
This article “Jimmy Chin Masterclass Review” will provide you with the opportunity to read an in-depth evaluation of Jimmy Chin’s Masterclass, including information on how the lessons are presented, who the course is best suited for, the cost, what I enjoyed about it, etc.
Prior to sleeping, I was about to watch the MasterClass Adventure Photography introduction by Jimmy Chin Teache.
However, I saw that the first movie lasted more than 17 minutes after I hit “Play.” I was too busy to do it. Too worn out As soon as the game began, I found myself captivated and unable to look away. I was unable to look away from her. I couldn’t bear to look away from the computer.
In the meantime, I scribbled notes and planned my own travel photo as I performed with Jimmy Chin in his masterclass. You’ll be sucked in by the captivating music, stunning photography, choreography, and cinematography, as well as the compelling narrative that chronicles the story of Jimmy.
Rather than just a means of capturing photographs, we’re soon to find, according to Jimmy Chin, that photography is a way of life and a tool for discovering the world around us. This Master Class is devoted to Jimmy’s photography world.
We’d love to get a glimpse into how you approach photography’s technical components, ethics, and critical thinking skills through this article on the Review of Jimmy Chin’s Masterclass.
Who Is Jimmy Chin?

Jimmy Chin is an American professional mountain athlete, photographer, film director, and author. As a mountain athlete, Chin has been a professional climber and skier on The North Face Athlete team for over 20 years. So rather than bore you with a detailed account of my life and profession, I’ll just highlight a few noteworthy events:
- For the National Geographic expedition in 2002, Chin accompanied and documented a solo crossing of the Chang Tang Plateau in Tibet. He is one of just two people to have skied down Mount Everest via the South East Ridge Route.
- Outside, National Geographic and Men’s Journal are just a few of the publications that have published Chin’s work.
- In addition, he’s the director of two critically acclaimed films: Free Solo and Meru.
On social media platforms such as Twitter, where he has more than 112 thousand followers, Jimmy Chin also provides some cool and engaging content with his audience.
What Is MasterClass?

MasterClass is an online education platform that allows students to pay to gain access to interviews with well-known people and tutorials taught by those individuals who are considered to be experts in their industries.
In the video lessons, each of the experts addresses the student personally. In addition, the lessons feature activities, workbooks, communities, and interview sessions.
A typical MasterClass will consist of ten to twenty-five video courses, which will add up to a total of two to five hours and may be seen on any device that has a connection to the Internet.
You can also download classes to use when you are not connected to the internet. This feature is especially helpful if you will be traveling without access to WiFi.
You can also access the classes using a specialized app on an Internet-enabled television, which has become possible with the release of the Apple TV 4 and the Google Chromecast.
Course Overview – Jimmy Chin Masterclass Review

The duration of Jimmy Chin’s MasterClass is 4 hours and ten minutes, and it is broken up into a total of 20 video courses.
The course comes with a workbook that is 89 pages long and contains chapter reviews, a glossary, additional reading, and more.
This course is a combination of traditional one-on-one tutoring and “on-location” chapters, in which students observe Chin at work in real-world settings.
To provide you with a clearer picture of the information that will be covered in this MasterClass, I have broken it down into the following chapters:
On Location: Climbing Photoshoot & Portraits and Natural Light
In the first chapter of mov, Chin introduces you to his unique approach to photographing adventure. As he begins his journey, he intends to teach you both technical and practical aspects of photography so that you can begin your own photographic adventure.
He thinks that by drawing on his personal experience photographing and climbing Yosemite, he may help you decide what course to take.
Chin takes you on a climb with his crew and documents the process of trying to get the right image of his subject.
When it comes to photographing the mountains, Chin teaches you the following:
- Make good use of light in order to make your subject stand out.
- Ascertain whether the work is for commercial or editorial purposes
- Draw the viewer’s attention by creating depth of field
- Engage your crew to acquire the greatest possible shots.
- The pros and downsides of using natural light should be considered.
