The day after I arrived in Chile for my first South American adventure I was invited on a two day stout fest just north of Pucon. The mission was to grab as much free fall as the crews’ backs would allow. Around the Curacautín area, a region of mostly farmland surrounded by towering volcanic peaks, there are a few solid waterfalls that one can descend. After a session at the first waterfall (10 meters) the boys decided that we should head to Tomatita- a roughly 15 meter drop that was on my must shoot list for my time in Chile. After hiking to the lip of the drop I knew there were a couple photo problems I needed to solve with Tomatita. First, there’s really only a select few areas to shoot this drop from as it’s a pretty well forested area. I had seen image after image online of the same stock angle at this drop and I was adamant about creating a new image out of this waterfall. Secondly, I was out of time to explore other creative shooting options. The crew was on their last leg for the day and I didn’t want to delay them from dropping a 50 footer for too long. Luckily, I spied a great branch protruding out that had a fun pattern that I could use for foreground. Jan was ready to drop and I framed the image out, shooting him with his dramatic style in the air for that very brief moment. I knew I had something and was satisfied with how that image and day turned out. Thanks again for the great line, Jan!
John Webster

About the shot

Biography
I am John Webster, a born and raised Idahoan and a professional visual story teller. Since my parents gave me my first camera, I have loved to tell stories through the medium of photography.
If there is anything that I have learned in the past few years, it is that the people who encompass extreme sports are some of the most interesting individuals in the world. The talent, devotion, and positivity that drive this diverse genre of athleticism is what makes me want to capture it all.
I love being in deep canyons kayaking with my friends as well as being in the mountains riding fresh powder. I love the relaxed sensation after having a great day of shredding. To be in solitude is one of the best experiences I think anyone can have. I also think the power of an image is one that can move mountains and that is why I love to shoot. On to the next venture!