How did you get started in photography?

Dean: In 1991 I moved up to Durango from New Mexico to race mountain bikes. I was getting burnt out on racing but still wanted to attend events. So I started shooting instead of racing.  

How long have you been at it?

Dean: I bought my first 35mm SLR 10 years ago.  
 
When did it really happen for you?

Dean: I started out by shooting the typical landscape scenics and then included bikers in the scenes. It really got rolling when I started shooting more commercial type images using strobes and sold some covers.  

What’s special about shooting with strobes?

Dean: Strobes can add the element of dimension to an image and just plainly light the subject necessary for a high quality shot. But.. They’re difficult to use, not only the technical aspects but the weight of the battery packs I need to carry on the trail.  

Some of your photos feature you as the model, how does that work?

Dean: Sometimes I ride alone in the backcountry. I kept coming across these incredible photo opportunities along the trail and couldn’t shoot! So I started putting the camera on a tripod and used the timer to fire the shot of a myself riding in some beautiful mountain single track. At first it was difficult but then I figured out some methods to simplify things. It still only works for unique shots like when I’m spending 8 hours on a trail just waiting for the light to happen. Nobody wants to sit around that long and I don’t blame them.  

Who’s the most enjoyable racer to work with?

Dean: I’d have to say Ned Overend because he’s so into it. He makes himself available for shoots. He’s an interesting person to talk to and very down to earth. We had a cover of Mountain Bike last year and a cover of Bicycling this year so it’s mutually beneficial when we get together to shoot. All the racers are fun to work with especially if they're launching big air for the shot!
 
Do you shoot any other sports?

Dean: Not really, I stay busy with the bikes. I'm an avid nordic skier and I'd shoot it if there were several magazines dedicated to it.  

Do you have advice for new photographers?

Dean: The most important thing is to find your photographic self. Shoot what you’re truly good at and enjoy shooting. Don’t look at photography as a means of making money. Just shoot what makes you happy and if things work out you might get some pay checks. The main goal should be to love what you are shooting and grow from the experience.