Epic Mountain Bike Photography

June 27, 2022 Devon Balet

When you’re visiting any of the most picturesque mountain bike trails in the country or overseas, it would be a mistake not to take photographs. Not only is mountain biking a great sport to capture in action, but there are also a lot of incredible views you can see on the way.

As a professional photographer, I’ve been often hired to do photography and videography in large recreational and mountain bike events. I know how to properly set up my equipment and when it is best to take a shot, giving my clients the high-quality photos they are expecting.

But let’s be honest, not everyone has the equipment, expertise, and time in taking up striking mountain bike photos. However, that doesn’t mean you won’t be able to take good pictures yourself. Whether you're using a GoPro or just your phone’s camera, there are a few basic mountain bike photography tricks you can do to improve your shots.

By the way. If you love any of the photography you’re about to see, you can find more and purchase Mountain Bike Photography prints at: https://devonbaletmedia.picfair.com/

Here are some MTB photography tricks I would like to share with you:

Rule of Thirds

If you know a little bit about photography, you’ve probably heard about this trick before. This rule allows you to capture a more aesthetically pleasing photo compared to when your subject is positioned in the middle.

To achieve a stunning photo that adheres to this rule, you should divide the shot into thirds horizontally and vertically. Your camera may have this option or you can just visualize it in your head. The way you break up the shot doesn’t need to be perfect. You just need to make sure that the point of interest or subject will be located on a third.

Mountain Bike Photography Thirds — The idea of “thirds” doesn’t need to be perfect. It’s more about creating space in the photo and naturally inviting people to look in certain places.

Angles

Finding the perfect angle is important to emphasize the photo’s subjects and make the shot more striking. Achieve better-angled photos by refraining from capturing eye-level shots. You can try to get as low as you can to capture the intensity of the biker and dramatize the photo’s effect.

Lighting

When it comes to lighting, make sure that you can take full advantage of the natural light available. I would recommend taking photos in the morning or afternoon to give your photos a more inviting look. Capturing excellent photos can be difficult at midday due to the harsh light the sun produces.

Best Mountain Bike Trails

If you’re into mountain biking and love to take photos, then you’re in luck as the United States has countless mountain bike trails across the land. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced biker, there are a lot of spots where you can enjoy the sport while enjoying scenic views. With this, you will be able to enjoy your love for mountain biking and photography at the same time.

Here are some of the best mountain bike trails around the country that you should try:

Monarch Crest

One of the go-to mountain bike trails in Colorado is Monarch Crest, which is located at Isabel National Forest. What mountain bikers love about this trail is that it’s quite an extreme, high-alpine ride. Despite that, the trail is smooth, with little to no rocks that obstruct the way.

There are also spectacular views of valleys and mountains at Monarch Crest. You should not miss out on taking beautiful photos of this trail’s picture-perfect scenery. There are also hot springs on this trail where you can relax with other mountain bikers.

Mountain Biking in Monarch Crest — Colorado has so many incredible views. Getting out on your mountain bike opens a world of possibilities.

Lunch Loop

Another great mountain bike trail in Colorado is the Lunch Loops Trail System. By going on an adventure here, you’ll be able to experience challenging terrain and splendid scenery. Located just a few miles away from Grand Junction, this trail is pretty accessible to locals and tourists.

Lunch Loop is near the entrance of the Colorado National Monument, so you can guarantee that you’ll see unbelievably scenic views when you go on a biking trip here. Make sure that you can take photos of the different spectacular sceneries around this bike park.

Western Colorado Mountain Biking — Western Colorado is home to some of the world’s best mountain biking. It is a massive mountain bike destination that also happens to be my home base.

Divide Trail

If ever you’re in Steamboat Springs, there is an incredible single-track biking trail you should experience, which is known as Divide Trail. The best thing about this trail is the scenic views you can take a glimpse at when you go on an adventure here. From striking ranch land views to picturesque alpine forests, Divide Trail will surely not disappoint when it comes to stunning sceneries.

To immortalize the moment, make sure that you can take photos and videos of your Divide Trail adventure. Take a shot of every magnificent view you encounter as you embark on this epic ride.

Mountain Photography — Riding near the mountain towns comes with some chilly moments. So long as you’re dressed warmly though, even late fall, mild winter, or early spring rides make for incredible experiences.

Mills Peak

Mountain biking originated in California, which is why it’s not surprising that there are many spectacular biking trails all around the state. One of the most thrilling trails is Mills Peak, which is a 15-mile out and back trail that takes around six hours to fully complete.

