Vallerret's Creative Outsiders: Radical stories from behind the lens – Détails, épisodes et analyse

To start things off with a bang, we’re heading north to Lofoten with travel photographer and Aurora expert Dave Williams. From a cozy fisherman’s cabin, he chats with us about how he became obsessed with winter photography… and how he once got chased by wolves at 4:30 in the morning. Yes, really. Dave is full of practical tips and hilarious “this only happens to photographers” moments.

In this episode, we dive into:
• Dave’s first-ever Northern Lights moment (and why it changed everything)
• How he actually predicts the Aurora without relying on dodgy apps
• What life in Lofoten is really like (weather chaos, fish racks & all)
• The layering system he uses to stay outside for hours (liners + photography gloves)
• How to keep your camera battery alive in deep cold
• Why “bad weather” usually turns into the best photography conditions
• The wolf story… because yes, that really happened
• Imposter syndrome and the pressure to “get the shot”
• The joy of helping people see the Aurora for the first time
• Cinnamon buns (because every photographer deserves a treat)

If you enjoy winter photography, dream of seeing the Aurora, or just love hearing creators talk about the weird, wild parts of their job, you’ll love this episode. It’s fun, relaxed, and full of super useful cold-weather tips.

Follow Dave Williams
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/idavewilliams
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@idavewilliams
Lofoten Insight Tours: https://lofotensight.com
Book: The Complete Aurora Guide (search online)

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Celebrating 10 Years of Radical Winter Gear built for photographers & creators who stay out longer.

Thanks for joining us for our very first episode of Vallerret’s Creative Outsiders.
If you enjoyed this conversation, send it to a fellow cold-loving creator — and go chase some wild weather.

Stay warm. Stay inspired. Stay out longer. 🧤🔥

This is Vallerret’s Creative Outsiders — Radical stories from behind the lens.
A podcast about the moments that change us, the places that shape us, and the creators who go where most people won’t.
Join hosts Lukas Riedl and Vallerret Co-Founder Carl van den Boom as they talk with photographers, filmmakers, drone pilots, and explorers about what really happens out there — beyond the cold, beyond the frame, beyond comfort.
Grab a hot drink. Settle in. And welcome to the outsiders.

Sarah Lyndsay, a Canadian fine art photographer and self-portrait artist known for her emotional imagery, storytelling, and her signature yellow dress.

Sarah shares how photography became a form of self-expression and a way to explore emotion, presence, and identity. She explains how placing herself in the frame is telling a story.

We talk about the thrill of shooting in –30°C, how sometimes you forget the cold because the moment feels magical, and why bad weather often leads to the most powerful images. She opens up about identity, pressure, and taking a break from social media, and learning to see herself not just as a photographer but as an artist.

• Why bad weather makes stronger, more emotional images
• Emotion, scale & storytelling through self-portrait work
• Shooting in –30°C and forgetting the cold
• The yellow dress and how visual identity develops
• Layering, boots, gloves & staying creative in freezing temps
• Artist vs. photographer — and why the difference matters
• Social media breaks & creative burnout
• Fine art galleries, collectors & making work that "feels"

Follow Sarah

Website: https://www.sarahlyndsayphotography.com

YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@sarahlyndsay⁠
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahlyndsayphotography

Facebook: https://facebook.com/sarahlyndsayphotography

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/sarahlyndsay_

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Stay warm. Stay inspired. Stay out longer. 🧤🔥

Meet Finnish legendary snowboarding photographer and longtime Vallerret friend Pasi Salminen. We discuss Pasi's extensive career in snowboarding photography, the challenges of capturing action shots in extreme conditions, and the transition from passion projects to commercial work. Pasi shares insights on maintaining creativity and positivity in a long career, the importance of collaboration with athletes, and how he manages the pressures of shooting high-stakes tricks. The conversation also touches on the unique aspects of urban photography versus powder shots, and Pasi's future aspirations in the field.

Watch the full video version on YouTube for extra visuals.

