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Capturing the Perfect Wave: A Beginner's Guide to Surf Photography

September 25th, 2024


Surf photography is a thrilling blend of sport and artistry. Capturing surfers in motion, with the backdrop of crashing waves and dramatic skies, can produce some of the most visually stunning and dynamic images. If you're drawn to these sick moments, this guide will walk you through the essentials of surf photography. Whether you’re shooting from the shore or braving the waves with your camera in hand, here’s how to get started and what gear you’ll need.



Female surfer, Vivian, cruising along the lower jetties in Newport Beach, California
Female surfer, Vivian, cruising along the lower jetties in Newport Beach, California

Understanding Surf Photography

Surf photography requires a unique set of skills compared to traditional photography. You are constantly moving, and so is your subject. It involves not only having a sharp eye for composition and timing but also an understanding of the ocean’s behavior. The ability to predict when and where a wave will break and how the surfer will ride out the wave, allows you to be in the right place at the right time.


Shore v.s. In-Water Surf Photography

  • Shore Photography: For those starting out, shooting from the beach is a great way to practice. I first started out watching the sunset at the upper jetties in Newport Beach since this break is super close to shore. I was using my EF 70-250mm f4.5 lens on an old Canon Rebel T3i and was still able to capture beautiful images (see below). Positioning yourself on a pier, jetty, or higher vantage points will give you better angles! Try heading out to Huntington or Manhattan Beach Pier to start.


  • In-Water Photography: For the more adventurous and serious surf photographers, shooting from the water can deliver incredibly immersive action shots. However, it requires stronger swimming skills, familiarity with the ocean’s currents, and the right protective gear for your camera which can be pretty expensive but worth it. You’ll also need to keep yourself safe while maneuvering among the waves and surfers. So, let's get into the gear!


Essential Surf Photography Gear

1. CAMERA

While it's tempting to jump straight to expensive equipment, you don’t need a top-of-the-line camera to get started from the shore. Many surf photographers use full-frame DSLR or mirrorless cameras for their versatility and ability to handle fast-paced action. I'm using an R7 because of its fast-frame capture at 120 fps.

  • Entry-level recommendation: Canon EOS Rebel T8i or Nikon D5600.

  • For more advanced users: Canon R7 or Sony Alpha a7 IV for its fast autofocus and high-quality image resolution.


2. LENSES

The type of lens you use will depend on where you are shooting from.

  • Telephoto Lens: If you’re shooting from the shore, a lens with a focal length of 200mm-400mm will let you zoom in on distant surfers without compromising image quality.

  • Recommended: Canon RF 100-300mm f/4-5.6 (although my goal is to save for the 200-400mm f/2.8 but she ain't cheap 😍) or Sony FE 200-600mm.

  • Wide-Angle Lens: For in-water shots, a wide-angle lens (16mm to 35mm) works best. It captures the vastness of the wave and the surfer’s motion while keeping you close to the action.

  • Recommended: Canon RF 16-35mm f/4 or Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4.

  • With zoom gears: Canon RF

3. WATER HOUSING

If you plan on getting in the water, a sturdy water housing for your camera is essential. This will protect your gear from water, sand, and salt damage, allowing you to shoot without worrying about exposure to the elements. Look for housing that matches your camera model and is rated for the depth and conditions in which you'll be shooting. I'm using Aquatech's Edge PRO Water Housing for the Canon R7 because of its reliability, top-grade quality, and proximity (made in Orange County).

  • Recommended: AquaTech or SeaFrogs with a flat port to remove water droplets quickly and for clean-water lines versus an "above/below" water effect with a dome port (better for diving).

  • Pro tip: DO NOT buy anything "universal" - you want something that will be custom fitting to your specific model so your camera doesn't slide around or have any potential to let water in. Additionally, you want to be able to adjust your settings in-water.

4. OTHER ESSENTIALS

  • Memory Cards: Use high-capacity memory cards with fast read/write speeds to handle rapid bursts of photos. Make sure to always always always

  • Polarizing Filter: Reduces glare and enhances colors in bright sunlight, especially when shooting on water.