Mills Peak is an underrated trail system that every mountain biker should try. You may also drop by at the Mills Peak Fire Lookout, which gives you a splendid view of the counties of Plumas and Sierra. Of course, as always, don’t forget to take photos and videos to have something to always remember this epic adventure.

Mountain Bike Adventures — Mountain bike photography comes in many forms. Sometimes it’s about the awesome air. Sometimes the scenery. And sometimes it’s about the rider and how muddy they get.

Wasatch Crest

When we talk about the sport, a lot of mountain bikers immediately think of Utah as one of the best places with the most exhilarating trails. You can find different types of terrain in Utah, making the adventure more fun and challenging. From dialed bike parks to cross-country trails, Utah offers an extensive variety of mountain bike spots.

One of the best ones you should try is Wasatch Crest. This mountain bike trail has a 400-mile interconnected singletrack created by professional trail builders. What’s more, Wasatch Crest is the only mountain bike trail in the US that is recognized as a “gold-level ride center” by the International Mountain Bicycling Association. The views are incredible in Wasatch Crest as well, so don’t forget to take high-quality photos and videos while you’re here.

Utah Mountain Bike Photography — There’s a reason so many people love mountain bike photography…

Make the Most of Your Mountain Bike Adventure

Whichever mountain trail you decide to explore, the most important thing is you have fun. Don’t forget to capture all the exciting moments and all the amazing views. Taking photos will give you a way to freeze memories of you doing something you like. With this, you will be able to document your adventure and be able to express yourself creatively. Who knows? If you’ve really made a nice shot, you can end up having a nice photo that you can use as a mountain bike wallpaper for your phone or laptop.

How Much Is a Mountain Bike?

June 24, 2022 Devon Balet

The fact that you’re here searching for an answer to this question likely means that you’re new to the sport of mountain biking. If so, then welcome! As cliche as it may sound, the starting line is always the hardest part, but it only gets easier and more fun from there.

As a lifestyle photographer and a nature lover, I often find myself in the company of mountain bikers. I’m always fascinated by the high-tech equipment and the athletes' attire. There’s something about mountain biking that just looks cool and effortless.

But for someone looking for the best way to start mountain biking, the most important question is probably not how cool it looks. You’re more likely interested in how much a mountain bike costs.

how much is a mountain bike — Mountain biking is so worth the initial investment. The kinds of experiences you can have exploring the outdoors is unbeatable.

Mountain Bike Cost

On average, starters pay anywhere between $400 to $800 for a beginner-level mountain bike. For those looking for something a little more mid-end, be prepared to spend at least $2,000. Top-tier bikes easily go for $10,000. Don’t be worried by the numbers though, as you can certainly get very decent bikes at affordable costs.

To help you out, I've collected some of the most important factors to consider when looking for a mountain bike, as well as the average cost of each type of bike. I hope that this article will help you make a decision on what kind of bike you should buy.

HardTail: A Budget- and Beginner-Friendly Option

From someone who’s just starting out the sport, I personally recommend that you choose a hardtail as your first mountain bike. It’s more budget-friendly compared to full-suspension, and it helps you get a feel for the sport before you make a bigger investment.

Hardtail bikes have fewer moving parts which mean that maintenance costs are lower and it’s easier to fix if something goes wrong. It is an obvious choice by many cross-country riders because it provides a more powerful and direct pedal-to-rear tire contact, which is beneficial for flat and fast terrains.

The only downside I can say about the hardtail is that this type of bike is known for its weight and rigidity. These factors make it less suitable for steep and technical descents. But again, for someone new to the sport who just want to start riding, this should not be a problem.

You can get an entry-level hardtail bike for as low as $450. For fancier bikes with top-of-the-line components such as carbon fiber frames, you’re looking at anywhere from the $1,000 price point.

When it comes to mountain biking, there are tons of options available today. Sometimes, the best way is to learn just enough to make a decision. Then, hit the trails and singletracks. Once you’ve been riding for a while, you’ll definitely learn what you like best.

Full-Suspension: For the More Experienced Riders

Full-suspension bikes are definitely the more popular choice among mountain bikers, and for good reasons. They provide superior handling, grip, and comfort on all types of terrain. It helps that these bikes look really cool, too. Not to mention that the additional suspension soaks up a lot of impact from rocks and roots, giving you a smoother ride.

Unlike a normal hardtail bike, full-suspension bike manufacturers produce this type of bike in a more detailed manner as they add pivot points, bearings, and linkages to the design. No wonder these bikes are more expensive, with an average starting price of $1,000, plus.

While the average cost of a decent full-suspension bike is $1,700, the sky is really the limit when it comes to how much you want to spend on a full-suspension bike. If you want a more reliable bike that you can enjoy for many years, then at least look at the $2,500 range.

