Outdoor Photography Portfolio | Wildstride Flagstaff

From track to trail, we’ve worked with elite athletes and top-tier performance brands to tell stories in motion. Our clients include industry leaders like Nike, Coros, and Garmin, and our images are built to showcase both strength and story. Whether it’s shooting high-speed action or documenting an athlete's journey, we bring a cinematic approach that matches the energy of every moment. For brands and athletes looking for performance photography in Flagstaff, Wild Stride delivers.

Olympic gold medalist Jakob Ingebrigtsen poses for a portrait in Flagstaff, Arizona, captured by Wildstride’s Josh Thomson for the launch of the COROS PACE 3 Retro Pack. Shot at altitude in the heart of endurance country, the image showcases the Norwegian middle-distance star in a clean, iconic look—perfectly aligning with the performance-meets-style ethos of COROS and Wildstride’s sharp visual storytelling.

Navajo runner Hosava Kretzmann looks up at a towering billboard of himself in New York City’s Times Square during the reveal of a Nike Running campaign. Captured by Wildstride’s Josh Thomson, the moment reflects a powerful intersection of heritage, achievement, and representation on one of the world’s biggest stages.

Flagstaff running photographer Josh Thomson of Wildstride captures HOKA athletes testing the all-new Skyward X on a dirt road in Arizona’s high country. Shot during the official product reveal, the session highlights the performance and innovation behind HOKA’s latest max-cushion, carbon-plated trainer—set against the iconic altitude and terrain of Flagstaff.

HOKA athlete Simon Bedard lets out a roar of adrenaline on the iconic blue track at Northern Arizona University, firing himself up mid-session. The raw emotion and intensity were captured by Flagstaff running photographer Josh Thomson, founder of Wildstride, in a moment that reflects the passion fueling every lap at altitude.

Ironman champion Pedro Gomes of PG Tri Squad rides his time trial bike through the high-altitude roads of Flagstaff, Arizona. Captured by Wildstride’s Josh Thomson, the image showcases the strength and discipline behind elite triathlon training in one of America’s endurance capitals.

Under Armour athlete Jacob Thomson of Dark Sky Distance raises the American flag in celebration after securing 2nd place at the 2024 U.S. Marathon Championships at CIM in Sacramento, California. Captured by Flagstaff-based running photographer Josh Thomson of Wildstride, the moment reflects pride, perseverance, and the peak of American distance running

"Two-time Olympian and 2018 Boston Marathon champion Des Linden checks her watch mid-race during the 2024 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials in Orlando, Florida. A veteran of the sport known for her grit and consistency, Des competes with calm intensity under the Florida heat. Captured by Flagstaff-based running photographer Josh Thomson of Wildstride, the image highlights a defining moment in the long-distance legend’s pursuit of another Olympic team.

"New Balance athlete Julie-Anne Staehli runs through the scenic terrain of Camp Verde, Arizona, with a dramatic mountain backdrop behind her. Captured by Flagstaff-based photographer Josh Thomson of Wildstride, the image was shot for the cover of Canadian Running magazine—highlighting both the athlete’s poise and the striking Southwest landscape.

An Under Armour athlete trains on the track in Sedona, Arizona, as the sun sets over the red rock horizon. This golden-hour session was filmed and photographed by Flagstaff-based running videographer and storyteller Josh Thomson of Wildstride—capturing the contrast between raw effort and stunning Southwest scenery.

"Nike Bowerman Track Club athletes log winter miles on snow-dusted dirt roads in Flagstaff, Arizona, with the San Francisco Peaks rising in the distance. Documented by Wildstride’s Josh Thomson, a Flagstaff-based photographer and videographer specializing in distance running, the scene captures the grit and beauty of high-altitude winter training.

"Trail runners navigate rugged terrain in Washington’s North Cascades National Park, weaving through alpine forest and sweeping mountain views. The moment was captured by Flagstaff-based visual storyteller Josh Thomson of Wildstride, whose work brings the intensity and beauty of endurance sport into sharp focus.

