Adventure Pro photographer Terrance Siemon positions himself to capture this unique rock climbing angle, a skill that sometimes proves tricky
The overhead rock climbing angle is one that requires a right place, right time mentality. A successful execution not only provides depth in the image, but can capture some truly raw emotions.
While on a shoot in the Rio Grande Gorge near Taos, New Mexico, I got busy snapping shots of a climber who was tackling some interesting bouldering problems near the rim of the gorge. Looking for a dramatic composition to show the steepness of the terrain over the Rio Grande River, I positioned myself above the climber. Anticipating that he would use this hold once he arrived at the top of the climb, I settled into place and waited. I framed the hold to be in the foreground and put the focus on the background. This resulted in the following photo. The viewer can see the emotion on the climber’s face as he successfully completes his route, a sight made possible thanks to the perfect overhead rock climbing angle.
Camera: Nikon D800
Focal Length: 14mm
ISO: 200
Exposure: 1/400
Aperture: f/4
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