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There are not many female photographers in the industry and even fewer that are invited by male crews to come out and shoot in both urban and backcountry locations but Canada’s Ashley Barker is one of those select few. And at only 23 years old, she’s a youngin’! Ashley’s quick rise in this industry is due to hard work, dedication, perseverance, and talent. I first met Ashley three years ago on one of the first trips I
went on for the Women’s Annual, cat boarding in Whistler. At the time she was just finishing up her studies at Western Academy of Photography. She was young and eager not only putting a lot of time into setting up for her shots but helping the riders to build jumps, shovel snow, and whatever else it took.I was impressed and nothing much has really changed since then except that Ashley’s photos have graced
many international snow publications, even capturing a cover for Snowboarder and having shots published in Foam magazine. She’s been on countless editorial trips, team photo shoots and not only have her skills grown
but so too has her reputation. The great thing about Ashley is, not only does she have a love for photography but snowboarding as well. She’s totally down to get her shred on and I’ve been on trips with her where
either she dropped her bag and we charged the park and pipe or even with the bag on, she would charge jumps!
Ashley grew up in Calgary, Alberta learning how to snowboard at 12, riding with the boys and then picking up a camera after her older brother influenced her. She began shooting her friends, later turning it into a career path. Ashley has
done it all to work towards getting all her photo gear and make ends meet: babysitter, dishwasher, setter, expediter, hostess, VW junkyard employee, Molson promo girl, waitress and bartender. These days it’s her photography skills that are paying the bills and I’m stoked that even as she’s grown in this industry she’s still one of our main contributors. Being a photography is the ultimate job to get you up close and personal with professional snowboarding. Check out Ashley’s interview for details on her fab life, all well earned!
What are the main duties of your job?
To capture the action and lifestyle highlights at their peak, log images, network with snowboarders, companies and publications, plan shoots, sell images and all the other little things that come with running a business.
Are you part of a team or do you oversea people in your position?
There is no 'I' in team. I work with different riders and together we create still images as best we can.
Any projects or initiatives the you were instrumental in spearheading that you're super stoked on?
Everyday is a new project that I'm excited to be a part of.
What's the best part of your job?
Being myself, and calling my own shots. Snowmobiling.
What's the hardest part?
Snowmobiling. Staying motivated can sometimes be difficult when equipment breaks down, temperatures are so cold you don't want to go outside, and riders are getting injured or bummed. It's hard working for yourself in a tight industry when
budgets are tight and companies try to low ball as best they can. Most people that work in the industry don't truly understand how much time and money it takes to get that one image and what truly goes into getting 'the shot'.
Do you get to travel for work?
Always. I am on the road more than I am at home.
Where do you frequently travel to?
I've been traveling to a lot of places recently, but most frequently I'd say all over BC, Calgary and surrounding area, and the USA.
Where's the best place you've traveled to?
For snowboarding, Japan. I went there this winter on an Oakley/Snowboarder magazine story and it was an amazing experience. Argentina and New Zealand were fun too.
How many days a year do you get to snowboard?
Full days without a backpack, probably 10-20 including the summer. I try to make an effort to get a couple runs in if I am shooting at a resort or in the backcountry, but if riders are keen to get any shot, that always takes priority.
Where's your favourite place to snowboard?
Anywhere with pow, but the Rockies have the best snow. The light fluffy stuff. A good jump and a soft pipe are rad too.
What advice can you give to girls that would like to pursue a career in your field?
Shoot everyday, strive to be different, and give it everything you got.
Dustin Craven
Kimmy Fasani
Ryan Hall
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