New York City Marathon champion Sharon Lokedi powers through intervals during a track workout in Sedona, Arizona, framed by the region’s iconic red rock cliffs. Captured by Wildstride’s Josh Thomson, a Flagstaff-based running-focused content creator, the session blends world-class effort with the striking beauty of the Southwest.

"Leonard Korir crosses the finish line victorious at the USATF Half Marathon Championships, edging out Futsum Zienasellassie in a thrilling finish at the Road Racing Championships. Captured by Flagstaff-based running photographer and videographer Josh Thomson of Wildstride, the image freezes a defining moment of speed, strategy, and national-level triumph

"Bowerman Track Club’s men’s squad charges across the finish line together at the end of a grueling track workout, embodying precision and unity. Captured by Josh Thomson, a Flagstaff-based videographer and photographer behind Wildstride, the moment reflects the intensity and teamwork that define Nike’s elite training group.

"Under the brutal Florida sun at the 2024 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials, Sara Hall grinds through the heat with sweat pouring—focused, relentless, and unshaken. This moment was captured by Wildstride’s Josh Thomson, a Flagstaff-based photographer known for documenting the raw edge of endurance sport.

Wildstride founder and Flagstaff-based running photographer Josh Thomson documents Olympic distance runner Grant Fisher as he powers through a high-intensity track session in the thin air of Northern Arizona. Known for his precision and poise on the world stage, Fisher—former NCAA champion and 2x U.S. record holder—trains at altitude to sharpen his edge. This behind-the-scenes look captures the grit and grace of elite-level preparation through Josh’s unique storytelling and athletic-focused lens

Wildstride’s Josh Thomson—Flagstaff‑based adventure photographer and videographer—snapped Molly Seidel checking her watch, Olympic rings tattoo in view, while hammering down Lake Mary Road.

Mia Hall cruises along Lake Mary Road during a product shoot for the latest Swiftwick sock release. The early morning light, paired with Flagstaff’s elevation and energy, sets the scene. Shot by Josh Thomson, founder of Wildstride, the moment captures both movement and detail in the heart of endurance country

"After wrapping a hard session, HOKA athletes Nick Hauger, Aliphine Tuliamuk, and Julia Griffey jog a cooldown together under Flagstaff’s open skies. Captured by Josh Thomson of Wildstride, the image reflects the team dynamic and steady rhythm of recovery that follows high-altitude grind.

Keeton Thornsberry of Eastern Kentucky University runs through the crisp winter air of Flagstaff, Arizona, during an altitude training camp. With snow-covered San Francisco Peaks towering in the background, the moment was captured by Wildstride’s Josh Thomson—highlighting the beauty and toughness of winter miles at elevation

The Under Armour Dark Sky Distance team drops elevation from Flagstaff to Camp Verde, Arizona, for a group tempo run in warmer conditions. Captured by Josh Thomson of Wildstride, the session reflects the strategic training decisions and team cohesion that define elite-level preparation in the Southwest.

Olympic champion Jakob Ingebrigtsen hits the track wearing the COROS PACE 3 Retro Pack during a training session. Captured by Flagstaff running photographer Josh Thomson of Wildstride, the image pairs elite performance with the sleek, throwback design of COROS’s latest release.

Keeton Thornsberry of Eastern Kentucky University stretches ahead of the NCAA Regional Championships at Tom Sawyer State Park. Captured by Wildstride’s Josh Thomson, the image reflects the calm focus before the gun goes off—set against the familiar cross-country terrain of Louisville, Kentucky.

"In the pre-dawn stillness, Hosava Kretzmann bows his head in prayer at the start line of the McKirdy Micro Marathon, surrounded by fellow runners. Captured by Flagstaff endurance videographer and photographer Josh Thomson of Wildstride, the image reflects a quiet moment of focus and faith before the pursuit of a breakthrough race.

