Spotlight: 5 Questions With Photographer Amanda Bolin

Her Claim to Fame:

Amanda Bolin’s journey into the world of off-road photography began with a childhood fascination for cameras. Growing up in Chicago, she honed her skills in a portrait studio for four years, eventually becoming the lead studio photographer and equipment manager. Her passion for capturing moments led her to pursue a BA in photography from The Art Institute, setting the stage for her current career as a freelance photographer based in Los Angeles. Transitioning from the controlled studio to the rugged world of off-road racing, Amanda discovered the perfect blend of art and adrenaline in the untamed beauty of motorsports.
 
Equipped with a strong foundation in traditional photography, Amanda excelled in the adrenaline-fueled world of off-road motorsports. Her breakthrough came through her work with legendary female off-road racer Shelby Hall, which opened doors to exciting opportunities. Collaborations with industry giants like Theresa Contreras of Baja Forged, Loren Healy and Vaughn Gittin Jr. of RTR/FunHaver, and The Stroppe Collection of Wayne Schmeeckle followed. Amanda’s unique perspective often comes from unconventional vantage points—whether she’s standing on the roof of her Bronco while her boyfriend or a friend drives, or braving waves of dust for the perfect fly-by shot.
 
For Amanda, off-road photography is not just about capturing images; it’s about redefining the intersection of motorsports, off-roading, and artistic expression. The blend of chaos and grace brings together a diverse community of enthusiasts, athletes, and innovators. Her high-quality pieces resonate with both men and women, inspiring a new generation of adventurers and creators. Visit www.DichotomyStudio.com to explore Amanda Bolin’s photography and jewelry, where she embodies the spirit of Creative Chaos.

5 Questions We Asked and She Answered:

1. How did you develop a passion for cars and/or motorsports?
As a child, my father ran some off-road clubs, first “Highriders” then “Lock ‘Em In,” that was predominantly Ford Broncos. The club worked many motorsport events like local off-road rallies, truck pulls and Monster Jam events. In high school, I was the only female in our three-year automotive program and often helped work Monster Jam events with the club. Currently, I work with the legendary female off-road racer Shelby Hall.

2. What advice do you have for people who want to break into the motorsports and auto industry?
Consistency is key. Keep doing what you love, even when no one is watching. You can’t go from learning to walk to Olympic runner in a day. You have to be tested everyday to prove not only to others but to yourself that this is your passion.

3. If you could drive any car, what would it be and why?
78/79 black and red Ford Bronco Freewheeling edition. While my dad drove his primer grey bullnose the longest, permanently primer grey after my mom rolled it, he did have a blue, lifted dentside with the visor and everything. I always felt it looked so rad.

4. If you could attend any car/motorsports event in the world, which would you choose? Why?
I love King of the Hammers and those unlimited ultra4 broncos, and I am looking forward to going to the Norra for the first time this year in Mexico. As for an event I’ve never been to, Dakar looks like it would be a beautiful place to take photos!

5. What’s the most exciting car event/race you’ve ever attended?
King of the Hammers is hard to beat! The toughest one-day off-road event on earth, it’s basically an 8-hour car crash in the desert. These racers give it everything and it’s a wild time getting up close and personal when you chase the race and photograph it.


A Glance at Her Work:

A Glance at Her in Action: