The Winter X Games (@xgames) are officially underway! Whether you're attending the Winter X Games or simply hitting the slopes with friends, keep these photo tips from X Games photographer Brett Wilhelm (@wilhelmvisualworks) in mind: Know your equipment. Learn to control focus and exposure, especially when shooting bright snowfields or nighttime compositions, and check to see if your device has a burst mode for a better chance at catching an action shot. Take care of your gear by keeping your camera warm until it's time to shoot and using a waterproof case or plastic bag to keep it dry. When setting up your shot, think about where the action will be and find a position that guarantees a clean background to make the subject jump out. Avoid distracting objects in the corners of your frame. Remember that most action sports are judged on height, difficulty and stylistic mastery—try zooming out to show the larger context when your subject is at peak height or performing a trick. Finally (and most importantly) have fun! Keep shooting and don't be afraid to share your images with others.
For more photos and videos from the X Games, tap the blue location text above and follow Aspen Snowmass (@aspensnowmass), Canada snowboarder Mark McMorris (@markmcmorris), US snowboarder Shaun White (@shaunwhite), US Snowcross World Champion Tucker Hibbert (@tuckerhibbert) and US snowboarder Hannah Teter (@hannahteter). Photo by @wilhelmvisualworks