Who Takes the Shot
a documentary film about a the person behind the lens
A documentary about the effort behind the image.
Who Takes the Shot follows adventure photographer Nils Laengner during the Silk Road Mountain Race in Kyrgyzstan. While the riders chase the finish line, Nils chases the moments that define the race.
The film is an observational documentary about the unseen side of adventure photography. It explores the physical demands, constant decision-making, unpredictable conditions, and relentless pursuit of creating meaningful images in one of the most remote places on Earth.
Rather than telling the story of the race, Who Takes the Shot tells the story of the person responsible for preserving it.
About Nils
Nils Laengner discovered photography at an early age, following in the footsteps of his father. Over the years, he has become one of the most recognized photographers in the world of self-supported bikepacking races, documenting some of the sport's most iconic events.
Known for his relentless determination and instinct for storytelling, Nils is always willing to go the extra mile to capture the defining moment. His unique perspective and commitment to getting the shot have earned him a distinctive reputation within the endurance cycling community.
Silk Road Mountain Race:
The Silk Road Mountain Race is widely regarded as one of the toughest unsupported bikepacking races in the world.
Covering roughly 2,000 kilometers through the remote mountains of Kyrgyzstan, riders face high-altitude passes, unpredictable weather, and days of complete self-reliance.
There are no team cars, no outside support—only the rider, the landscape, and the challenge ahead.
We need support
We are looking for camera, photography, and outdoor brands that believe in authentic storytelling.
We are happy to talk about you Ideas or Questions
The Film will be released here: Youtube, Filmfestivals and offline Events.
Genre: Documentary / Short Feature
Length: 20–40 minutes
Tone: Inspiring, empowering, tense, gritty
Empowerment through authenticity: No Heros.
My latest Film’s
- “Three Peaks and in Between” with 1 Million views on Youtube
- “The Transcontinental Race” for ZDF Sportstudio Mediathek and Hauptprogramm
- Two more releases planed for 2026
CONTACT
Stephan Wieser
stephan@stephanwieser.com
+4915127527929
Thank You
see you on the road/ trails/ river corssings