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    • STORIES AND INSPIRATION FROM Our AMBASSADORS

    BlackRapid Ambassadors

    From world travelers to studio pros, BLACKRAPID ambassadors are photographers and storytellers who rely on our straps in real-world conditions. Get to know the creatives behind the lens and see why they trust BLACKRAPID to keep their gear secure and accessible.

    Julien Heon

    A man seated in a helicopter cockpit, focused on the controls and instruments in front of him.

    Julien Héon is a Montreal-based photographer and esteemed BlackRapid Ambassador celebrated for his dynamic sports, lifestyle, and action photography.

    With over a decade of experience capturing moments from Long Beach, New York to Waimea Bay, Hawaii, and the eastern coasts of Europe, Julien has developed a unique expertise in action sports photography. He has worked with top professional and Olympic athletes, offering services that include commercial and live-feed content creation during world-class sports events.

    Canadian photographers, from Toronto’s bustling sports arenas to Vancouver’s vibrant outdoor scenes, can draw inspiration from Julien’s energetic approach to photography. His use of BlackRapid’s Double camera strap enhances his mobility and comfort during extensive shoots, reflecting his commitment to quality gear. Julien’s work exemplifies the fusion of technical skill and storytelling, offering valuable insights for Canada’s photography community.

    BlackRapid product of choice:

    The Double – Its awesome to carry to pro DSLR with large lenses without the hassle of the weight, and it can be turned into a single!

    Hometown:

    Mont-Tremblant, Quebec

    Resides:

    Montreal, Quebec

    Career Highlight #1:

    My first print published full page photo – it was in 2006 in Skier Magazine.

    Career Highlight #2:

    Shooting with surf professionals such as Kelly Slater, John John Florence and Mick Fanning.

    Career Highlight #3:

    Being accomplished personally as well as professionally, collaborating with amazing brands such as BlackRapid and having an influence in the industry as well as being respected by fellow professional photographers and amateurs.

    Favorite place on earth?

    North Shore Oahu, Hawaii

    What was your first camera and your current camera?

    My first pro camera was a Nikon D70s, currently shooting with the D4s.

    Who is your photography idol/hero/inspiration?

    I highly admire Bernard Brault, he is a news photographer from Montreal specializing in sports. He has covered countless Olympic Games.

    What do you do when you’re not snapping pics?

    I like to travel and stay active.

    What is your dream photoshoot?

    Anytime I am shooting something unique, and am alone shooting in it (read: not in a crowd of photographers). So whether it would be shooting surf alone on a secret beach, or in Island shooting the unique landscape over there. Maybe a future “fun trip” in great company.

    How do you “Live The Moment”?

    I have only been “living in the moment” for a short while. I used to let myself get overwhelmed with the rapidity of our fast-paced society, until I started shooting surf for long periods of times and lived for several months in Hawaii, I learned to appreciate the small things and truly enjoyed being a photographer at that point.

    Where is the photography industry headed?

    Great question. With awesome gear making good photos highly accessible to many, the industry certainly has opportunities for growth. While some see smartphones as a threat, ( I love shooting with my iPhone), I think it makes photography more accessible and will make people turn into more serious photography and should represent a tremendous growth opportunity for the industry as a whole. As far as professional photographers, diversity and business mindset will be the key to success.