Nike Bowerman Track Club’s men’s squad sharpens speed with a track session in Camp Verde, Arizona—dropping elevation from Flagstaff for optimal conditions. The workout was documented by Josh Thomson, a Flagstaff-based endurance filmmaker and founder of Wildstride, capturing the precision and focus behind world-class preparation.

"Olympic medalist Molly Seidel wears the COROS PACE 3 Global Edition during a workout along Lake Mary Road in Flagstaff, Arizona. The moment was captured by Josh Thomson, a Flagstaff-based running photographer and founder of Wildstride, known for blending elite performance with storytelling visuals.

Under Armour marathoner Jacob Thomson sits quietly after a brutal workout, sweat still fresh and fatigue written across his face. Captured by Flagstaff-based endurance visualist Josh Thomson of Wildstride, the image reveals the raw, unfiltered side of elite training—the calm after the storm.

"Ironman champion Pedro Gomes grinds uphill on his TT bike through the high-altitude roads of Flagstaff, Arizona. Captured by Josh Thomson, a Flagstaff-based endurance sports photographer and founder of Wildstride, the image showcases the strength and focus required to train at elevation.

Coach Erik Jenkins and distance star Edward Cheserek work side by side during a focused track session, blending experience with elite talent. Captured by Josh Thomson, a Flagstaff-based running photographer and videographer behind Wildstride, the image showcases the synergy and discipline that define world-class training.

Wildstride’s Flagstaff adventure shooter Josh Thomson tracked a runner mid‑stride against a blazing Sedona sunset. Red‑rock silhouettes and desert glow frame the motion.

Flagstaff shooter Josh Thomson—founder of Wildstride—framed a lifter silhouetted in car headlights, barbell pressing skyward. Night air, bright beams, pure grit.

emily sisson cross finish line at usatf half marathon road champs and brerak american record as she breaks the finsin line tape

Snow-covered roads and subzero temps pushed Bowerman Track Club athletes indoors during a winter training block in Flagstaff. Laced up in Nike shoes, they logged miles on treadmills—focused and unfazed. The session was documented by Wildstride, where Flagstaff-based running photographer Josh Thomson captures elite training in every condition

Emily Sisson tears through the tape at the USATF Half Marathon Championships, locking down a fresh American record. Shot for Wildstride by Flagstaff adventure lensman Josh Thomson.

As snow falls over Flagstaff, pro triathlete Matt McElroy rides his time trial bike wearing the new G-SHOCK GBDH2000. Captured by Flagstaff-based running photographer Josh Thomson of Wildstride, the shoot was part of a Men's Journal feature and G-SHOCK collaboration—blending endurance, grit, and gear in rugged winter conditions

"Nike Bowerman women’s team athletes log winter miles on a snow-covered dirt road in Flagstaff, Arizona. Captured by Josh Thomson of Wildstride, the image blends grit, grace, and high-altitude toughness as some of the world’s best distance runners train through the elements.

Jacob Thomson, Nick Hauger, and Matt Baxter cruise down a pine-lined dirt road in Flagstaff, Arizona, during a steady training run. Captured by Wildstride’s Josh Thomson, the image reflects the quiet grit and rhythm of high-mileage days in the altitude-rich forests of Northern Arizon

Ironman champion Pedro Gomes rides in an aggressive TT position, dialed in on his aero bike during a training session. The moment was captured by Wildstride founder Josh Thomson, a Flagstaff-based running and endurance sports photographer and videographer known for documenting elite athletes in their element.

"Pedro Gomes rides in aero position on his TT bike during the Mountain Man Triathlon in Flagstaff, Arizona, carving through the winding roads behind Mormon Lake. Captured by Flagstaff endurance videographer and photographer Josh Thomson of Wildstride, the scene highlights both the intensity of racing and the raw beauty of Northern Arizona’s high country.

"Bowerman Track Club athletes Elise Cranny and Karissa Schweizer push through intervals during a track workout in Phoenix, Arizona, escaping the colder temps of Flagstaff. Captured by Wildstride’s Josh Thomson, a Flagstaff-based performance photographer and videographer, the session showcases the precision and intensity that define Nike’s elite distance squad.

