Issue 1: Objects In The Mirror
Who's In Charge?
December 23, 2018
We sat down with Lynsey Dyer, the co-founder of SheJumps and creative powerhouse behind the all-women’s ski film Pretty Faces, to find out what’s changed for athletes since she began her career as a professional big mountain skier more than a decade ago. It should come as no surprise that the advent of the action camera, paired with social media, means that for the first time in her life, she’s in charge of telling her own story.
What’s changed for athletes since the invention of action cameras and selfie sticks?
I got to own my narrative. And I got to begin seeding the mass market with the vision that girls belong in action sports and tech, too. This image that I shot of myself graced magazines and the television, reaching millions on YouTube. Through this means I could help show that women belonged here too, doing shit, not just looking pretty. We’re in the coldest temps and highest places with technical equipment and having a blast. Not just pretty and posing like we are so programmed.
Why is it important to you to be able to create your own narrative?
Because for the first time in history I can. Women can. our grandmothers did not have this luxury and I owe it to them to own the privilege they dreamed of and that they paved the way for us to tell a story that many never thought to imagine. There are important stories not being told that would help empower more humans to belong, and their community, and reach their highest potential. I want to help share them all.
How do you think that the narrative around women athletes will evolve in the future?
It is building all the time but the patriarchy is still very much in charge. We have to own it. We have to stop waiting for the invite and ask ourselves what we want to see created in the world and what young girls need to hear and see.
What are your top tips for other Women Who Want to use action cameras to capture footage?
Practice. They are not a gimme. Batteries, cards, light...half the battle is being prepared when all the things come together...light...snow. Sparkles!!! And you gotta actually get out there. I see so many going for the easy poses for the likes, and now brands are going for it too. There’s a lot of pretty girls out there, but not many can charge. Set yourself apart. Do the hard shit. The skiing is the pay off folks.
And be better. Don’t be lazy. Be so damn good in your skillset they can’t ignore you. Don’t be the ‘female’ photographer or the ‘female’ writer. Just be the best.
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