Takeaways

• Pasi Salminen has been a prominent figure in snowboarding photography for decades.
• Urban photography offers more creative freedom compared to powder shots.
• Capturing the right moment in action photography requires preparation and quick thinking.
• Maintaining a positive attitude is crucial for success in the creative industry.
• Transitioning from passion projects to commercial work can be a natural evolution for photographers.
• Collaboration with athletes is essential for achieving the best shots.
• Dealing with extreme cold is part of the job for snowboarding photographers.
• Finding inspiration in new environments helps keep creativity alive.
• Pasi emphasizes the importance of enjoying the work to avoid burnout.
• Safety is a top priority when shooting high-risk snowboarding tricks.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

02:30 Memorable Snowboarding Experiences

04:59 Urban vs. Powder Photography

07:14 The Art of Snowboard Photography

09:52 Managing Pressure in Photography

12:24 Transitioning to Commercial Work

14:55 Maintaining Passion in Photography

21:00 The Journey of a Photographer

22:54 Passion Projects and Creative Freedom

24:12 Collaboration in Snowboarding Photography

28:52 Dealing with Extreme Cold

32:06 Creative Drive and Future Aspirations

33:10 Quickfire Questions and Insights

Follow Pasi:

Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/pasisalminen/

Website: https://www.pasisalminen.com/

Eventphoto.fi: ⁠https://pasisalminen.fi/ep/

Red Bull Illume Profile: https://www.redbullillume.com/int-en/photographers/pasi-salminen

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Celebrating 10 Years of Winter Gear built for photographers & creators who stay out longer.

If this conversation made you feel nostalgic, send it to a fellow snow bum — and go chase some wild weather, with cameras and planks.

Stay warm. Stay inspired. Stay out longer. 🧤🔥

Sebastian Copeland — polar explorer, photographer, filmmaker, and environmental advocate. With 27 polar expeditions behind him, Sebastian takes us deep into the Arctic and Antarctic, sharing what it truly means to survive, document, and bear witness at the most hostile edges of our planet.

The conversation moves from harrowing encounters with polar bears and brutal storms on sea ice to the internal journeys shaped by solitude, endurance, and responsibility. Beyond the adventure, Sebastian reflects on climate science, human resilience, and why storytelling from the extremes matters more than ever.

Key Takeaways

• Extreme environments strip humans down before building them back up
• Preparation and discipline are the difference between survival and failure
• Polar bears are apex predators. Not symbols, but realities
• The greatest dangers in the Arctic are often weather and terrain, not wildlife
• Endurance is as much mental as it is physical
• Photography can turn suffering into meaning and advocacy
• Climate change is visible, measurable, and accelerating at the poles
• Hope requires action, not distance or denial

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Creative Outsiders
01:11 Meet Sebastian Copeland
02:24 27 Polar Expeditions & Life at the Poles
02:52 Arctic Sea Ice & Internal Breaking Points
03:42 Polar Bear Encounters Explained
08:08 Sleeping on the Ice & Bear Safety Systems
11:28 Charged by a Polar Bear — A Near-Fatal Moment
17:34 Following the Bear & Power Dynamics
20:12 What Really Kills You in the Arctic
21:39 Storms, Wind & Living Inside a Tent
25:10 Childhood, Books & Becoming a Polar Explorer
29:04 Science, Photography & Purpose
32:15 Preparation, Endurance & Mental Strength
36:12 Failure, Frostbite & Aborting a Mission
38:51 Falling Through Sea Ice
43:29 Risk, Loss & Perspective Over Time
45:14 Addiction to Extremes & Reflection
47:16 Photography as Memory & Meaning
49:28 Climate Change, Hope & Human Responsibility
55:29 Quickfire Questions & What’s Next

Follow Sebastian Copeland
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/copelandadventures/
Website: https://www.sebastiancopeland.com
Fine Art: https://www.scopelandfineart.com

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Celebrating endurance, responsibility, and creative work at the edge of human limits. If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who believes stories from the extremes can change how we see our planet.