"Hosava Kretzmann stands beneath his own towering Nike Running billboard in the heart of Times Square, grounded and still as traffic and pedestrians rush by. Captured by Wildstride’s Josh Thomson, a Flagstaff-based running-focused filmmaker and photographer, the image captures a powerful contrast—visibility, heritage, and presence amid the chaos of New York City.

Ryan Hall coaches his wife, Sara Hall, through a workout as they both check their pace mid-session—watches in sync, focus unwavering. Captured by Josh Thomson, a Flagstaff-based endurance storyteller and founder of Wildstride, the moment highlights the trust, precision, and partnership that power elite performance.

We specialize in outdoor photography rooted in motion, nature, and authenticity. From high-altitude trails to real moments in real communities, we create visual content that speaks — whether it's for national brands or local businesses. From golden light hitting a product mid-hike or wildlife moving through the forest. Our work with outdoor brands like Canyon Coolers, a Flagstaff favorite, and Naturebacks reflects our deep connection to the landscapes of Northern Arizona and beyond. As Flagstaff-based outdoor photographers, we understand how to blend product, place, and purpose into visuals that resonate.

Josh Thomson, Flagstaff-based adventure photographer and founder of Wildstride, captures a climber reaching for the next handhold on a sandstone face. Pure focus and movement mid-climb.

A hiker sits on a natural rock bridge, watching the sunset light up a mountain skyline. Shot by Wildstride’s Josh Thomson, an outdoor filmmaker and photographer based in Flagstaff, AZ.

Sunset light cuts through pine trees in Flagstaff, Arizona, painting the sky in layers of color. Shot by outdoor filmmaker and photographer Josh Thomson of Wildstride.

A person rests in tall grass, taking in the view of Mount Baker and a nearby lake. Photographed by Josh Thomson, Flagstaff-based adventure photographer and videographer at Wildstride.

Sunset casts golden light on a towering rock wall in Zion National Park, with a winding road leading through the landscape. Photographed by Josh Thomson, outdoor photographer and videographer from Wildstride, based in Flagstaff, AZ.

A buffalo in Yellowstone National Park stares through the lens, caught mid-grazing. Shot by Josh Thomson, a Flagstaff-based photographer and videographer with Wildstride, specializing in wildlife and adventure imagery.

A rock climber dangles from the cliff, gripping the hold with unwavering focus. Documented by Josh Thomson of Wildstride, a Flagstaff-based outdoor photographer and videographer.

A wooden bridge spans the canyon floor in the Grand Canyon, offering a rare vantage point from below. Photographed by Josh Thomson, a Flagstaff-based outdoor photographer and videographer at Wildstride.

A hunter reaches into a Canyon Cooler on a side-by-side for a quick drink. Documented by Josh Thomson, a Flagstaff-based outdoor creative with Wildstride.

A hiker stands at the brink of the Grand Canyon, gazing down at the Colorado River. Caught on camera by Wildstride’s Josh Thomson, a Flagstaff-based outdoor photographer and videographer.

A hiker crosses a reflective pond with the Wind River Range rising in the distance. Documented by Josh Thomson of Wildstride, a Flagstaff-based adventure photographer and videographer.

A lone hiker stands on a rock ledge at the South Rim, taking in the vastness of the Grand Canyon. Captured by adventure photographer and videographer Josh Thomson for Wildstride, based in Flagstaff, AZ.

A lone Chevy truck drives a quiet, open road in the wide landscapes of Wyoming. Captured by Wildstride founder Josh Thomson, an outdoor photographer and filmmaker based in Flagstaff.

A hiker climbs a steep sand dune in Utah, framed by red rock formations and a burst of sun flare. Shot by Wildstride's Josh Thomson, an outdoor filmmaker and photographer rooted in Flagstaff’s adventure scene.

A Canyon Cooler rides along in a kayak on Lake Powell, with vibrant orange rocks reflecting in the water. Shot by Josh Thomson, Flagstaff-based outdoor photographer and videographer with Wildstride.

