An award-winning photographer has made a name for himself after trekking to some of the most remote locations on the planet. Now, he shares some vital advice to ensure that your treks are just as successful.
Ryan Pyle is not only a successful photographer, he is also a TV presenter, with the second season of his hit series Extreme Treks already out. This time around, Pyle has trekked around parts of China, Oman, and Nepal, to name a few.
In an interview with Asian Geographic, Pyle revealed just how far his love for trekking goes, specifically back to mountainous Tibet at the turn of the millennium. “I’ve always loved getting out of the city and walking and camping in beautiful places,” he said.
“Trekking is pretty much taking long walks off the beaten track to learn about culture and see amazing landscapes. We did the first series of Extreme Treks in Tibet. It was independently produced and directed.”
Not only was Pyle quick to share his reasons for why he got into photography in the first place, he also explained what he’s looking for through the lens. “When I take photos on my treks, I’m just looking to capture the moment and the feelings associated with it.”
“On the Oman trip we met a caravan along the way and got to interact with locals and experience local culture. Then we finished up a 12-day trek by rock climbing in 40°C heat to a point 3,000m above sea level – the highest point in all of the Arabian Peninsula.”
As for other aspiring photographers who want to get out there and get to the top of the mountain, Pyle has a few words of wisdom. “My advice is to take a lot of pictures. And to be in the place that you want to tell stories,” he said.
“If you really want to be a good photographer, sometimes that means keeping your daily finances low so you can afford money to travel. And sometimes it means taking the plunge and leaving home, moving to a new country.”
“It’s much cheaper to take pictures in the place you live than get on a plane there lots of times. You get better and faster that way. Being immersed in a way of life different from what you’re used to will create the environment for your skills to develop through experience and observation.”