Ice Climbing Fearful Symmetry, Canadian Rockies, Alberta

Ice Climbing Fearful Symmetry, Canadian Rockies, Alberta

Photograph by Forest Woodward

Getting the Shot
"When we arrived at the base of the pillar, there was another group with us who took one look and decided, 'No thanks, that's above our pay grade,' " recalls photographer Forest Woodward, who took this shot of ice climber Graham Zimmerman in the Canadian Rockies of Alberta. "I

actually wasn't aware of the ephemeral nature of the Fearful Symmetry route until we arrived in Canmore. Everyone spoke of it with a sort of reverence," says Woodward.
The group tackled a rough drive in Ghost Valley to make it to an area called Recital Hall, where this rare, icy route had formed. “I understood immediately why the route commands such respect," Woodward recalls.
The team faced a tough climb in, and Woodward fought snow devils coating his gear in fine, frozen snowy dust. “The added challenge of managing gear in inhospitable elements is part of what makes ice climbing such a niche sport,” says Woodward.
After his initial awe, Woodward was ready to photograph. “Once the actual climbing began, I brought all my focus to bear, trying to capture Graham's experience in a single image that would tap into the emotions he experiences as a climber on a pitch like this,” says Woodward.
Woodward photographed with a Canon 5D Mark III and Canon f/2.8 70-200mm lens.