In the breathtaking expanse of the Himalayas, through the untouched snowy pillow lines of British Columbia and across the rugged, sunbaked terrain of Utah, the lens of Robin O’Neill captures not just moments but vivid narratives that stir the soul. Nestled in the heart of Whistler, British Columbia, this action sports photographer immerses herself in the elements, etching intimate connections and wild landscapes into her visual storytelling. Her presence in the realm of extreme sports extends over a remarkable span of 14 years, marked by her unyielding spirit to traverse treacherous landscapes on skis or mountain bikes, resulting in authentic images that inspire awe and admiration.
Before diving into the adrenaline-laden world of action sports, O’Neill distinguished herself working with NGOs globally, wielding her camera to document diverse tales birthed from her travels. The pivotal moment came in 2002, upon relocating to Whistler, where she learned skiing and mountain biking, ultimately channeling her passion for storytelling into the captivating mountains. Major advertising campaigns have long benefitted from her expertise, while her prowess culminated in her recognition as a finalist at the Red Bull Illume in 2019 and accolades like the Whistler Deep Winter and Deep Summer Photo Showdowns.
Her illustrious career has seen her on the ground covering monumental events, including the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, high-stakes commercial campaigns, and electrifying action sports spectacles such as the Red Bull Rampage, where she has now covered the prestigious freeride event three times.
“It’s an honor to be here,” O’Neill expresses, acknowledging the significance of the Rampage within the action sports domain—a pinnacle recognized by all who dare traverse its formidable courses. The 2024 edition carries a particularly profound weight for O’Neill as it introduced a women’s category, a development she deems a privilege to document. “I think it’s such a privilege to memorialize the female Red Bull Rampage riders,” she reflects, passionately advocating for increased visibility and inclusion for women in front of and behind the lens.
The stark, sunburnt landscape of the Red Bull Rampage unfolds as a dynamic stage—the challenge of nailing the perfect shot involves deft navigation of the harsh, exposed terrain while remaining vigilant and ready for the next rider’s descent. “The athletes,” she elaborates, “are doing incredibly complex things down the mountain, and you want to capture it all.” The dance of riders is a captivating spectacle, with one performer soaring from one side while another may appear on the opposite edge of the venue, leaving mere seconds for O’Neill to strategize her shot—a thrilling and multifaceted challenge she embraces wholeheartedly.
O’Neill reflects on the similarities between photographing big mountain skiing and freeride mountain biking, acknowledging the vital skill of terrain awareness and the nuances of athlete composition within the frame. “If you’ve shot big mountain skiing, it transfers,” she emphasizes, showcasing her developed understanding of the mountain’s personality.
Equipped not only with her traditional digital camera but also with the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, O’Neill experienced a refreshing shift in her approach to capturing the fast-paced action. The Galaxy S24 is not just a compact device but has proven itself an invaluable asset, capturing every pulsating detail, while Photo Assist with Galaxy AI grants her the power to tangibly alter her surroundings through resizing or repositioning elements in her photos.
“This device in your pocket allows for boundless creative expression—it’s empowering,” she shares, highlighting the contrast between lugging heavy camera gear and the freedom a compact tool offers.
No matter if she bears an SLR or wields her sleek smartphone, one thing is unequivocally certain: Robin O’Neill will undoubtedly seize the shot. The Red Bull Rampage 2024 encapsulates a thrilling journey of emotion, adrenaline, and groundbreaking moments that defy gravity itself, immortalized through the visionary eye of O’Neill.
