Taking six months off during high school to backpack around the world was one of the best choices Mark Burnham ever made. With so many fantastic sights to see, he found that he became used to constantly having his camera at his side.
“It was this trip that really fortified the fact that photography would always be a big part of my life,” said Burnham.
The now 21-year-old labels himself as a wedding and commercial outdoor adventure photographer, but outdoor adventure is where his passion really lies. Burnham’s favourite thing to do is rock climbing… and putting a camera in his hands in such a situation, in any weather, pushes his creative limits.
“There are so many aspects and variables to take into account when you’re shooting in horrible conditions, when you’re a couple thousand feet off the ground or just trying to keep up with the athletes,” said Burnham.
Climbing and photography are Burnham’s two passions and he’s combined them to create fantastic adventure shots.
Burnham has won awards in high school and has been recognized by Simon Fraser University’s newspaper for his photography. He is currently working on his bachelor’s degree in kinesiology at SFU, but he doesn’t want to give up photography for anything.
“A future in physiotherapy is a possibility,” said Burnham. “But I’m spending the next few years building up clients and contacts and just seeing where my photography is taking me.”
His dream career would be to work a maximum of five weddings a year and spend the rest of his time climbing around the world and selling his outdoor adventure photography to outfitters like The North Face and Patagonia.
Check out this video featuring Scott Willson, the director of photo and video for The North Face. He discusses what he looks for in adventure photographers and what they have to go through to become the best.
Burnham’s suggestion for success is to shoot what interests you, and shoot a lot of it. With every picture that’s taken, experience is gained. He also says to never be afraid to take photos because you doubt your experience or equipment because that’s how great opportunities are missed.
Burnham’s wedding photography is now a huge part of his business.
Burnham shot his first wedding engagement session a few years ago when a friend approached him about it.
“I had no idea what I was doing but decided to give it a try,” said Burnham. “She hired me for her wedding as soon as the shoot was over and now weddings are a major part of my business. You never know where life will take you if you’re open to new opportunities.”