A girl walks through the narrow passage of Antelope Canyon, Utah, with a Canyon Cooler backpack and cooler in tow. Shot by Josh Thomson, outdoor photographer and videographer behind Wildstride, based in Flagstaff, AZ.

Mid-adventure, someone grabs a soda from a Soft Shell Canyon cooler. Captured by Flagstaff-based outdoor photographer and videographer Josh Thomson, the founder of Wildstride.

Model relaxes in a hammock surrounded by fall aspens for a Nature Backs shoot. Captured by Josh Thomson, an outdoor adventure photographer and videographer based in Flagstaff, AZ.

Josh Thomson of Wildstride, an outdoor photographer and videographer based in Flagstaff, captures a camper mixing drinks using ice from a Canyon Cooler Clean Ice Bag.

Golden aspens in peak bloom stretch overhead in Flagstaff, Arizona, captured from directly below. Photo by Josh Thomson, outdoor adventure creative behind Wildstride.

The Milky Way stretches across the night sky above a glowing orange tent. Captured by Josh Thomson, outdoor photographer and videographer with Wildstride, based in Flagstaff, AZ.

Mount Baker rises, snow-capped and majestic, with a tranquil lake in the foreground. Shot and documented by Josh Thomson of Wildstride, an outdoor photographer and videographer based in Flagstaff, AZ.

A cowboy rides a mule, leading a train of mules out of the Grand Canyon. Shot by Josh Thomson, adventure photographer and videographer with Wildstride, based in Flagstaff, AZ.

the mountain project uses binoculars on a mountain to look for coues deer in mexico

At sunset, a couple sets up camp and cracks open a chilled drink from their Canyon Cooler. The scene was captured by Flagstaff-based photographer and videographer Josh Thomson of Wildstride.

An archer draws a bow, wearing a Canyon Cooler hat, under the pines of Flagstaff, Arizona. Shot by Josh Thomson—an adventure photographer and videographer at Wildstride, rooted in the same mountain town.

Grand Teton peak looms over a rustic cabin in Grand Teton National Park. Documented by Josh Thomson, a Flagstaff-based outdoor photographer and videographer with Wildstride.

A climber rappels, silhouetted against the sky above Sedona’s red rock wilderness. Documented by Josh Thomson of Wildstride, a Flagstaff-based adventure photographer and videographer.

A hiker stands silhouetted against a blazing orange sky atop a rocky outcrop. This fleeting moment was documented by Josh Thomson, a Flagstaff-based adventure photographer and videographer with Wildstride.

A rider takes off on a 4-wheeler, Canyon Cooler strapped to the back and lit by golden hour sun. Captured by Josh Thomson, Flagstaff adventure photographer and founder of Wildstride.

The Grand Teton rises between pine trees above Jenny Lake in Wyoming. Captured by Flagstaff-based outdoor photographer and Wildstride founder Josh Thomson.

A close-up of giraffe fur reveals the intricate pattern of spots and hair standing up along its back. Captured by Josh Thomson, wildlife and adventure photographer based in Flagstaff, AZ.

Bald eagles sit perched on a limb, surveying their surroundings with keen eyes. Photographed by Josh Thomson, an outdoor photographer and videographer with Wildstride, based in Flagstaff, AZ.

A climber rappels down a rock wall amidst the striking red rocks of Sedona, Arizona. Shot by Josh Thomson, Flagstaff-based adventure photographer and videographer at Wildstride.

A long exposure shot lights up a camper sitting outside their tent, reading under the stars. Photographed by a Flagstaff-based outdoor photographer and videographer, Josh Thomson of Wildstride.

A girl strikes a pose within a natural rock formation in Sedona’s signature red terrain. This moment was documented by Flagstaff-based outdoor photographer and videographer Josh Thomson of Wildstride.

