I started skydiving in Argentina back in 2000 doing the static line course. After a few jumps I was hooked and started working as a skydiving videographer in order to fund my hobby which I was very passionate about. I discovered that I was able to make a living with skydiving photography and quit my job with the Army, to dedicate myself completely to this career. Today, I have more than 10,000 skydives and I’ve jumped in many different parts of the world, each with its own unique character that I’ve been fortunate enough to capture on camera.
A very memorable jump was in 2012 when I filmed the Golden Knights – the United States Army Parachute Team after they won the World Parachuting Championships in Dubai. Another one was in Skydive Perris, California in 2013 when I filmed a 125-person formation. When working with big formation jumps like this, the formation is usually held just for a few seconds; sometimes it’s a split second when everyone has the correct grips on each other and manage to close the formation. So it’s crucial to be alert and get the shot at the right time because the photograph is the only documentation of the formation so it’s a lot of pressure.
Along with skydiving photography I also organize seminars occasionally to explain to people the complexities of taking photos while falling at 200 kmh. It’s something I do for individuals and companies who are interested in this unique sport.
Skydiving here in Dubai is really amazing since there aren’t a lot of other places in the world where you can see the tops of skyscrapers while flying your parachute. The city and the skyline are impressive sights and especially during sunset —it’s beautifully illuminated and a truly breathtaking sight. Here is quite a unique place to jump since you have the sea, the desert and the city all in the same place.
A few years ago I started collecting my pictures and decided to publish them in a book of skydiving photography. My book “Ultimate High – Skydiving Behind the Lens” includes photos I’ve taken in many different parts of the world, most of them being very special and memorable jumps and also with a narrative explaining my philosophy as a photographer and skydiver. The text is translated into three languages; English, Spanish and Arabic and it is the first skydiving photography book produced in over two decades. I feel very fortunate to be able to share my passion through pictures with everyone. I really hope people can enjoy them as much as I did taking them.
Words + Photos By: Juan Mayer