Stay sharp. Stay curious. Stay out longer. 🧤🔥

Joana Braga, a drone pilot and designer from Portugal, now based in Iceland.Joana shares her journey into drone flying, the challenges of working in extreme weather, and her passion for capturing high-risk, high-reward visuals in extreme sports. The conversation explores mindset, preparation, representation for women in the drone industry, and Joana’s ambitions for future projects — including filming the Dakar Rally.

Key Takeaways

• Prepared, confident gear use matters more than over-caution
• Extreme weather adds technical and mental pressure
• Mindset and preparation define successful flights
• Great shots often require multiple attempts
• Women still face bias in drone and action sports industries
• Visibility and storytelling can shift perceptions
• Extreme motorsport filming demands risk awareness
• Adrenaline must be balanced with control

Chapters

00:00 Women Can Fly
00:50 Welcome to Creative Outsiders
01:10 Meet Joana Braga
01:49 Portugal to Iceland
02:13 Flying in Extreme Conditions
05:33 Fear, Nerves & Control
11:01 Getting Started With Drones
13:40 FPV, Speed & Tech Differences
17:32 Preparation & Decision Making
20:11 Motorsport & Extreme Action
23:14 Crashes, Repairs & Experience
30:02 Does Fear Ever Go Away?
34:11 Storytelling First
39:31 Design & Aviation Mindset
42:31 Women in a Male-Dominated Industry
49:39 Dream Projects & Dakar
54:21 Quickfire & What’s Next

Follow Joana Braga
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jfabraga/
Website: https://www.jfabraga.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@joanabraga6552
LinkedIn: https://pt.linkedin.com/in/joanabragadesign
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jfabraga/

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Newsletter: https://www.photographygloves.comCelebrating bold flying, real risk, and creative work beyond comfort zones. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a creator who chases the shot in tough conditions.

Stay sharp. Stay curious. Stay out longer. 🧤🚁

Rachel Bigsby, seabird photographer, wildlife storyteller, and conservation advocate, joins hosts Lukas Riedl & Carl van den Boom to dive deep into the world of seabird photography. From learning seabird behavior and fieldcraft to navigating online criticism and using photography as a force for protection and awareness.

Rachel shares how a fascination with northern fulmars became a career path with no plan B. We explore the balance between capturing the shot and fully experiencing nature, why patience and observation are foundational skills in wildlife photography, and how recognizing individual birds can create a deeper, more personal connection to the wild. The conversation also touches on the realities of building a photography career, advocacy responsibilities, and how recent achievements can open new doors.

Key Takeaways

• Rachel's journey into seabird photography began with a fascination for northern fulmars
• Capturing the moment is important, but experiencing nature is equally vital
• Finding a balance between photography and enjoying the experience is crucial
• Patience is key in wildlife photography; sometimes waiting pays off
• Understanding seabird behavior enhances photography skills
• Wildlife photography can be a challenging career path with no plan B
• Recognizing individual birds can create a deeper connection with nature
• Advocacy for seabird conservation is a responsibility for photographers
• Online criticism can be harsh, but staying true to one's passion is essential
• Achievements in photography can lead to greater opportunities and recognition

Chapters

00:54 Introduction to Creative Outsiders and Guest Rachel01:43 Rachel's Journey into Seabird Photography03:46 Memorable Experiences in the Field06:23 Balancing Photography and Experience
09:22 The Importance of Observation in Wildlife Photography
12:13 The Fascination with Seabirds
15:08 The Path to Becoming a Wildlife Photographer
16:36 The Role of Patience in Wildlife Photography
26:20 Final Thoughts on Wildlife Photography
27:30 The Journey of Patience and Perseverance
29:00 Establishing Wildlife Photography as a Career
31:22 The Importance of Passion in Photography
31:55 Advocacy for Wildlife Protection
36:07 Facing Online Hate and Industry Challenges
40:53 Achievements and Recognition in Wildlife Photography
43:08 Future Plans and Career Aspirations
47:30 The Pressure of Social Media and Success
51:03 Self-Compassion and Reflecting on the Journey
52:27 Quickfire Questions and Personal Insights

Follow Rachel Bigsby
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelbigsby/
Website: https://www.rachelbigsby.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RachelBigsby

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Celebrating patience, passion, and the photographers who use their craft to deepen our connection to the natural world. If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who believes wildlife stories can spark real care and real conservation.