- Play around with the settings on your camera to get the best results.
- Chin takes you step-by-step through the process of telling a story with your photos in two parts. You’ll learn all about Chin’s photographic techniques as he works with climber Conrad Anker.
Overall, these chapters immerse you in Chin’s adventure by allowing you to be a fly-on-the-wall. By the end of the class, you’ll have a better understanding of how to make the most of your shooting sessions by maximizing the use of available light, equipment, and environmental factors.
Capturing Your Passions
Chin invites you to discover your inner motivations in this chapter. Chin discusses the best ways to approach an already-competitive genre by drawing on his own experience as a climber.
You’ll study the following in this lesson:
- influenced by Chin’s photos
- Advice on how to break into the photography industry
- How to discover your own unique creative style
- Tips for locating motivation in the real world
- Some exercises to help you improve your singing voice
- Chin’s views on failure and how to learn from it
- Chin teaches you in a one-on-one setting how to hone your personal aesthetic as a photographer. A lot of it, he argues, is about digging into your own interests to discover an entry point.
However, Chin also devotes a significant amount of time in this session to providing you with specific advice on how to “go out there” and establish high standards for yourself.
He ends the MasterClass with what he considers to be the most significant lesson:
Principles of Narrative: Concept, Research, and Pitch & The Shoot and the Edit
Chin walks you through the steps he takes while editing a piece of writing. His research methods are also laid out so that you may get the most out of your shoot.
Keeping this in mind, here’s what you’ll discover:
- How to overcome challenges when working with clients
- Chin’s step-by-step process for research
- How to confidently pitch your ideas
- What to expect when presenting to a board
- How to convey feelings through images
As a result, you’ll gain a better understanding of the factors that Chin considers most important when working on an editing project. On the basis of examples from his own work and the expectations of a customer like National Geographic, Chin offers advice on how to best present your ideas.
Photo Studies: Shooting at the Top
The most dangerous of Chin’s projects will be examined in this lesson, and you’ll see how he employs innovative problem-solving techniques.
- Overcome the difficulties of shooting whilst moving
- Use the “human element” to give your work context
- Make the most of natural lighting and tools at hand
- Work successfully under pressure and time constraints
In addition, Chin offers some insight into the way he approaches shot composition. In addition, you’ll learn about his collaborative approach and the steps he takes to get creative shots like these.
Technical terms are not always explained in this lesson, which is a drawback. The Workbook is a great resource for this, but if you’re just getting started with photography, you may find it a bit confusing.
As a result, Chin now takes you to:
Commercial Work: Pitching and Working With Clients & Commercial Case Study: Canon Shoot
The differences between commercial and editorial work are a particular focus of Chin’s, particularly when it comes to pitching. Using these key differences, he shows you how to craft your pitch in a way that will resonate with your audience.
Working with clients and submitting ideas to publications are the main topics of this section. This is why Chin teaches you how to pitch for commercial and editorial work in separate sections of the book
In addition to this, you’ll discover:
- Find clients and agencies (or help them find you)
- Establish strong working relationships with your team
- Write and deliver an “RFP”
- Research for your “pitch deck”
- Set yourself up for success
Aware that not every client has experience shooting, Chin shares his strategies for working with clients to achieve the best possible results.
For me, this was an extremely useful lesson on how to approach a client. Commercial and editorial photography is vastly different, but Chin lays out what you need to be prepared for.
This leads us to Chin’s preferred style of photography: street photography.
High-Stakes Photography
High-stakes photography is the most rewarding experience for Chin. However, in your role as an adventure photographer, you must weigh the benefits against the dangers. The logistical aspects of shooting and risk management are covered in detail in this chapter by Chin.
The following are Chin’s thoughts on what he considers to be your most important responsibilities:
- Understanding and assessing your environment
- Managing and minimizing risks on location
- Preparing yourself for expeditions
- Building the necessary skill set to succeed
- Negotiating Plans B and C
When it comes to planning for “pivots,” this chapter is all about preparing you for the unexpected. When things don’t go according to plan, you’ll be able to think outside the box and come up with something for your client to see.
