Pemberton-based professional photographer Russell Dalby was crowned the 2013 “King of Storms” on Saturday night at the 7th annual Arc'teryx Deep Winter Photo Challenge, presented by Gore-Tex.This was the first time the Ontario native had competed in the competition and he brought with him a fresh perspective.

“I wanted to tell a story and showcase the lifestyle behind skiing and riding everyday on the hill,” said Dalby. “A lot of photographers focus too much on the action and getting the most epic shots possible. I wanted to tell the entire story.”

Dalby’s plan worked. His all black and white slideshow juxtaposed images of a guitar with action ski shots of pro skier, Dan Treadway. His show even included a cameo from The Hairfarmers, a cover band from Pemberton who are a Whistler après scene staple. Dalby’s all-encompassing show resulted in him taking home the first place prize of $5000. The second place prize of $2500 went to two-time competitor and Deep Summer 2012 winner Reuben Krabbe; while the third place prize of $1000 went to Andrew Strain, a last minute addition to the competition after another photographer dropped out.

Photo by Russell Dalby

The rest of the photographer lineup included Chris Christie, Nic Alegre and Mike Helfrich. Helfrich’s perfectly timed black and white photo of a snowboarder gapping the Whistler Creek was named Best in Show by the judges and earned him $500.

For the second year in a row, the judges’ opinions are not the only ones that matter. Anyone can head online to vote on the Arc'teryx Deep Winter Photo Challenge presented by Gore-Tex People’s Choice Award through to February 19. Each photographer has submitted three photographs and the public has the chance to vote for their favorite at the Whistler Blackcomb Facebook Page. Social Media played an ever-growing role in the competition with many of the Deep Winter athletes, photographers and spectators tweeting and sharing photos live throughout the competition. To find unique behind-the-scenes video, photos, and other interesting commentary, search #deepwinter on Twitter or Instagram.

All six of the photographers had three days to shoot in-bounds at Whistler Blackcomb with their athlete teams and the final slideshows were played in front of a sold-out audience of 1,100 spectators and five judges at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler. The judging panel included: Photo Editor at Coast Mountain Culture Magazine, Peter Moynes; veteran photographer and Whistler household name, Eric Berger; freelance photographer for CanWest Global newspaper, Bonny Mackarewicz; former Director of Photography at SKI Magazine, Keri Bascetta; and ski photography legend and original King of Storms, Paul Morrison.

The Arc'teryx Deep Winter Photo Challenge Presented by Gore-Tex has come to end but Whistler Blackcomb hosts a number of events throughout the entire season. For a full listing of Whistler Blackcomb events and competitions visit whistlerblackcomb.com/events. To plan a trip the consistently rated No. 1 Mountain Resort in North America this winter, visit www.whistlerblackcomb.com/deals_packages/index.htm or call 1-888-403-4727.