Aaron Sami

February in Chamonix

Aaron Sami
February in Chamonix

The previous five seasons in Chamonix had been some of the worst in recent times. Even the previous season when Monita and I visited over Christmas, there had been a serious lack of snow. But this season, the snow had sometimes, literally dumped. There was no complaining from me.

The second and third week of the month we spent in the Southern Hemisphere between Sydney and Christchuch while I photographed a couple weddings. 

Between the days of fresh snow, we managed to get some clear days, even some bluebird with fresh pow. Living so close to the gondola meant plenty of fresh tracks and so much stoke. Near the end of the month came the beast from the east and the temps dropped heavily to -20 overnight for almost a week. While London and Paris was getting snow, our snow slowly started disappearing and we were riding on the remaining ice. 

But still the valley looked beautiful. Oh, and we were welcomed into a group of Kiwis and Aussies that quickly became our Cham Fam. The best crew. 

I love creating images that speak to me.

I grew up in a small town that nobody really knows about, Levin. Spent a good ten years in Hamilton making some of the best friends anyone could have. And now I’m living, working and playing in the city of Auckland, New Zealand. Also a small country that people have trouble locating – I’m looking at you America!

Life is about stories, and that’s what I love to capture and document. My shooting style is unobtrusive. You may be a natural in front of the camera, or have no idea what to do but before we even start I’ll make sure you’re comfortable and relaxed.

Things I love: Travelling to wherever I can, my partner Monita, homemade burgers, wood fired pizzas, the smell of rain on a hot summers day, mountains, the snow, sunsets and sunrises, star gazing, natural light, the aesthetic of wood, crashing waves and day dreaming.