It’s a good mindset for any photographer because things can go wrong at any time. So, as a leader, it’s your responsibility to be decisive and to cut your losses if necessary.
Photo Studies: Creative Partnerships & Building and Leading a Team
Here, Chin focuses on how to get the most out of your team and collaborate with others. Chin teaches you how to best build team relationships by focusing on creating a “shared vision.”
As a result, you’ll learn more about:
- Building trust with your talent
- Working with athletes who have their own goals
- Setting your team up for success
- Hosting pre-production meetings
- Being flexible and decisive
Chin begins by describing his interactions with Conrad Anker and Dean Potter, with whom he has worked. His framework for building strong relationships and dealing with potential problems is even more comprehensive.
A pre-production meeting is next, where you’ll learn how to set your team up for success and how to get the best out of them. The crew decides what they hope to accomplish with this shoot and how they plan to get there while keeping safety as a top priority.
According to Chin, you should already have an idea of the kinds of shots you want to take during this planning stage. In other words, you should be able to foresee what your talent will need in terms of wardrobe.
This leads to:
Photo Studies: Mountain Architecture
Using examples from his own landscape photography, Chin offers advice on how to make the most of a mountainous setting.
Below, you’ll discover:
Using examples from his own landscape photography, Chin offers advice on how to make the most of a mountainous setting.
Below, you’ll discover:
- Chin’s tips for letting moments “reveal themselves.”
- Techniques for prioritizing workload when on a climb
- How the rules of composition apply to mountainscapes
- The relationship between the weather and natural light
This was a particularly subjective lesson for me. Many of Chin’s shooting preferences are merely personal preferences.
The terms used by Chin can be confusing to those who are just starting out in photography. The examples he provides, on the other hand, make up for this.
From here, Chin takes you to:
This was a particularly subjective lesson for me. Many of Chin’s shooting preferences are merely personal preferences.
The terms used by Chin can be confusing to those who are just starting out in photography. The examples he provides, on the other hand, make up for this. From here, Chin takes you to:
Editing
Chin walks you through the steps he takes to edit a piece in this section. He believes that creating a system that can be used over and over again is critical.
As a result, Chin instructs you:
- What makes a good editing process
- His “1-5-star” system
- The 4 key stages of his process
- How to whittle down your photo series
Chin shows you exactly how he selects and enhances images using editing software in real-time, while working with his editor. In fact, seeing Chin’s screen as he and his editor experimented with adjustments to light, exposure, and other variables was an especially memorable experience for me.
If Chin were the only one speaking, I wouldn’t have felt as engaged as I did. I think this lesson does an excellent job of simplifying a complicated process for those who aren’t familiar with editing software.
Post-Processing: Conrad on the Wall & Portrait
When it comes to post-production for commercials, Chin has some great advice. In fact, he walks you through each step of the process and even shows you the difference between the before and after shots.
With this in mind, the following is what this lesson is about:
- The pitfalls of field-shooting and how to overcome them
- When to use broad strokes or specific edits
- How to draw focus to your image
- Chin’s philosophy of “pivoting”
- How to edit portraits and master the “horizon line”
Chin shows you how to achieve a delicate balance between stylization and naturalism, keeping in mind the client’s requirements. In addition, he offers some advice on how to make an image “pop.”
There are a lot of technical terms used in this lesson, so those who aren’t familiar with video editing software may find it confusing.
The only difference is that you can see these edits in real time and compare them to the original. This was a huge help in making sense of the editing process for me.
From here, Chin takes you to:
Gear: Jimmy Chin Camera, Lenses, Power & Storage
Chin shows you how to use his guns. According to him, a change in clothing or equipment can have a dramatic effect on how people perceive you.
