The Empire Photographer Series is an opportunity for promising photographers to get their work printed  on skateboard decks, but above all, it's an opportunity for us to produce some of the sickest shop boards in the biz year after year. With an obvious passion for skating and photography, a sharp eye and a"down for whatever" attitude, Ryan Lebel was the perfect fit for this year's collection. Ladies and Gentlemen, The Empire Photographer Series, by Ryan Lebel.  

To discover what's behind the photos on our new Empire boards, read on!

Board sizes on pictures go from the smallest to the biggest, from left to right. 8.0 - 8.125 - 8.25 and 8.5.

8.0 - New York Atmosphere - A classic New York City street corner in the fall. This day was cold and windy, and I was on a solo mission shooting street photos in Manhattan. I had a goal of shooting some rolls of film with a vintage camera.

8.125 - 120 Film - Street photos from various locations including Montreal and Albany, NY. I became obsessed with square format, black and white film, and developing at home.

8.25 - Perspectives - I always have an eye out looking for my next shot, the best moments are unplanned. This is a collection of some of my favourites, taken in different cities, different times of day, different cameras, but the same eye.

8.5 - Sun Life - Downtown Montreal has some great light, and this spot is one of my favourites. In the evenings, the old Sun Life building gets some reflected light from the newer glass structures across the street, illuminating those who pass by.

SKATE SEASON IS ON FOR REAL NOW! MIGHT AS WELL START IT THE RIGHT WAY WITH A BRAND NEW EMPIRE BOARD!