RUN X TRAIL
There's something truly invigorating in nature, letting the rhythm of your feet guide you along a path, and feeling that incredible connection with the environment. We recently had the pleasure of capturing this raw energy and passion with XTEP at Sydney's sea cliffs and surrounds.
The brief was clear: showcase the dynamism and spirit of trail running. Sydney provided a spectacular backdrop.
We found ourselves amidst breathtaking coastal landscapes, where rugged cliffs met the expansive blue of the Pacific. It's in these moments, surrounded by such natural grandeur, that you truly appreciate the blend of challenge and serenity that trail running offers.
Our aim, as always, was to tell a story through every frame.
Capturing the focus needed on trails, the vibrant colours of the XTEP gear complementing the natural backdrop, and the sheer joy of movement reflected in their strides. We sought to capture those moments – the quiet determination, the shared experience, and the exhilaration of pushing your limits in a beautiful setting.
From the subtle details of the XTEP 'speed' branding on the fabric, catching the light just so, to the full sweep of runners silhouetted against the wide-open sky with their reflections dancing in the water, each image is a homage to the power of human spirit and the allure of the trail.
We embraced the natural light, small lights, the shifting clouds, and even those moody, overcast skies that add such a dramatic feel to the landscape.
Photography isn't just about what you see, but how you feel. With the Xtep Sydney Trail project, we truly felt the freedom, the focus, and the profound connection to the outdoors.
It was a day filled with incredible energy, beautiful moments, and the kind of genuine collaboration that makes the work so rewarding.
Some images and an inside look to how we shot this for XTEP.
A big thanks to Lucie who managed this project from Toronto - with clients, agency in China and production team in Australia. It takes someone special to wrangle the troops globally!
Team and Tools:
Robin Marril | Lucie Zhong, Production | Fernando Kularatne, Styling | Jazmin Way | Nathan Smith, Video
Nikon Z8 | 70-200mm | 35mm | 50mm | 85mm Nikkor Z | Profoto A1 x 2
Pre-Colored on Capture One | Retouched and graded on Photoshop CC