This section contains the following information:
- Chin’s go-to cameras and lenses
- The best lenses for different lighting scenarios
- How to pare down options if weight is an issue
- Chin’s recommended lenses for those starting out
When it comes to preparing for an expedition, Chin offers advice on everything from organizing storage to anticipating potential power outages. Ultimately, he advises you to think about the logistics of your trip when deciding what equipment to bring.
Despite the fact that Chin’s advice is geared toward more experienced photographers, I appreciated that she included some tips for those just getting started in the world of adventure photography.
Settings: Modes, ISO, Focus, and Depth of Field
Camera modes and scan levels—and what they can do for your photography—are the focus of Chin’s attention. In addition, he reveals the camera modes he relies on when he has little time to spare.
Here are the topics covered in this lesson:
- What settings to check before a shoot
- Which modes are best for different genres
- Shutter priority vs. aperture priority
- How to “layer” an image
- Chin’s philosophy on what to prioritize
As a result of the workshop, I was able to better prepare for upcoming photo shoots. This video was extremely instructive, even if it is a little difficult to follow without the Workbook.
Once Chin has given you a few options to consider, he shifts his attention to:
Career Advice: Building a Body of Work
You will be given assignments and encouraged to create a portfolio by Chin near the end of the MasterClass. He even goes into detail about some of the difficulties he’s faced along the way and the solutions he came up with.
With this in mind, Chin provides you with a few tidbits:
- How to hone your skills
- The mindset you need to succeed
- What makes a strong portfolio
- How to market yourself
- Creative problem solving
In addition, Chin discusses the challenges of standing out in a crowded market. He gives you some tips on how to make yourself stand out, as well as how to market yourself creatively.
Adventure photographers will benefit most from his advice, but it is still applicable to any photographer hoping to advance their career.
This brings us to the final sections of the MasterClass, which are as follows:
Becoming a Photographer: Jimmy’s Story & Conclusion: Be Present On Your Journey
Chin opens up about his personal journey with photography in his final lessons. In his own words, he got off track after college when he began rock climbing and skiing and working odd jobs to pay for his way of life. This led him to photography and the decision to make a living from his work.
As a result, Chin provides you with the following information:
- His key influences and the advice they gave him
- How to get yourself out there and make connections
- The character attributes you need in this job
- How to keep up your career momentum
Aside from the importance of hard work, Chin advises you to avoid focusing on an end goal. It’s in the midst of the effort that he sees the most rewarding moments.
As a result, Chin encourages you to get out there and discover the world, and to enjoy the journey while doing so.
Jimmy Chin Is A Very Kind Teacher
When it comes to conveying the intangibles of his craft, his style is methodical and engaging.
Another aspect of this MasterClass that appeals to me is the variety in how the lessons are presented.
Suddenly, we are in a square, Jimmy is speaking directly to us (we have the impression that he is sitting in front of us), and then he analyses recordings from his career in the next minute.
My favorite part of each module was Jimmy’s in-depth examination of his own sessions. We see how Jimmy, as a photographer, had to face his instincts and do many things that were out of the ordinary because of the circumstances.
You’ll learn about the logistical challenges you’ll face as well as the strategies that can help you overcome them in this in-depth examination.
You’ll be able to put your creative thinking to the test in a variety of exercises after completing this module. There are a number of interesting exercises here that will challenge you and force you to put your trade to the test.
The master class’s long-term viability is also a major selling point. How long can this course be a part of your life? For those who have an interest in photography as a child and want to do all the drills and transmissions, of course, this is inevitable.
Master classes are great because they are designed to help you as a photographer throughout your career. Even if Jimmy is studying team composition and leadership, he will get good advice and find it fascinating, but it will be true if he so desires. At this point in your professional life.
While you’re still constructing, you can indulge in as many photographic case studies, creative associations, and edits as you’d like.
Your camera gear may not be adequate for climbing a mountain, but there is a wealth of information about mountain architecture at your fingertips when you’re ready. Jimmy Chin Teaches for Adventure Photography is a complex program, and I’m already learning a lot from it.