An African antelope stands in tall grass while birds perch on its back, a glimpse of wildlife symbiosis. Documented by Josh Thomson—Flagstaff-based adventure photographer and videographer at Wildstride.

A person stands with arms outstretched, silhouetted against the skyline of Arches National Park. Filmed and photographed by Flagstaff-based adventure creative Josh Thomson of Wildstride.

a hunter glasses a mountain range during a pink sunrise sky

A rhino eats grass in a large grass field

a yucca plant thrives on the top of a flat iron in the superstition mountain range

wildstride wildlife photographer captures a macro photo of a rhino's eye

a hunter stands along a ridge outlooking a mountain range on an elk hunt in flagstaff arizona

Wildstride’s Josh Thomson—Flagstaff outdoor photographer and videographer—zooms in on the armored ridges of an alligator’s back. Each raised bump catches the light, revealing the reptile’s rugged texture.

Josh Thomson of Wildstride—a Flagstaff‑based outdoor photographer and videographer—frames a hunter sighting a Coues deer through his rifle scope in Sonora, Mexico. Focus, dust, and desert silence converge in the shot.

A hunter steps out of the trailer, gear in hand, with a Canyon Cooler staged behind him. Captured by Flagstaff adventure shooter Josh Thomson, founder of Wildstride.

A lone giraffe towers over the savanna while Nairobi’s skyline cuts the horizon behind it. Flagstaff adventure lensman Josh Thomson—working under the Wildstride banner—snapped the wild‑meets‑urban contrast.

Four deer fawns wander across a field bathed in golden light. Shot for Wildstride by Flagstaff‑based adventure photographer and videographer Josh Thomson.

A hunter steps out Wildstride lensman Josh Thomson—Flagstaff outdoor photographer and videographer—froze the instant a hippo surged from the water, jaws wide and teeth bared. Pure river power in a single frame.of the trailer, gear in hand, with a Canyon Cooler staged behind him. Captured by Flagstaff adventure shooter Josh Thomson, founder of Wildstride.

A lone buck strolls across an open field, ears pricked to the morning hush. Image made by Wildstride’s Josh Thomson, a Flagstaff‑based outdoor photographer and videographer.

Flagstaff’s Wildstride creator—photographer / videographer Josh Thomson—framed a lone hiker seated in silence before Wyoming’s Wind River Range. Endless granite and alpine skyline stretch beyond his view.

Golden light spills across a Crispi hunting boot mid‑stalk. Wildstride’s Josh Thomson—Flagstaff outdoor photographer and videographer—locked in the shot.

Waist‑deep in a slot canyon, a backpacker pushes on with their pack held overhead. Shot by Josh Thomson, Wildstride’s Flagstaff‑based outdoor photographer and videographer.

Three backpackers hike single‑file through a Utah slot canyon, dwarfed by sheer sandstone walls. Captured for Wildstride by Flagstaff adventure photographer and filmmaker Josh Thomson.

A yellow baboon perches in a lush green canopy, eyes alert to the savanna below. Flagstaff adventure shooter Josh Thomson of Wildstride framed the moment in crisp morning light.

Pink dusk washes over the Colorado River as it carves through the Grand Canyon. Framed by Wildstride’s Josh Thomson, a Flagstaff‑based adventure photographer and videographer.

Josh Thomson—Flagstaff adventure shooter at Wildstride—caught three Arizona bison bunching together and locking eyes with the lens. The trio stands tight on open range, dust rising around their hooves.

Wildstride founder and Flagstaff lensman Josh Thomson filmed a climber rappelling off a red‑rock cliff in Sedona, Arizona. Rope tension, desert air, and sheer sandstone fill the frame.

We also capture the moments that make communities move — from Flagstaff weddings to real estate campaigns and branded local content. Our lens has been behind projects for companies like Block-Lite, Run Flagstaff, and several local realtors and businesses, providing content that’s both creative and grounded in place.Whether you're telling your brand’s story or celebrating something big, we bring the same outdoor-rooted, story-driven energy to every frame.

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Flagstaff Adventure And Sports Photography

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