    What camera? What lens? Here's what the pros use. Jimmy Chin's lens of choice for rock climbing photography is the Canon L-Series 24-70mm 2.8 lens. (I followed that advice and that is the lens I went with)

Technique

Here's how to capture the perfect picture while rock climbing.

  • Ascend Your Rope: 2 Ascenders

    There are many different ways and techniques to ascend your fixed line, this is the double ascender method. It is more effort but a quicker ascent. 2 jumars are used for this technique.

  • Ascend Your Rope: The 2:1 System

    There are many different ways and techniques to ascend your fixed line. This is the easiest, as it gives you mechanical advantage, but it is slower than using 2 ascenders. A jumar and GriGri are used for this technique.

  • How to Jug a Rope

    If you can let a climbing gym let you hang a fixed line, practice there. Most of jummaring is just getting the rhythm down and figuring out when to pull or when to push.

  • Saddle Bag Your Rope

    Saddle bagging your rope to your harness ensures that it stays out of your shot and clear from hitting your climber or those below.

Inspiration

These links will inspire you to go out and try it!

Meet The Author