For approximately 95% of Canada’s population a sunny day means a good day.  However, for the population of the Sea-To-Sky corridor, it means another day without our precious powder.  For the second straight year, Whistler Blackcomb is off to a slow start, receiving just 348cm of cumulative snow so far.  The issue seems to be stemming from global warming, as we are still receiving large amounts of precipitation, though the spike in temperature gives us rain instead of snow.

Historically, the resort receives an average of 1,175cm of snow per year, meaning there is a lot for Mother Nature to do should we wish to hit the average.  Fortunately, for the skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, February and March were the months that received the most snowfall in 2014. Please see the chart below.

 As a photographer, this makes it more challenging to go out and get those epic powder shots.  Creativity and the use of light/shadow are essential to making interesting pictures.  Thankfully, Whistler Blackcomb offer some of the best terrain parks in North America and some very talented athletes who are always willing to strut their stuff!

While sun is good, powder is better, though a sunny powder day can’t be beat.  Until then, I guess we’ll just have to work with what we’ve got.