Opt for trusted brands like Specialized, Santa Cruz, or Trek as they offer good quality full-suspension bikes at a fair price point.

How Much Is A Mountain Bike For Downhill Biking — Once you go up, you get to go down!

Downhill: For the Adrenaline Junkies

Downhill is an extreme style of mountain biking. Thus, getting something to accommodate this riding style will protect you and your equipment as you take on very steep and technical trails. Downhill bikes are technically full-suspension bikes but are built in a more complex way as downhill bikes encounter more stress than your usual full-suspension bike.

On average, you can expect to spend at least $4,000 on getting your hands on a good quality downhill bike. Of course, as with anything else, the price goes up depending on the quality. Materials such as titanium and carbon fiber frames, as well as top-of-the-line suspension and components.

No Problem With Budget? Then Go All Out!

At a glance, you may not imagine that a bike with two wheels, a skinny body frame, and handlebars could be worth $10,000. Given the progress of technology, some high-end mountain bikes nowadays are worth that much money, and even more. From electronic suspension to wireless shifting, these bikes have it all.

Even a single carbon fiber frame can cost you $1,700 to up to $4,000 or more. While it’s not necessary to have the most expensive bike on the market, it is important to spend your money wisely on a bike that you will actually enjoy riding.

What I can say is that, first, assess your riding style and then find a bike that will fit your needs the most. Second, don't forget to factor in maintenance costs, as some bikes require more frequent tune-ups than others. Finally, consider your skills as a rider so you can better find a mountain bike that complements your abilities.

Wrapping Up

As someone who encounters riders, bike companies, and enthusiasts in a frequent manner, I've had my fair share of experience when it comes to mountain bikes.

Feel free to use this guide as a starting point in your search for the perfect mountain bike. If you want to learn more, search for other mountain bike guides on the internet, or better yet, ask around your local bike shop or a friend who is into mountain biking.

There are many different types of mountain bikes available on the market, so it’s important that you do your research before making a purchase. But at the end of the day, the most important thing is that you join the many other mountain bike enthusiasts out on a great ride.

Mountain Bike Group — You don’t find fields of flowers like these every day. We had to go back quite a ways to find it!

Joshua Tree Skin Care

June 16, 2022 Devon Balet

Growing up in Colorado, playing in the outdoors is a way of life. With that play comes plenty of cuts, scraps and bruises. In high school and college I was an avid rock climber, and if you want to talk about rough hands, look at any climber and you will see the definition of dry cracked hands.

One remedy that I quickly learned about was a product called Joshua Tree Climbing Salve. This beeswax based product works magic on dry crack skin, healing it almost instantly. J-Tree Salve, as I affectionately call it, has become a staple in my medicine cabinet, even after giving up climbing years ago. The cool, soothing salve moistens skin deeply, allow it to naturally repair itself more quickly.

What is it and how do you use it?

It is no secret that the power of CBD and the hemp plant has become more popular in the main stream market. Since their humble beginnings of producing a great product specifically aimed to climbers, Joshua Tree Skin Care has upped the natural healing power ante with their new CBD Warming Balm + Arnica + Menthol.

Soothe your aches and promote recovery with 1,000mg CBD plus Arnica and Menthol in this luxurious warming recovery balm. This potent blend of CBD derived from the hemp plant uses the natural power of Arnica extract and the cooling properties of Menthol relieves soreness and inflammation from arthritis, tendonitis, and the wear and tear of your active lifestyle.

CBD Warming Balm is to be applied sparingly and messaged generously. This warming balm is designed for going deep in your massage. It stays lubricious for 10+ minutes and is great for targeted self massage or partner massage. The next time you are sore from a big day of riding or hiking, give this stuff a shot!

Active ingredients?

There are four active ingredients in the Joshua Tree Warming Balm; CBD, Arnica Extract, Menthol and Clove Essential Oil. *information provided by manufacturer.

CBD (from hemp) naturally promotes pain relief & recovery. Some research indicates that Full Spectrum CBD has the highest efficacy, as all 113 Cannabinoids work in concert together. This Full Spectrum CBD is below the federal legal limit of 0.3% THC. If you want to avoid THC (thats the molecular component that can make you feel "high") look for our THC Free Isolate products.

Arnica Extract: Fresh, whole Arnica flowers slow roasted for two weeks to extract the naturally occurring anti-inflammatory Helenalin.

Menthol: In addition to anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, organic menthol provides a soothing cooling effect and stimulates circulation.

Clove Essential Oil: A natural warming agent to soothe and stimulate blood flow.

What is it like?

