Snow day, crown range fun.

Recent snowfall around the Wakatipu basin inspired Matt Soundy, Marlon Johnson and I to check out some photo opportunities on the crown range. Clearing weather and two sick skiers ensured a productive day with the lens.

During the trip back to Queenstown from the Volkl Freeski at Cardrona, Soundy and I began to discuss ideas for additional shoots. What resulted were many insane ideas which no one in their right mind would consider attempting - thinking way too big. I was pretty determined about a few I had previously envisaged, however reality was brutal and the physical locations I had in mind were ultimately idealistic. We finally picked one spot where success was possible, max effort definite.

Marlon Johnson and Matt Soundy

Our plan was to hit this monument and stall on top for the shot. Potential run in options - a hill 50m away...

The run in was a huge mission. The guys had to hike the hill 150 metres or so, jump a barb wire fence, go through car park to finally line up for the hit. It was quite a mission but well worth the effort getting to fit in some fresh powder (/tussock) turns.

Prep of the shot, also check if it wasn't in memory of someone.

Soundy finally getting to test it.

After multiple wasted runs from perfecting the run in and being cut off from cars pulling in for a look, Soundy was not looking so sharp. A big night out in QT was threatening to emerge in colour! Finally making the hit, it became apparent that even more speed was needed. Marlon and Soundy had to hike a further 50m just to gain sufficient speed.

Marlon Johnson with the shot.

On the final hit the weather definitely came to the party - blue skies allowing for a final shot I’m absolutely stoked with.
This was taken with the canon 5D mark II, 24-105mm f/4L with two 580EX's combined with Pocket wizards. Shot at: 24mm 1/200th, f/11, iso 50.
Enjoy, Stefan Haworth