Stay sharp. Stay curious. Stay out longer. 🧤🔥

Colby Brown, wildlife photographer, educator, and visual storyteller, talks about the realities of photographing wildlife up close, the power of intent in shaping stronger images, and why storytelling always matters more than gear or perfection. Colby shares his journey as a self-taught photographer, how COVID-19 created space for reflection and creative growth, and what it takes to balance a life of travel with family, purpose, and long-term happiness.

Key Takeaways

• Colby Brown has nearly 20 years of experience in photography
• Wildlife photography offers unique and intimate experiences with animals
• The emotional connection in photography is more important than the image itself
• Traveling and experiencing different cultures is essential for personal growth
• Intent in photography can lead to more meaningful images
• Colby emphasizes the importance of storytelling in photography
• Mistakes and failures are valuable learning experiences
• Education and sharing knowledge is a passion for Colby
• Finding a balance between work and family is crucial for happiness
• COVID-19 provided a unique opportunity for reflection and growth

Chapters

01:06 Introduction to Colby Brown's Journey
03:51 Wildlife Photography: The Silverback Gorilla Experience
06:32 The Importance of Connection in Photography
09:13 Intent and Experience in Photography
11:54 The Evolution of a Photographer
14:57 Capturing Emotion Through Visual Storytelling
17:32 The Role of Adaptability in Wildlife Photography
20:28 Learning from Mistakes and Embracing Failure
23:21 The Journey of a Self-Taught Photographer
26:04 Finding Unique Perspectives in Photography
28:44 Encouragement to Explore New Directions in Photography37:34 The Importance of Insurance and Sentimental Value
39:11 Lessons Learned from Experience
40:24 The Joy of Teaching and Sharing Experiences
42:25 Transitioning from Employee to Entrepreneur
44:07 Reflections on Technological Changes in Photography
46:06 Navigating Family Life and Travel
48:00 Bucket List Experiences and Future Aspirations
51:35 Finding Value in Experiences Over Photography
54:54 The Journey of Life: Embracing Ups and Downs
01:01:08 Experiences Over Images: A Philosophical Perspective

Follow Colby Brown
Instagram: @colbybrownphotography
Website: https://www.colbybrownphotography.com/

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Celebrating connection, storytelling, and the wild moments that shape us more than any final frame. If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who believes the greatest images aren’t just seen — they’re felt.

Stay sharp. Stay curious. Stay out longer. 🧤🔥

Virgil Reglioni, polar landscape photographer and relentless Aurora chaser, joins hosts Lukas Riedl & Carl van den Boom for a deep dive into what it really takes to create images in the coldest, most breathtaking places on Earth. From pre-visualizing the shot to working with risk, logistics, and pure uncertainty, this episode is a masterclass in making “impossible” photos happen.

Virgil shares the story of being lowered into a glacier moulin — a “monster hole” that felt like a black hole with no visible bottom — and how that moment ties directly into his wider creative process: building the image in your head first, then doing the work (and taking the hits) to bring it to life. We talk about layering: layering light, landscape, scale, story, and intention. And why simplifying gear, trusting your vision, and committing to the mission can unlock a whole new level of creative output.

Key Takeaways

• Pre-visualization matters: Virgil often “draws” the image in his mind before arriving on location
• Some of the strongest photos come from layering: light, landscape, scale, and story working together
• Extreme environments force better composition — sometimes you have no choice but to improve
• Simplifying gear can reduce decision fatigue and increase creative focus in harsh conditions
• Adding a human element (a silhouette) can create scale and emotional impact in vast landscapes
• Creative mission ideas may sound crazy — committing to them is often the point
• Teamwork and trust matter when working in technical terrain
• Time is limited — choosing what you still go out to shoot defines your work
• The moulin story shows some frames are earned, not found
• Curiosity and persistence sit behind breakthrough images

