TAKE TEN: Jess Meniere

Taking her trusty Fujifilm X100S to the mountains of Switzerland for some serious “bike packing,” Jess Meniere is as happy behind the shutter as she is in the seat of her bike (or on the trail, or in the sea). We chatted to her to find out more about her love of telling a story.

Apart from shooting trail running, mountain biking and cycling, you also take part in these events yourself. Does it contribute to the understanding of your subjects better and does being fit help when shooting?

The outdoor world has forever been my muse. I am obsessed with nature and have an adoration for the ocean and mountains. I found freediving right after high school and was captivated by the colours of our ocean. There I fell in love with the art and technique of underwater photography. I was hooked and spent hours with my head below the surface, peering through my viewfinder…

This all-encompassing love for freediving was then replaced with a love for trail running and our mountain spaces, which presented as a new and exciting challenge. Wanting ever-so-badly to pursue a semi-competitive and professional career as an elite trail runner, my dreams quickly crumbled when I was sidelined with a spinal and hip injury. But, channelling the same love for the sport, I redirected my focus away from competition, and rather began to focus on the forever unfolding creativity that the sport offers.

As a runner and cyclist, a nuanced understanding of what athletes are pushing through – the highs and the lows – most definitely creates a relatability and empathy for my photography subjects. Being strong enough to keep up with the front runners, as well as hike-up and onto the course for view and key point locations is also essential in the sports photography world.

Storytelling seems to be part and parcel of what you offer, whether that is through your photography or your writing. Is that a fair assumption?

I’ve always been intrigued by the unfolding of life, and capturing these unfoldings, be it through visuals or words. It has been such an incredible journey – filled with so much growth, appreciation, reflection and joy. So yes, a very fair assumption.

What are you looking for in terms of composition when taking photos? What makes it “your” style?

I love taking photos that make the viewer question how the scene was framed or shot. I try my best to emulate a sense of voyeurism, a sense of being transported into the still image oneself. I love a motion blur, I love a Dutch tilt, and oh my goodness, do I love bold and brilliant colours.

You’re shooting with the Fujifilm X100S amongst others. What do you think it adds to your photography?

The size of the camera is so understated, and by not drawing attention to itself, it feels like the photos captured are never posed nor the moments disrupted.

Do you make use of Film Simulations?

I don’t use any Film Simulations, but rather do all my editing in post.

What photography lesson did you learn the hard way?

If you miss a shot, you’ve missed it. The saying “don’t cry over spilt milk” applies here, especially when chasing a race. You can’t get stuck on what you didn’t shoot, you’ve got to move on and keep running after the next frame.

Best advice you received regarding photography?

Try not to get caught in the creative comparison but rather focus on your own viewfinder. It’s important to draw inspiration from other photographers in the space, but never let this outward gaze leave you to question or criticise your own work.

What has been your favourite photography trip so far and what’s on your photography bucket list?

I’ve been so privileged to travel far and wide, having grown up in five different continents, so picking one previous trip feels all too complicated and unfair. However, what I am looking most forward to is a 10-day bike-packing trip in Zimbabwe, coming up at the end of the month.

Find more of Jess’ work here:

Website: https://www.jessmeniere.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jess_meniere/