The Illume Awards 2026 Bike Category has been won by American photographer Lear Miller with his photograph of Hannah Bergemann, captured as part of Chris Benchetler’s Mountains of the Moon project in Pacific City, Oregon, United States. Here is a closer look at the story behind the winning image and the people who helped make it possible.
Shooting Mountains of the Moon in the Rain
Getting the photo was not easy, as Lear explains, “We shot the bike segment of Chris Benchetler’s Mountains of the Moon over four nights, from about 10pm to 4am, in some pretty brutal rain. The riders were riding in the dark while we constantly battled water on the lenses and gear.”
The challenging conditions ultimately became part of the photo, creating a powerful night-time image that captures both the intensity of the riding and the atmosphere of the environment. If you enjoy mountain biking at night, it is a look at how much work goes into riding and filming after dark. For another night-riding favorite, check out Lights Out with Caleb Holonko.
Lear Miller’s Tip for Action Sports Photography
For Lear, the key to capturing strong action sports photography goes beyond technical skill: “My biggest tip is to get involved as a subject in what you’re photographing. Learn the sport, understand the people, and don’t be afraid to miss a few safe shots chasing the one that really matters.”
What the Illume Judges Said About the Winning Photo
The photograph also stood out to The Illume’s Judging Panel, including mountain biking athlete Elias Schwärzler, Pinkbike Editor Brian Park, Katie Lozancich from World Bicycle Relief, athlete Senad Grosic, and photographer Dave Trumpore. Elias Schwärzler describes the photo, “It’s incredibly memorable. The contrast between the dark, natural forest and the vivid, almost electric colors makes the image feel surreal.”
Illume Awards 2026 Bike Category Prize Package and Announcement in Aspen
As the Illume Awards 2026 Bike Category winner, Miller receives a prize package that brings together photography equipment and recognition from The Illume’s partners.
The prize includes a Leica D-Lux 8, a complete Angelbird storage package and a COOPH camera strap. His winning photograph will also be published in The Illume Photobook 2026.
The Bike Category Winner was announced in Aspen, Colorado, United States, at an event hosted by Limelight Hotels. Freeski athlete Hanna Faulhaber hosted the announcement, revealing Lear Miller as the Bike Category Winner. All 20 Bike Category Finalists joined the event live via an online call, connecting them with the announcement in Aspen.
Canyon and World Bicycle Relief Support the Bike Category
The Illume Awards 2026 Bike Category is supported by Canyon and World Bicycle Relief, bringing together two partners with different but equally strong connections to cycling.
Canyon is a global bicycle manufacturer known for its focus on performance, innovation and pushing the boundaries of what is possible on two wheels. Its partnership with The Illume reflects the shared connection between cycling, progression and visual storytelling. For more from a Canyon-backed rider, watch Gabriel Wibmer in Late For School 2.
World Bicycle Relief is a global nonprofit organization that mobilizes people and communities through the power of bicycles. By providing specially designed bicycles and supporting local assembly and distribution networks, the organization helps people access education, healthcare, livelihoods and opportunities in communities around the world.
Together, Canyon and World Bicycle Relief represent two different sides of the bike: from high-performance riding and progression to its power to create access, mobility and opportunity.
Next Up: The Illume Category Winner Announcements
The Category Finalists were revealed earlier this month and can be viewed in The Illume Gallery. Follow @theillumeawards and keep an eye on the-illume.com for the next Category Winner announcement: Snow on October 23.
