In the heart of the Dolomites, the Erta slope in San Vigilio di Marebbe is the setting for one of the most exciting stages of the Women's Ski World Cup . Every year, this challenging black slope attracts athletes from all over the world, ready to challenge its steep descents for a thrilling giant. I have had the privilege of documenting each edition of this race, offering a look behind the scenes through the lens of sports photography.
Getting to know the Athletes: The weeks preceding the competition bring a vibrant atmosphere, as the athletes of the national team and others only, they immerse themselves in intensive training. The sporting tension is palpable in the air, but there is also a contagious energy. Talking about preparations and training on social media becomes a delicate task. The concentration of the athletes is sacred, and yet, the possibility of experiencing these moments alongside women of such caliber is an irresistible stimulus.
The Challenge of Sports Photography: Capturing the explosive energy of downhill runs requires not only technical skill but also a profound understanding of sport. Positioning yourself strategically along the track is essential to guarantee safety, but at the same time, your gaze must always be attentive to technical details and backgrounds that can amplify the image. Sports photography in skiing thus becomes a delicate dance between attention to the technical gesture and the search for visual aesthetics.
Emotions Before the Descent: The heart of the preparation is in the moments preceding the descent. In those brief moments of warm-up, you can feel the tension, concentration and determination of the athletes. Photographing discreetly during this period is a challenge, but it is also an opportunity to capture the essence of what makes skiing an exciting and passionate experience.
Individuality in Skiing: Despite the individual nature of skiing, collaboration and team support are fundamental . Each athlete navigates the lines and curves with millimeter precision, but the strength of the group remains an indispensable pillar. Photography becomes a tool to show the duality between the individual and the collective, underlining that behind every single technical gesture there is a team that supports and inspires.
Smiles: At the end of each workout, when the pressure dissolves, it's time to capture spontaneous smiles . Fatigue, effort and joy emerge in the faces of the athletes, revealing a more human side of this sport. Photography captures the moments of brotherhood and friendship that develop, reminding us that even in an individual sport, the strength of a team is invaluable.
Conclusion: In a world of speed and precision, sports photography on the Erta track captures more than just images of competition. It reveals the grit, dedication and humanity that hide behind every descent. Through my lens, I have tried in recent years to convey not only the technical mastery of the athletes, but also the beating heart of a sport which, despite being individual, finds strength in the strength of the team.