The Joshua Tree CBD Salve has a great soothing feel as soon as it is applied. The product stays lubricious just as stated which makes this a great massaging aid. When applied you will immediately feel the cooling sensation of the menthol, followed by the loosening of tight muscles and joints. I suffered from a bad wrist injury several years back and this product works great for loosening up my tight hand as the result of a wrist fusion. The effects are lasting making this a great daily use option.

Initial reactions?

I have long been a fan of the Joshua Tree Skin Care products so this new product is an easy win for me. The great skin healing benefits that Joshua Tree Skin Care is known for with the added benefits of CBD, Arnica and Menthol to help with body stiffness and soreness. I felt immediate relieve from the tightness I experience in my hand every day, leaving my hand feeling much more mobile and with far less stiffness and aches.

Should you use it?

I would highly recommend this product for anyone seeking relieve for body stiffness and muscle soreness. I was very impressed how little amount of product was needed to cover the needed area and how well it stayed lubricious to allow the use of less product to get the needed massaging completed. This is a great option for those working long days with their hands or after a big day of playing hard. Apply directly to the area effected by stiffness and soreness and be prepared for that to melt away leaving you with a soothing calming effect. Be sure to check out the full line of Joshua Tree Skin Care products at jtreelife.com.

Mountain Biking Origins

May 6, 2022 Devon Balet

It’s no secret that over the pandemic, everyone is ready to get out, be active and be social. The mountain bike is a great tool to do just that. Since 2019, mountain bike sales have skyrocketed as people have rediscovered the joys of getting outside and getting their blood pumping. In the most recent 12 months compared to two years ago, sales of mountain bikes increased by a whopping 70%!

No wonder more people are getting into mountain biking than ever before.

The Birthplace of Mountain Bikes

There is some debate of the birthplace of the mountain bike, but it can generally be agreed it was the riders of Marin County, California. These adventure seekers modified their cruiser and road bikes, retrofitting wide balloon tires and moto handlebars to create what would become the modern mountain bike.

Racing down the fire roads of Mount Tamalpais in “Re-pack Race” coined the name as the riders had to continuously repack the grease in their hubs. Around the same time a small group of riders in Crested Butte, Colorado mistakenly created the Pearl Pass Tour, riding their modified cruiser bikes up and over Pearl Pass from Crested Butte to Aspen. From their enthusiasm and desire to continuously push the limits of their bicycles, the mountain bike was born.

Growing up in Western Colorado mountain biking was a large part of my life. Beginning at the age of fourteen, I worked in bike shops all the way through college until beginning my career as an adventure lifestyle photographer. My time as a bicycle mechanic really helped me understand the mountain bike and what it has to offer.

Hardtail and Full Suspension

Today, there are generally two different kinds of mountain bikes; hardtail and full suspension. A hardtail mountain bike generally has a front suspension fork but no suspension in the rear. This style of mountain bike is popular because they are generally lighter weight, making them faster and easier to pedal.

A full suspension mountain bike has suspension on the front wheel as well as the rear wheel. This style of mountain bike is largely more popular because of the comfort as well as the increased capability the rear suspension offers.

When zeroing in on one style of mountain bike you find endless sub-genres and options. The shear volume of choices can be a bit overwhelming, and feel a bit crippling. I am here to share some of my experiences of mountain bikes to offer guidance through the process of choosing the right mountain bike for you!

Popular Brands

My very first mountain bike was a Specalized Rockhopper. A wildly popular mountain bike in the late 90s, a hardtail mountain bike which I rode for nearly 8 years. In college I began riding Banshee Bikes. These mountain bikes were different from other brands focusing more on the ride and less on details like weight. Now, 17 years later I am still riding a Banshee mountain bike, the Banshee Phantom.

Some other popular brands to look into are: Santa Cruz, Salsa, GT, and Trek.

However, the best bet is to find your local bike shop and see what they have to offer. Taking a test ride on a mountain bike before purchasing is always a good idea as every bike provides a different fit and feel.

Best Places to Ride

Now you may be wondering where you should ride your mountain bike. The beauty of mountain bikes is the wide variety of terrain they are capable of riding over. It could be a simple ride down a bike path, a dirt road or even single track. Riding off road single track is by far the most popular use for a mountain bike.

You may not have the best options of single track in your area, so I wanted to provide some popular destinations in my home state of Colorado.

By far my favorite place to ride is in Fruita/Grand Junction. I do call Grand Junction home, after all. This is definitely a must0visit location for mountain biking. The iconic 18 Roads of Fruita offer some of the smoothest, most giggle-inducing trails you will ever ride. “The Ribbon” in Grand Junction delivers 1,500 feet of warp speed downhill over the course of 3 miles.