Chapters

00:00 The “Monster Hole” (Glacier Moulin) Hook
00:58 Welcome to Creative Outsiders
01:40 Virgil’s Work: Aurora & Polar Landscapes
11:19 Entering Iceland’s Glaciers for the Frame
12:08 The Project Origin Story
14:24 Reaching the Ice Surface: Timing & Constraints
16:01 Seeing the Composition From Inside the Scene
19:53 Pre-Visualizing the Image
24:59 Moving Through a Frozen World
27:28 Problem Solving the Shot
29:26 Reading Terrain & Background Layers
30:45 Layering Light & Landscape
37:40 Gear Philosophy: Keeping It Simple
38:54 Creativity Mindset
44:09 Layering as a Creative Principle
46:28 Drawing the Image Before Going There
48:22 Committing to “Crazy” Ideas
50:19 Learning Because You Have No Choice
55:55 Creating While Life Happens
61:13 Outro

Follow Virgil Reglioni
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/virgilreglioniphotography/
Website: https://www.virgilreglioni.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/virgil.reglioni/
Secret Atlas Feature: https://www.secretatlas.com/blog/stories/virgil-reglioni
Vallerret Ambassador Profile: https://photographygloves.com/blogs/vallerret-ambassadors/virgil-reglioni
Muench Workshops: https://muenchworkshops.com/our-team/virgil-reglioni/

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Celebrating the creatives who chase the shot when comfort says “stay home.” If this episode sparked something in you, share it with someone building a vision and needing that final push to commit.

Stay sharp. Stay curious. Stay out longer. 🧤🔥

Katie Orlinsky, conflict and environmental photographer known for documenting social issues, climate change, and life in the Arctic, joins hosts Lukas Riedl & Carl van den Boom for a conversation about storytelling, responsibility, and the evolving role of documentary photography in a rapidly changing world.

Katie shares how her work shifted from covering social issues and conflict zones to documenting the fragile beauty of the Arctic and the realities of climate change. Through her experiences photographing remote northern communities, sled dog races like the Yukon Quest, and environmental transformations unfolding across the Arctic, she reflects on the power of images to connect audiences to stories they might otherwise never encounter.

We explore the balance between beauty and urgency in visual storytelling, the ethics of documenting vulnerable communities, and the importance of building trust and human connection in documentary work. Katie also discusses the practical and emotional challenges of working in extreme environments and why responsibility and truth sit at the heart of impactful storytelling.

Key Takeaways

• Katie’s journey from conflict and social issue photography to environmental storytelling in the Arctic
• The Arctic offers a powerful visual window into the realities of climate change
• Balancing beauty with urgency helps audiences connect emotionally to difficult topics
• Ethical storytelling requires deep respect and trust with the people being photographed
• Human connection is essential to meaningful documentary photography
• Working in remote and extreme environments requires preparation, patience, and adaptability
• Photography can act as a bridge between distant communities and global audiences
• Documentary photographers carry a responsibility to tell stories truthfully and respectfully

Chapters

00:00 Cold Open — Risk in the Arctic vs Conflict Zones00:37 Welcome to Creative Outsiders01:09 Introducing Katie Orlinsky01:28 The First Question: A Moment That Changed Everything01:45 Katie’s First Trip to the Arctic02:11 Photographing the Yukon Quest Dog Sled Race04:57 Experiences in the Arctic and Their Impact09:24 Transitioning from Conflict Zones to Environmental Photography13:25 Balancing Beauty and Urgency in Storytelling17:33 Ethical Considerations in Documentary Photography31:25 Conclusion and Future Directions

Follow Katie Orlinsky
Website: https://katieorlinsky.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/katieorlinsky/Twitter: https://twitter.com/katieorlinsky

Resources & Mentions
Environmental Photography Tips by Katie Orlinsky: https://example.com/environmental-photography-tips
The Yukon Quest Sled Dog Race: https://yukonquest.com
Conflict Photography Ethics Guide: https://example.com/conflict-photography-ethics

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Celebrating the creatives who chase the shot when comfort says “stay home.” If this episode sparked something in you, share it with someone building a vision and needing that final push to commit.

Stay sharp. Stay curious. Stay out longer. 🧤🔥