Plans & Pricing – Jimmy Chin Masterclass Review
At the time of this writing “Jimmy Chin Masterclass Review”, there were three different subscription offers available for MasterClass. The monthly cost of these is:
- Individual (1 user) $15
- Duo (2 users) $20
- Family (6 users) $23
All of these services are billed annually, which may appear to be excessive at first.
However, if you join with friends or family, you can save a lot of money. By enrolling in as many classes as possible, of course.
You’re sure to find something of interest among the platform’s more than 150 courses. Only $12 a course even if you buy a single membership and only take 10% of the courses that you’re interested in.
$180 / 15 courses = $12 per year for an individual membership.
It’s also a lot less expensive if you sign up with friends or family members. Our MasterClass review and cost articles will tell you more.
Considering the fact that these classes are taught by global leaders in their respective fields, the value is unmatched. Online courses taught by people you’ve never heard of — let alone someone of Chin’s caliber — can cost more than $100.
In addition, if you’re not satisfied with your purchase within 30 days, you can get a refund from MasterClass.
MasterClass can also be purchased as a gift.
Editing your portraits and other shots
While filming an on-location video with Conrad, Jimmy shows you how to edit and enhance your photographs.
Jimmy has perfected a methodical approach to editing over the years. In his photography masterclass, he teaches you his 5-star method. However, you’ll need Lightroom to take full advantage of this feature.
I appreciated his attention to detail. As an example, he even went so far as to explain the process he uses to name files.
Jimmy Chin Masterclass Review: Is It Worth It?
The Jimmy Chin MasterClass is well worth the time and money if you know what to expect going in.
There is less emphasis on camera fundamentals in the course aimed at those who already have a background in photography.
I think this MasterClass is an excellent resource for photographers who admire Chin’s work and want to learn a few new tricks and approaches to their own photography.
Of course, you can pick up the fundamentals of using a camera just about anywhere. To learn from Chin himself about the most important aspects of photography, and the mental cues he uses while photographing, this class is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
This MasterClass is worth a look if you enjoyed the course trailer and lesson plan.
You should also take as many classes as possible to get the most out of MasterClass. Choice abounds with over a hundred classes to choose from.
Cooking can be taught by Gordon Ramsay, interior design by Kelly Wearstler, and dog training by Brandon McMillan, to name just a few examples of what you can learn.
MasterClass also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee if your course doesn’t meet your expectations. As a result, you’re less likely to lose money if the class turns out to be a dud.
Thank you for reading this article “Jimmy Chin Masterclass Review.” If you have any concerns, questions, or suggestions regarding this article, please write them in the comment section below. And don’t be hesitant about passing on this piece of knowledge to others.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Jimmy Chin’s MasterClass cost?
For $180 a year ($15 a month), you can get unlimited access to all of the MasterClass. Jimmy Chin’s MasterClass is included, as well as 150+ other courses.
How long is Jimmy Chin’s MasterClass?
For a total of 4 hours and 10 minutes, Jimmy Chin’s MasterClass is comprised of 20 videos.
Can you get Jimmy Chin’s MasterClass for free?
The Jimmy Chin MasterClass is not available for free. You can try it out for free on MasterClass, and if you’re not satisfied with it, you can get a full refund.
Can I get a refund if I don’t like the Jimmy Chin MasterClass?
Definitely, MasterClass has a 30-day money-back guarantee if you buy directly from the company. If you buy from a third-party provider, their return policy may apply.
What are some Jimmy Chin Movies?
1) Known For. The Rescue Producer (2021)
2) Free Solo Producer (2018)
3) Meru Producer (2015)
4) Free Solo 360 Producer (2018)
5) Director. Return to Space (2022)
6) The Rescue (2021)
7) Op-Docs (2018)
8) Free Solo 360 (2018)
What Are Jimmy Chin Equipments?
The high frame rate of the Canon 1Dx makes it an ideal camera for capturing action. The Canon 5D Mark IV is the ideal travel camera because of its compact design.
Jimmy Chin Instagram
Jimmy Chin Instagram handle is @jimmychin