If you plan to make a trip to the Fruita/Grand Junction area, you should also consider signing up for a shuttle and taking the plunge on the Palisade Plunge Trail. This 32 mile long trail begins on the Grand Mesa and ends 6,000 feet lower in the town of palisade. This is definitely not recommended for beginners, so be sure you are ready for a hard long mountain bike ride if taking the plunge.

A mountain bike trip to Colorado wouldn’t be complete without a stop over in iconic Crested Butte. Whether you are a seasoned pro or brand new to the sport, Crested Butte has epic mountain bike trails waiting for you. Pedal the high-elevation singletrack through wildflower meadows and aspen groves. There are also lift-served mountain bike park trails at the resort in Mt. Crested Butte.

mountain biking crested butte — Gorgeous Summertime rides.

Favorite Rides in Crested Butte

Some of my favorite rides of Crested Butte, in no particular order: Lupine Trail offers easy access from town and great sunset views. Ride through handlebar tall lupine flowers before flying through some of the most dense aspen groves you will ever see. Another must do mountain bike ride in Crested Butte is trail 401. Starting off with a lung burning climb to the high point of 11,351 feet before sending you downhill through some of the thickest and tallest wildflowers you will ever experience.

Love Your Bike and It Will Love You

To say that mountain biking has shaped my life would be a bit of an understatement. Since an early age I have used my mountain bike to explore my town, state, country and world. I am thankful for this incredible exploration tool and want to see more people fall in love with mountain biking as well.

Mountain Bike: What You Mean to Me

April 3, 2022 Devon Balet

Thinking back, I recall some of my first memories with a mountain bike. My initial one was a Huffy, bought with money saved from a paper route...

Custom Zoom background images

April 16, 2020 Devon Balet

Zoom is becoming a big part of all our lives now, but you don’t have you show your house in the background.

Backyard Exploration

May 28, 2017 Devon Balet

My career has long been a travel intensive one, having me on the road for most of the year, logging more days in an airplane then in my home town. This year that is changing. I am making a point to source more work locally in Grand Junction and spending more time exploring my hometown. Yesterday I went for a day hike in Mee Canyon. A tough but amazingly beautiful hike, this is an easy day trip for me. I am loving where I live!

Excerpt from "Dealing With A Shitty Hand"

November 24, 2016 Devon Balet

As the anesthesiologist wipes my neck with an antiseptic wipe, I pull back slightly. The sudden cool moisture takes me off guard, making me jump.

“Oh, sorry Devon. I should have warned you it would be cold,” replied the caring doctor but I say nothing.

Looking out past my out stretched legs, I watch the assistant draw up the Versed from a vial; just beyond my parents walk out of sight back to the waiting room of Vail Surgical Center. This medication would in essence make me not have a single care and wipe my mind clean of what was about to happen. The anesthesiologist continues to prep my neck and shoulder for the nerve block about to be implanted.

As I watch the assistant flick the full syringe, clearing it of air bubbles, everything suddenly rushes down on me like the crash of an imploded build. Every emotion and feeling comes to light. Every compressed pain is suddenly felt and what is about to happen fully sets in.

I begin crying. Slowly at first, then heavily. No sound is made, my face is blank, I do not blink, but tears fall from my eyes like an open faucet. Quickly my face and beard are wet, soaked from my falling tears. Not going unnoticed the Doctor quickly comes to my side. “Are you ok? Are you in pain?”

“I am ok. I am just really not looking forward to this.”

“You will do great Devon! You will be back to normal in no—.”

“Just give me the shot.”

I cut him off as I let my head fall back, fully relaxing my body. I lay there, looking up at the ceiling seeing my future play out in the new altered way. The new Devon. Things will forever be different.

“Ok, Devon, here we go. You’ll feel some coolness in the IV then you should feel good.”

I don’t look up to watch him inject the medication into my IV. I feel the coolness. Then, slowly, so very slowly… nothing. I am pain free and feel nothing. Then; nothing. Black. Empty. Nothing.

After two previously failed surgeries, my wrist was fully fused. Never to bend again being held by fusing bones, a titanium plate and eight screws.

Ride for Reading

June 22, 2016 Devon Balet

Ride for Reading is a Nashville based non-profit that I have had the great honor to work with for several years now. Delivering books to low income students via bicycles is right up my alley. This great organization has donated hundreds of thousands of books since it began in 2008.

A few weeks ago the organization experienced a robby at the home of the Executive Director. The following is a note from JC.

On the morning of Tuesday June 14th an incident occurred. As a result of this situation Ride for Reading took a loss of equipment. The thieves stole the organization’s main computer, a tablet that was used for programming and a hot spot used for mobile connectivity.

