Exclusive interview with Ismael Ruiz

Dear Ismael, Congratulations, your picture has won the second place in the BIKE Magazine Photography Contest 2021. Your winner picture is breathtaking. We would like to hear your story.

Firstly, can you tell me a couple of things about you?

I’m a Spaniard from Burgos. My passion for photography and BMX are linked. One time I had an injury when I was riding, so after the accident I decided to buy a camera to document the local scenes and develop my photographic ideas about this sport.

Please describe the winning photo.

After a long session with David Cachon in Mallo de Rilos (Spain), at sunset, I was able to snap this epic picture when he was already resting.

Can you tell me about your achievements?

Thanks to practising BMX I’ve developed a unique photography style that has allowed me to work with important firms in the field like BMX and MTB over the past years. I’ve been awarded by prestigious photography contests like:

Redbull y Illume 2013, Top five

Redbull y Illume 2016, Top 20

IPA 2020 3rd position at extreme games.

How would you describe your style?

I like experimenting not only with the moment itself, but with snapping the rider in unique settings, always looking after unusual spots where action can take place.

Why did you choose this contest?

All the action photography contests are a challenge to me, an extra motivation to continue making great photos.

Do you have a project what would like to share?

Yes, I’m working on a BMX project for which we are looking for funds to carry it out. It’s about a rider’s story... That’s all I can tell.

What is the best advice you received?

I’d say it’s more of an acknowledgment than some advice: there’s no picture without a rider!

Thank you so much. I would like to congratulate again and hopefully you will earn more success in the future.

You can check out Ismael’s breathtaking artworks on Instagram: @ismaelibanezphoto