Professional BMX rider and #JOBYAmbassadors Rob Darden gives us a tour around his BMX life, how he sets up for a bike shoot, and how he uses his JOBY gear. Hop on and enjoy the ride!
Can you give us a quick bio of yourself?
My name is Rob Darden. I am 35 years old, originally from Concord, CA now residing in Greenville, NC. I am a professional BMX rider, husband, and father of two. I have been riding BMX Freestyle since 1992 and have a long competition history in BMX Park and Dirt I have ridden at major events such as X Games, Dew Tour and Fise. Throughout my professional career, I have participated in numerous tours and produced many video segments and continue to do so.
What’s your greatest achievement?
X Games Bronze Medal, Year End Park CFB Jacket, Nominated for Rider Of The Year.
What’s your go-to JOBY gear and why?
GorillaPod Hybrid. It’s not too big and supports all of my gear great. The GorillaPod Magnetic is the other tripod that is a must have for me. I always find myself in weird situations filming BMX. With the Magnetic feet, I can pretty much set my camera up at any spot. The Magnetic feet are also a nice security feature if it’s a windy day.
What camera gear do you use?
Sony A7ii, GoPro Hero 5, iPhone 6s
What’s your favorite image you’ve posted and why?
I don’t have a favorite photo of mine. I shoot so many different things it’s hard to narrow one down. Long exposure photos are always fun and interesting to me because you don’t know what you’re going to get until the camera is done processing the photo. I love the anticipation! Also going out at night and working in the dark is always an adventure.
What’s the next piece of gear on your wish list and why must you have it?
I want to add the DJI Mavic Pro to my gear.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to an up and comer?
Just get out and shoot as much as possible. It doesn’t matter what it is, just learn your camera, and it’s settings. Remember the best camera is the one that is with you. Have fun out there.