February 2, 2023
I challenged myself to solely bring my Fuji x100v to Hawaii. Not having a telephoto was painfully pleasant as I had to sit and watch some of the best waves to hit the north shore in years. I learned a lot from studying the different waves, approaches from surfers making it out, and the quick rise and fall from swell to swell over the course of 3 weeks being there. I felt a weight off my shoulders (literally) having my fixed 23mm but creatively limited to what I knew I was capable of shooting.
A 40 minute walk left me feeling more fulfilled with a collection of ordinarily beautiful moments than I do from shooting in the water. The ocean is dynamic and beautiful, but there’s something about watching the constant flow of people from every walk of life and corner of this earth that interest me the most. Beach street is a practice that allows me to express my true eye and document the world how I choose to see it. With this practice, I hope to carefully collect my favorite moments and memories to show myself and others, how my eye will develop and change over time; the same way people, places, and natural life evolve during their course.
The same fear of swimming out on a big day translates similarly when I do these walks. The strength it takes to step out of my comfort zone, and approach people with a camera instills fear of being judged, rejected, or confronted. Strangers are as unpredictable as the sea, but as I spend more time in the field, they become easier to read. Like waves. A large set on the horizon draws a parallel close to that of approaching someone for the perfect shot. As one who fears confrontation, approaching strangers can feel unsettling. Eye contact is the golden ticket for a great street shot. Facing the eyes of strangers inflicts that leap of faith, the same way a closeout set breaks on my head. I know I’ll make it out alive, why not risk it for the shot.
After a decade of improving and developing my portfolio in the water, I have trust in the process of shooting street that my work will take on a similar evolution as I once experienced in the sea. I appreciate those who have been touched by my work in the past, and I hope to inspire the same for years to come as my eye attracts new life.
Waikiki Beach, Oahu
It may not interest me as much anymore, but the water is and always will be good fun. Here’s a few…
January 5 - 6 2023
The last week has kept me busy; my mind wandering to different breaks, counties, and choice of gear. The Fuji is perfect because it inspires me to take further notice of beachgoers, street life, and natural elements on land so that I can surf. There’s something about leaving the camera for land that makes the water such a magical place. It’s rare to be fully immersed in a sport or activity for that long without any stimulation from a phone or camera. The ocean for the mind and soul; the land to fill a creative hole.
I’m tired, sore, and creatively fulfilled. When that purple blob manifests itself into all time winter fun zone, you have no choice but to panic. Where should I go? What should I do? What time should I go where? The whole community is on their toes yet hush hush. We all knew the secrets, and everybody showed up to the same spot. At the same time. Or has the surf population tripled since the last major swell? All you can do is wake up. Go. Drive around. Call your friends. Text that one person who scores way too often and get in on the secret.
These photographs were taken on January 5 and 6 during the “Pineapple Express” (?) storm. In the mountains, on land, and at the beach.
Southern California Coast
A regular foot’s dream…