The laptop and tablet were both password protected and authorities believe that the equipment’s data will be purge by the suspects. However, we are taking precautionary steps and resetting all of our passwords in all databases containing donor information. At this time there are no signs that indicate a breach to our platforms, website, social media, or donor data base.

This equipment was integral to the day to day operations of Ride for Reading. In order for our mission to continue we most replace the stolen items. Therefore, we are asking the public for support in covering the cost of replacing this equipment.

I am auctioning this print to help support Ride for Reading in getting the equipment replaced. This 20x30 metal print will be the only print created of this images and will numbered, signed and delivered to the highest bidder. All proceeds will go directly to Ride for Reading. For more information on the organization please visit their website.

Open bid is set to $500 and will stay open until July 4th. Winner will be announced on July 5th. To bid simply leave a comment below. Payments can be made in a multitude of ways and a tax deductible write off is available.

Shoulders of Giants

March 16, 2016 Devon Balet

I recently started working with a new website, shouldersofgiants.com. It has been a great outlet for me to do more writing, which is working out well for my broken hand. I am anticipating to announce some exciting news in the near future about Shoulders of Giants, but in the mean time here is a link to all my recent work for them.

E promos

March 15, 2016 Devon Balet

Falling behind on sharing my e promos. This was the second e promo for my marketing year that went out back in November. The images are from Alaska and the Colorado Trail.

The third e promo for my marketing year features two images from Alaska. The top is the Exit Glacier outside of Seward, Alaska and the bottom was a bear paw print seen from the saddle.

Denver Global Instameet

November 23, 2015 Devon Balet

I am definitely way off the back with this post. I continue to want to make regular blog posts and continue to fall short. Back in late October I traveled to Denver for a weekend of Halloween fun and my first Instagram Meetup, or Instameet. It was a fun experience, getting to meet some Denver local photographers. Little did I know that this would be the very tip of a deep iceberg I am still exploring! Instagram may very well be the best thing to happen to the creative world in recent future. That is if you know how to use it!

This Instameet sent photographer on a visual scavenger hunt down Colfax Avenue. It was a lot of fun to get an assignment of sorts, to hunt out and capture things you may not normal think to photograph. It was truly an eye opening experience! Follow the experience on my Instagram account.

E promo #1

August 17, 2015 Devon Balet

Agency Access

I am currently entering my second year with Agency Access. Last year went extremely well, getting my name and work in front of some huge brands and companies. I am continuing to market myself beyond the bike industry, going after companies like United Airlines, LuLuLemon, ESPN Magazine, Lifetime Fitness, Patagonia and many more.

I am excited for my second year of marketing to kick off with this new e promo. The images featured in this promo are from my Colorado Trail attempt last year with Dejay Birtch.

Losing a friend I never had

August 3, 2015 Devon Balet

Hike a bike to the top of Star Pass outside of Crested Butte, Colorado.

This past weekend the mountain bike community lost a good man. I don’t know Will Olson personally, but that will never matter. Will was just like me, just like all the great friends I have. Will loved to ride his mountain bike and he was good at it. Really good.

The tragic events really started to hit home when I realized I had captured a shot of Will last year, on the very trail that took his life. To this day, I can remember him flying by, smashing through a creek crossing that seemed to give racers trouble. He made it look like a puddle with the ease he crossed it. His speed and control looked like a monster truck blowing up a mud hole with hundreds of horse power behind it. Throwing mud and water into the air as though a stick of dynamite blew up as he past by. I let out the loudest yell of excitement! I love seeing racers excel.

Will Olson on Trail 400 during the 2014 Crested Butte Ultra Enduro.

Will was your average Colorado mountain boy. He loved riding bikes and snowboarding, and he was talented at both. He camped at the races, sleeping in the dirt, just like I do. The more I learn about Will, the more I realize this was my friend. We have shared a cheers, I am sure of it. I have cheered him on down the mountain, and gave well wishes at the top. There is no doubt in my mind.

The days following our loss of Will’s physical self, the rains have hardly let up. I like to think it is Mother Nature washing Herself of what happened. A fresh start and a better appreciation for what we have. Going to sleep to the sound of gentle rain drops pinging off the metal roof of my van home. Laying there, I think of how crazy this thing called life really is. No one thinks that we might die as we roll up to the start line of a bike race.

I like to think Will was having a spectacular race run. That his mind was full of joy and excitement for being on his bike and racing in the mountains with his friends. To be so lucky to leave this world under such terms. Will was doing what he loved when he died. I hope for something so amazing as that. It doesn’t make the pain stop, or make the tears not fall, but it does make my heart smile.

