Samuel Saarel

Director of Photography / Camera Operator / Mountain Athlete


Sam Saarel is a commercial and documentary DP, mountaineer, and skier whose work spans from remote alpine environments to large-scale brand productions. Balancing technical precision with creative adaptability, he brings the same focus used on steep ascents and ski descents in distant ranges to every project he undertakes.

His experience ranges from leading self-supported expeditions to directing and shooting campaigns for brands such as The North Face, Arc'teryx, Smartwool, and Sitka. This versatility allows him to move fluidly between commercial, documentary, and expedition contexts - building visual narratives that are both cinematic and grounded in authenticity.

Sam’s approach centers on capturing the truth within motion - whether it’s an athlete navigating complex terrain or a brand seeking to communicate human connection through place and purpose. His work reflects a commitment to process, story, and the environments that shape them.

Climbing /Ski Resume

  • Grand Teton - Exum, OS, Chevy Stettner Col

  • North Six Shooter - Lightining Cracks

  • Volcán Villirica, Chile

  • Volcán Llaima, Chile

  • Volcán Lonquimay, Chile

  • Volcán Orsorno ,Chile

  • Mt. Rainier, WA

  • Mt. Hood, OR

  • Granite Peak, MT

  • Montana Rock and Ice alpine routes

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Filmmaking - Montana State University

  • Trained in ARRI, RED and SONY camera systems

  • Shotover system Technician and Operator Certificate

  • Part107 FAA certificate

  • First Aid and CPR certificate

  • AIARE PRO Level 1 Avalanche Training

  • Versed in climbing techniques involving rock, ice and snow