On The Merits of Camaraderie.

A (very basic) image I made a few years ago, on ski tour, had me reflecting on the bonds we create while out sharing an adventure.

One of those classic group images: light on difficulty to make, heavy on the memory it preserves and feelings it evokes (taken on one of the highest peaks in our region).

The above image only hit me deep later on.

As in, a few years later.

On both a photographic and philosophical level.

On the surface, technically and photographically, it’s a very simple image to make: balance the camera on something / tripod, set the self timer, line everyone up, click.

But it goes so much deeper than that.

It has profound meaning, actually.

Importance too.

And not only because I finally managed to get our group to stand still long enough for a group pic (the only one of the three day tour, actually).

Then what is it?

I’ll gladly tell you.

What makes this image punch above its (technical and seemingly light) weight is because of the emotion and memory it evokes. I am instantly transported back to those three days of magical ski touring (and struggle) when I look at it.

But the most beautiful thing it reminds me of?

The camaraderie between our group.

That powerful force that binds people together through shared experiences, mutual trust, and a sense of belonging.

Even though we didn't know each other well - or at all - at the start, we were a tightly knit unit by the end of the tour after sharing three days in the high Swiss Alps on ski tour.

And the image up top really embodies that for me.

If we compare that to the image below of the same tour, where one our group leaders was inspecting a potential line choice, it’s just not the same.

One of the Swiss Alpine Club group leaders checking to see if our line choice was good on Day 2 of our tour.

Sure, it’s adventure inspiring, but doesn’t tell or invoke such a nostalgic feeling of camaraderie and newly found friendship.

And at the end of the day those human relationships we cultivate on adventure trips like this - where we share the highs and the lows of physical exertion, amazing views and skiing beautiful lines - are what make them so special.

So yes, in my humble opinion, getting out there and making new friends through adventures (big or small) is one of life’s gifts. Ultimately, it’s a testament to the human need for connection, proving that we thrive most when we stand together.

And, of course, remember to make some images too!

Lower down in the valley, after descending almost 2000m vertical, the snow ends and we have to walk the last kilometers to the village.

That’s it for this week!

Any interesting stories or thoughts to add?

Simply hit reply and let me know / comment below (so we can all benefit).

Have a great week!

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Until next time ✌🏽.

Cornelius

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