Photographer Kyle Quin Schrock smiles, stands on rocky Madeira landscape, showcasing photographer fall madeira resilience.

California Photographer Survives 200-Foot Fall in Portugal Thanks to a Tiny Bush

User avatar placeholder
Written by Flynn Matthews

2026-10-27

A Life-Changing Accident for Photographer on the Cliffs

Adventure photographer Kyle Quin Schrock, renowned for his breathtaking visuals on Instagram as @everchanginghorizon, encountered a life-changing accident while hiking in Madeira, Portugal. The incident is now known as the “photographer fall Madeira.” The 36-year-old San Diego native revealed that he fell about 60 meters from a cliff, an incident he recounted from his hospital bed.

Schrock, speaking from his hospital bed in Madeira, explained, “I fell about 60 meters and thought it was my death but miraculously got caught on a small bush.” His survival was nothing short of miraculous, with what should have been a fatal fall halted by an unexpected lifeline. This dramatic event will certainly remain a significant moment in his life.

A Race Against Time for the Madeira Rescue

The situation turned dire as the ground beneath him gave way, initiating his fall. According to a GoFundMe established to support his recovery, the fall left Schrock clinging precariously to life. He vividly described the relief upon hearing his friends’ voices assuring him that helicopter help was imminent. “That news was the best I could ever get,” he shared. The photography accident remains a poignant reminder of the risks adventurers like Schrock face.

For those interested in extreme and daring photography, Mathieu Forget’s gravity-defying scenes inspire with their unique blend of art and adventure.

Patient in hospital bed, connected to ventilator and monitors, wearing leg compression devices.
A patient lies in a hospital bed connected to a ventilator and multiple monitors, wearing sequential compression devices on their legs.

His rescue was a race against time, yet Schrock managed to hold on until the helicopter airlifted him to medical safety. The accident left him with severe injuries, including a broken back, ribs, and sternum, placing him in tremendous pain and requiring ‘crazy meds’. The unfortunate accident, however, has not deterred his spirit.

Rebuilding Life and Pursuing Passion

Schrock’s recovery journey promises to be long and demanding. His GoFundMe page highlights the extent of his future needs, focusing on travel, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care in the U.S. Despite the daunting path ahead, Schrock remains optimistic about returning to the life he loves, undeterred by the photographer incident in Madeira.

“I’m alive; I’m grateful to be alive,” he expressed, emphasizing the invaluable role his friends played in securing his rescue. He plans to recover fully and restart his adventures, unwilling to let this setback deter his passion for exploration.

Surviving such a fall is a testament to the unpredictability of nature, much like stunning marine photographs that capture the majesty and peril of the oceans.

Kyle Quin Schrock smiling, surrounded by lush greenery, camera in hand, documenting travels.
Schrock regularly shares his adventures from around the world.

Transitioning from an accountant to a globe-trotting photographer, Schrock told the Daily Mail that he initially embarked on a six-month road trip, only to find an unquenchable love for travel. Through his photography and online presence, he has successfully attracted a supportive following, transforming his passion into a thriving career. His story of the fall in Madeira has captivated many and serves as an inspiring reminder of resilience.

This unforgettable episode is not just a chapter in his life but a testament to the hazards that even a California photographer might encounter when chasing the perfect shot.

Photographer Kyle Quin Schrock smiles, stands on rocky Madeira landscape, showcasing photographer fall madeira resilience.
Kyle Quin Schrock

Sources & Links

Source: petapixel.com

Frequently asked questions

How did Kyle Quin Schrock survive his fall?

Kyle Quin Schrock survived his fall because he was miraculously caught on a small bush after falling about 60 meters from a cliff in Madeira, Portugal.

What injuries did Schrock sustain from the fall?

Schrock sustained severe injuries, including a broken back, ribs, and sternum, which placed him in tremendous pain and required medication.

What are Schrock’s future plans after recovery?

Schrock plans to recover fully and restart his adventures, intending to return to the life he loves and continue his passion for exploration.

Menu