Sven's Take
After a brief stint as a pro skateboarder, current mtb fotog Sven Martin, got into mtb in 2001 and began racing pro in 2003. He was a regular on the Norba circuit and rode for and managed the Honda Turner team. He raced his first world cup in 2003 in Kaprun. Although he never completed a full series, he consistently qualified top 30 in W.C. action and raced at 3 world champs. Low lights? A broken neck and way too many flats during race runs. A flat claimed his von voyage W.C. run at the worlds in Ft. Bill in 2007.
What do you miss most about racing?
Finding flow and speed on new tracks and pushing yourself to the limit. When i walk the course with my camera i still look for the fast race lines i would take if i was racing.
What do you miss least?
Since i still have to get up early on course in cold wet weather for photos, its not that. I don't miss race day nerves, stress, flats and crashes.
How did you get your start in photography?
Always tooled around as a kid with wildlife photography in Africa on family vacations. I then got into skate and surf photography with some South African magazines after moving to the USA. I began working with some of the top skate and surf mags and companies and as I transitioned into bikes so did my photographic focus. This is the first year that I am doing it full time. I've already worked in 11 countries this year alone.
What is the most memorable race you've watched post retirement?
Probably Champery last year, the course was just so different to what riders had become used to. It was good watching top riders get thrown in the deep end for a change. It was a treat to watch Nico ride again not to mention Sam Hill in the muddy final. As for retirement, that will never happen.
What would you like to see happen in mtb that isn't happening today?
More new venues. Or at least new tracks at old venues. Half the allure to world cup racing is traveling the world to new and exotic locations. It sucks going back to the same old locations year in and year out. A USA stop on the World Cup series would be good. North Star would be perfect to host such a stop.
What are some of the key characteristics of a great riding shot?
I like to try get a mix of shots. Some tight close up shots where you see emotion, grit, determination and style. I also like some pulled back shots to show the location and scenery. I like to show different locations as much as possible so your shots don't all look the same regardless of venue. Its key to also try and catch a crucial moment of each race but that sometimes comes down to luck or instinct.