Industry News
The World Ski and Snowboard Festival (WSSF) unveils the five finalists for the Sea to Sky Photo Challenge, vying for the prestigious title of Best in Show photographer and the $3,000 cash prize. The esteemed finalists include Laura Szanto, Matt Bruhns, Steffi Jade, Nicolas Teichrob, and Anatole Tulzak, securing the Wild Card spot.
Laura Szanto, an internationally renowned commercial and editorial photographer, brings a wealth of experience with clients such as National Geographic, Nikon Canada, and Liv Cycling. Hailing from Eastern Canada and now based in Revelstoke, Szanto’s expertise spans action/ adventure photography to weddings, portraits, architecture, and travel photography.
Matt Bruhns, a native of New York, embarked on his photographic journey capturing the essence of his friends navigating powdery slopes. Over the past decade, he has immersed himself in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia, also known for his prowess in roasting coffee in Pemberton.
Steffi Jade, a surf aficionado originally from the Canadian Rockies, followed her passion to the shores of California, where she realized her dream of becoming a full-time surf photographer. Her lens has since traversed the globe, capturing surfers in their natural element.
Nicolas Teichrob, based in Ucluelet, British Columbia, blends adventure with environmental advocacy through visual storytelling in photography and film. With a background in Hydrology, Teichrob co-founded Dendrite Studios and ‘Take a Stand Youth for Conservation,’ showcasing environmental issues while promoting outdoor exploration.
Anatole Tulzak, securing the Wild Card spot, represents the intersection of outdoor photography and aerial cinematography. Originating from the Yukon and now residing in Squamish, Tulzak’s focus lies in landscape, action sports, and adventure lifestyle photography.
Judging this year’s competition are industry luminaries Sterling Lorence, Abby Cooper, Blake Jorgenson, Robin O’Neill, and Scott Serfas. Their collective expertise promises to uphold the tradition of excellence in selecting the Best in Show for WSSF 2024.
The Sea to Sky Photo Challenge adds a grassroots twist to the traditional Pro Photographer Showdown. New for 2024, talented photographers from across the Pacific Northwest were invited to apply, with Four photographers hand-selected by the judges, and one applicant claiming the wild card spot. These five finalists will showcase their portfolios, capturing sport, culture, and the human spirit before a live audience on Wednesday April 10, 2024. Event tickets will go on sale early March.
To stay updated, follow World Ski & Snowboard Festival on Instagram or Facebook, or visit www.wssf.com.