I have always been proud in how I appreciate life. How I so often will stop to smell the flowers. Or to just look. These events have further reinforced this idea. Life is short and there are no guarantees. That thing you have always wanted to do, but keep putting it off waiting for the right time. Go for it. There is never a better time than now.

Wake up feeling grateful for another day on Earth. Every day is a gift and there is no way of knowing when that gift will end. Hug your family. Hug your friends. Tell them you appreciate your relationship. Laugh. Live with intention. Be grateful for what you have, for what you can do. Continue to learn. Do what you love. Say hello to a stranger, you may just gain a friend.

Losing a friend I never made has made me really appreciate the friends I have made. There will always be events in life that don’t make sense, that hurt like hell. At the end of the day, life is amazing; every last good and bad event or feeling.

I am beyond honored to have captured Will in the midst of doing what made him happy and feel alive. Rest in peace, friend. Ride that endless golden hour singletrack and know you will not be forgotten.

To my friends still on Earth- smile more, the world needs more smiling faces.

Haefeli Honey morning flight

July 2, 2015 Devon Balet

Sometimes life throws a wrench into your plans and you have to sit out on some fun, only to experience something awesome!

I recently got the opportunity to travel to Del Norte, Colorado for a media gathering at the Windsor Hotel. The hotel hosted a select group of journalists and industry professionals to come out for three days of exploring the area, experiencing the town and enjoying beautiful weather in the San Louis Valley.

Earlier in that week I had taken a silly crash on my bike, meaning I wouldn't be able to ride the trails in Del Norte. At first I was super bummed and hesitant to want to go. Then I got word from Kevin with Windsor Hotel that he could line me up on a private plane ride around the valley to scope the terrain and trails from the sky. How could I not go?!

Bright and early on a Tuesday morning I met up with local pilot and honey farmer, Tom Haefeli. Tom took me out to the small local airport where we then loaded into his two person plane. This was going to be awesome!

I must say, the trails and terrain around Del Norte looks amazing! The diversity and extent of what is available is very surprising. For anyone that is looking to ride a new and relatively unknown area in Colorado, I would HIGHLY recommend Del Norte. When you go, stay in the newly restored Windsor Hotel and be sure to have dinner there as well. The food is superb.

A big thank you to the kind folks at Windsor Hotel and to Tom with Haefeli's Honey Farm for the private flight.

Pedaling Nowhere

June 30, 2015 Devon Balet

I was deep inside my own head. Pedaling, head down, dreaming of a cold drink and fatty foods. The day had been a tough one. The time was coming down to the wire for us to arrive to the 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo on time.

Over 350 miles had passed under our tires by that 9th day. As I climbed to the top of another unknown rise on the horizon, the grade picked up and I stood to keep my fully loaded rig rolling forward. As I neared the top I look up to see a women, on a bike, fully loaded just like me. Was I dreaming? Had I finally lost it on that day?

A few pedal strokes more and I could see a second person. In fact, these were real people, on the trail, riding bikes. We hadn't seen a person on our route for days. Aside from the times on a road or resupply we were the only people in the world, as far as we knew.

After my brain cells began to fire properly again I was able to hold a conversation with this co-ed pair. We talked about where we came from, and where we were headed. We spoke about how the current route we were separately riding was a recommendation from the same person.

We said our good byes and continued on. Our route sent us on for two more hours of a hard struggle through a desert paradise. Views forcing me to skid to a stop, only to stop and stare off into the beautiful nature before me.

It wasn't until days later that I realized I had been following Logan on Instagram; PedalingNowhere. Soon Logan was in contact with me asking to be part of a new series he was starting on his website, pedealingnowhere.com. Volume 2 was recently released and it is awesome to see what other bike loving photographers use for their gear.

Be sure to check out Logan's site and follow them on Facebook.

Finding the bright side

June 22, 2015 Devon Balet

"If you ever say 'Why me?' when life is hard, you should be asking the same question when life is going well." -Lovebomb

We all experience hard times. Times in life where things seem too difficult. Times where it seems like life is crashing down on you, or simply that a major or tragic event happens, leaving us asking, "Why me?"

A friend once taught me that if you ask "Why me?" when life serves up a plate of hard luck, you should always be asking the same question when thing are going really well. Why me? But rarely do we do this.

Last week I crashed my mountain bike. Not completely out of the norm, however I have been beyond lucky over the years. With my line of work and fun, I am so lucky to have gone so long without an injury. Why me? But last week that luck ran out.

The morning started long before the sun was up. Good friend and fellow photographer Max Lietner was in town for a quick visit and shoot. For once I would be in front of the camera! After riding sections time and time again for Max, some of which scared the crap out of me, we headed back for town and some coffee.

