Rangefinder defines an icon as someone who is creative, has extraordinary talent, is a problem-solver, an educator, an influencer, a role model, and someone evolves without losing their core. This year, that’s Lindsay Adler.

Talking with Rangefinder after the awards, Adler spent time talking about how much sharing her knowledge with other photographers means to her. 

Others have encouraged me, educated me, inspired me, and supported my success; now I aim to do the same for others! I hope that in any small way, the education and inspiration I share helps another photographer to conquer their fears, become a master of their craft, or simply to find more joy — all of these things would thrill me. 

In a time when a lot of photographers guard their secrets, Adler seems willing to open up. She just published a tutorial on using gels, as well as a posing guide, and is about to publish on both color grading and fine-art nude photography.

When I saw Adler speak last year, she talked a lot about finding your own voice by building on the giants that have come before you. For someone who helps to drive the industry, she refreshingly understood the importance of community. Adler touched on this again, focusing on the collaborative aspect of making great images:

I take my job to educate and inspire very seriously. I love shows like WPPI, where we all come together to learn, energize, and exchange ideas. 

Rangefinder’s awards at WPPI are prestigious, and Icon of the Year is the pinnacle of its awards. Congratulations, Lindsay.

Event image supplied by PWP Studio. Adler’s phots provided by Lindsay Adler.