  • Short Fins: If you’re in the water, these are a MUST to help you swim faster and more efficiently.

  • Wetsuit: Keeps you warm and comfortable when shooting in colder water or during long sessions. I use my 3/2mm through summer.

  • Towel and Dry Bag: Keep your gear dry when transitioning from the water to the shore, and make sure to dry off before handling equipment to avoid water damage. I love Meraki's cute dry bag prints for the girlies, and I always carry extra microfiber cloths and a jug of fresh water to clean off my housing before taking my cameras out.

  • Pro tip: tape silica gel packets inside your housing to prevent fogging & carry some anti-fog gel for the surface of your port to prevent water droplets and fog on the outside of your lens port.


Tips for Shooting in the Water

Shooting in the water can be tricky, but it’s where some of the most iconic surf photos are taken. Here are a few tips to help you capture incredible shots.


1. SCOUT THE BREAK

Before jumping in, study the break. Watch how the waves form, where they peak, and how surfers navigate them. This will help you anticipate the best positions for capturing both the wave and the surfer in action. Obviously, surfing yourself helps a TON.

2. POSITION YOURSELF CORRECTLY

Place yourself inside the wave's breaking point to capture the surfer riding down its face. Stay low in the water, keeping an eye on both the wave and the surfer to time your shots. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid getting too close to surfers to prevent accidents. I recommend using a surf helmet to protect your noggin - check out Surf Skull for the sickest bucket hat helmets.

Pro tip: ALWAYS switch your viewfinder mode to LCD screen ONLY - that way, you always see what you are shooting from the screen. You will not be able to use your viewfinder even if you wanted to, and it is much safer to be more in the moment anyways.

3. USE BURST MODE

Surfing is fast-paced, so switch your camera to burst mode. This setting allows you to take multiple shots in quick succession, ensuring you capture the perfect moment — whether it’s a mid-air trick, a barrel shot, or a dramatic wipeout. I recommend getting the trigger grip for the Aquatech Edge PRO housing because it is so much easier and more natural to navigate to quickly.

4. FOCUS ON COMPOSITION

Composition is crucial in surf photography. Capture the surfer within the context of the ocean and the wave. Leave enough space around them to emphasize the size of the wave and the power of the ocean. If possible, include elements like the shoreline, sky, or horizon to add depth to your shots.

5. MASTER LIGHTING

Shooting during mid-late morning will give you the best light and waves. Early morning (at least in SoCal unfortunately) is quite foggy. Don’t shy away from cloudy days either; overcast conditions can provide soft, even lighting - make sure to adjust your shutter speed to NO less than 1/250. About 1/100-1/250 will give you some beautiful motion blur, though, which can be a really cool stylistic choice that I love to add in bright lighting. I personally love shooting late morning-mid-day or in the afternoon when it's super bright and warmer out. But, we are surf photographers so can't escape dawn patrol.


Post-Processing Tips

Post-production can elevate your surf photos from good to great. Use editing software like Adobe Lightroom or Capture One to fine-tune your images. Some key adjustments to consider include:

  • Cropping: Tighten up your framing if needed, but maintain enough space around the surfer to include the waves.

  • Exposure: Adjust shadows and highlights to bring out details in both the surfer and the wave.

  • Saturation & Contrast: Enhance the colors of the ocean and sky to make the image pop, but avoid over-editing to maintain a natural look.

  • Color Grading: I love to adjust teals and oranges for a warmer effect.

  • Motion blur: You can always add motion blur in Photoshop!

  • Grain: I love a lil grainy moment.


Final Thoughts

Surf photography is as much about patience as it is about skill. Start with the basics, and don’t be afraid to get creative with your shots. Whether you’re shooting from the safety of the shore or braving the ocean waves, capturing the essence of surfing will not only sharpen your photography skills but deepen your connection to the sea. Grab your camera, hit the beach, and dive into surf photography - you won't regret it.



New blogs every Wednesday! Coming soon... How to Set Up / Use Your AquaTech Camera Housing Safely & Why I Trust it with my Life

 
 
 

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