I was feeling great, having just started a training program to whip me into tip top shape for the Breck Epic. We dipped off of Monument Road onto a bike path, a section I have ridden hundreds of times this year already. Then BAM! I was on the ground, skin ripping off onto pavement, metal sparking. Then, just as quick as I hit the ground, I was on my feet and running.

My arm burned. My hip throbbed. Raw skin was exposed that normally did not see light or feel air. The adrenaline was pumping. I decided the best idea was to get back on the bike and continue to get coffee. The day continued and the pain in my right hand increased. The following day I figured it was a good idea to have it looked at.

Walking into the ER by myself, it seemed surreal. Was I really that hurt? Or did I just take a good spill and a few days is all I needed. After a slue of check ups on blood pressure, heart rate, xrays, financial paperwork and more xrays I got the words I feared most, "You definitely broke the Scaphoid bone in your wrist."

Fuck! This wasn't good. The tears grew and started to fall. Why me? Why now? Why?!?!

I found myself feeling depressed. I would get emotional and sad thinking about what I was now going to miss during the summer ahead. Then, just as quick as I had hit the ground, I changed my attitude.

Even though I now have a cast and won't be able to ride my mountain bike for a while, I was looking for the bright side of things. It can be really hard, especially when it feels like life is taking a crap on your head. After some time alone to reflect I came up with a list of things that were good about what had happened;

I did not sustain a serious or life threatening injury. I didn't have any head injury. My eyes still worked. I could still hold and use a camera. I could still pedal a bike (on smoother surfaces). I still had the use of my legs, my lungs and my brain. Even though I couldn't get on my mountain bike, I wasn't going to let this slow me down.

After sharing the news with my coach we immediately formed a new plan to work around this hurtle. My new goal was to keep the fitness I already had, and continue to increase it any way I could. F U broken bone! A problem is only a problem if you allow it to be that. This was now a challenge.

Not even 48 hours after learning I broke a bone I was on a spin bike, hammering, really hard! I went running, up 2,600 feet in three miles. I was going to do whatever I could do! Some friends asked, "Why would you do that to yourself? Ride a trainer and run?" My only response was, "Why would I do anything else but continue to push and improve myself?"

It still bums me out thinking about the crash and the broken bone, but now I have a much more positive attitude about it. Life present hurtles, those difficult times where we want to just stay in bed and sleep away our troubles. But it is in those times that you truly define yourself. How you deal with those hard times. Well, I'm not about to sit around and wait. I am hungry and I am motivated.

Why am I so lucky to be alive?

Taking a swing at video blogging- Vlog 001

June 11, 2015 Devon Balet

Recently a friend turned me onto a well known YouTube vlogger (video blog) by the name of Casey Neistat and it got me thinking. Why don't I do something similar? Casey is a powerhouse, pumping out a full video every single day. Not really what I am after, more just wanting to add some personal projects to fine tune skills and share with everyone. Here is my first go at it.

The Trans-Sylvania Mountain Bike Epic- Singletrack Summer Camp!

May 20, 2015 Devon Balet

Three years ago, my good friend, adventure and travel buddy Dejay Birtch told me about a stage race outside of State College, PA. Situated in the heart of Seven Mountain Scout Camp. Utilizing the scout camp as the headquarters and launch pad for the week long race, this event has a very unique feel and atmosphere. Over the 7 days you get to know the racers and volunteers as you see them day in and day out, on the trails, in the mess hall, and around the camp.

The slogan for the Trans-Sylvania Epic is "Singletrack Summer Camp" and that is exactly what this event is. Everything about it from the cabins to the cafeteria food (which is amazing by the way!) makes you feel like you are 12 again and at summer camp for a week.

For me, it is a really long and hard week of shooting. Seven days of racing... chase race, shoot, return, download, edit, upload, post, edit, eat, edit, sleep, repeat. Early mornings, long days and late nights. I wouldn't want to be anywhere else! For me this week also marks an annual trip, getting to spend time with friends I see but one week of the year.

This Thursday I'll be flying to Chicago (again!) and then driving from there to State College with my good friend Erik. Last year Erik and I got to really connect during our week at TSE, so I am excited to get to do that again this year! There will be daily updates, images and photos from the event, so keep your eyes open for that!

Bern ads starting to roll out!

May 19, 2015 Devon Balet

Last week traveled to Chicago to shoot for Bern Unlimited, a helmet company based outside of Boston, Mass. Over four days, myself along with a great creative group of models and photographers I was able to come away with a massive collection of great images. Bern is already rolling out ads with images I captured and it is looking great!