Kym Illman
Instagram: instagram.com/kymillman
Youtube: youtube.com/@KymIllman
Website: kymillman.com/
Photo Gallery: prostarpics.com/
Tiktok: tiktok.com/@kymillmanf1
Facebook: facebook.com/KymIllmanF1/
Bio:
Kym Illman is a Perth-based photographer and esteemed BlackRapid Ambassador celebrated for his dynamic work in Formula 1 photography. Born in Adelaide, Kym has become one of the most followed F1 photographers on social media, amassing over 900,000 followers across YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. His unique approach focuses on the human side of the sport, providing behind-the-scenes insights and candid moments from every F1 event on the calendar.
Canadian photographers—from Toronto’s bustling sports arenas to Vancouver’s vibrant event landscapes, and Winnipeg’s growing creative community—can draw inspiration from Kym’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. Kym’s work exemplifies the fusion of technical skill and storytelling, offering valuable insights for Canada’s photography community.
Q&A
Hometown: Adelaide, South Australia
Reside in: Perth and Lancelin, Western Australia
What’s your photography genre: Motorsport
Career Highlight #1: when National Geographic Germany bought the rights to my wildlife book “Africa on Safari”
Career Highlight #2: My first F1 race in Melbourne in 2017
Career Highlight #3: Capturing Guanyu Zhou’s crash at the 2022 Silverstone Grand Prix
BlackRapid product of choice: Double Camera Strap
Age you took your first photo and what camera did you use: It would’ve been at the age of 10 using a Canon film camera.
First realization that you wanted to be a professional photographer: Halfway through my first African wildlife safari in the Maasai Mara, Kenya.
Who inspires you: Joe McNally
Camera of choice used to capture most of your work: Canon R3
Dream photo-shoot: A private photo shoot with David Beckham
What do you do when you are not taking photos: Making YouTube videos about Formula 1 and my travels around the world.
Favorite place on earth: Lancelin, Western Australia
One piece of advice for someone at the beginning stages of their photography career: look at what everyone else is doing and do something unique.
How do you “Live the Moment”: At F1 I live through the lens – constantly scanning my surroundings looking for what is happening and where the action is.
