Salomon isn’t just about keeping pace with culture; it’s about shaping what comes next. Rooted in performance and experimentation, the XT-4 has become more than a trail icon; it’s become a cultural marker across fashion, music and street expression.
That same forward energy resonates with mixed media artist and photographer Ramsey Ramone. Known for his raw, instinctive visual language, and as a freelance photographer who’s worked with the likes of Esdee Kid, Ramsey has captured some of the UK’s most influential voices shaping culture today. His creative direction spans texture, movement and emotion, working across stills, trailers and lookbooks. We caught up with Ramsey to talk about his work and the ideas behind this latest Salomon project.
What kick-started your journey as a photographer?
“My fascination with cameras began around the age of 10. My cousin introduced me to my first DSLR when he brought it along on our fishing trips. Watching him shoot and eventually getting the chance to use it myself completely changed things for me. From that moment, I knew I wanted my own camera so I could create and experiment in my own way. I saved every bit of money I could until I finally bought my first camera, a Canon 650D. That was the real starting point.”
How did you settle into such a distinct style?
“I developed my style through years of watching MTV music videos, top of the pops from different decades and a lot of movies. I was drawn to the instruments, styling, lighting, and camera work, each era had its own visual identity. Seeing how those elements evolved over time showed me how music and visuals constantly reinvent themselves yet they often come full circle.”
Salomon talks about ‘shaping new futures’. What does that mean to you as a photographer and mixed media artist?
“To me shaping new futures is about being curious, pushing my creativity, and letting my work evolve as I explore new ideas and perspectives. Taking risks in projects rather than trying to play the safe options.”
The XT-4 has become a cultural staple. What do you like about the shoe, and how did you approach translating that crossover through your lens?
“The XT-4 to me screams aggression and agility. I really wanted to capture that in the images and tried to utilise movement of the human body in urban environments for that.”
Your work often feels instinctive and textured. How did that visual language influence the way you shot this campaign?
“For this campaign, I wanted to experiment a lot in post. Printing, scanning, re-scanning and utilising everyday items to show the XT-4 in a new light.”
Over 5 years in, have you ever found a need to change direction or course correct?
“I have I think it’s natural for creatives or anyone in fact to question yourself at times. I find it can be challenging trying to balance what the viewer/audience would like with what I personally would like. Ultimately I think if you create something that you genuinely like, that’s all that matters, as that will show through the work regardless. The right people will catch on.”
You’ve worked closely with artists like Central Cee, Nemzzz and EsDee Kid. What did you bring from those collaborations into this project?
“Working with artists like Central Cee, Nemzzz and EsDee Kid taught me to trust my instinct and taste. Those environments are often fast and unfiltered, so you learn to react to the moment on the fly rather than trying to control everything. I brought that same energy into this project.”
The UK plays a big role in your identity. Did London’s energy feed into how you envisioned this shoot?
“London has a darker gritty energy that I’m really drawn to and that naturally finds its way into my work. For the shoot I wanted the images to carry a bit of that feeling. Something raw and rough around the edges.”
How important is it to you to be part of projects that actively create opportunities for emerging creatives?
“Very important as it opens doors that aren’t always easy to find. It’s allowed me to bring my ideas to life and show them to the world.”
Looking ahead, what does ‘shaping a new future’ look like for you personally and creatively?
“For me it means continuing to evolve and not getting too comfortable. I want to keep experimenting and pushing my style through photography and all other mediums.”
Explore the Salomon XT-4 collection at size? now.