Swell time for UK surf photographers
Alex WilliamsAs seasonal swells roll in from the Atlantic, autumn is the prime time for UK surfing photographers to take their best shots.
Mike Lacey is a professional surf photographer from Praa in Cornwall who specialises in getting right in the impact zone, where waves crash on to the beach.
Ben Pascoe from Plymouth runs a blog, Learning to Surf Photography, and Alex Williams is a professional photographer whose work has featured in surfing, windsurfing and skateboarding magazines around the world.
Alex Williams
Alex, from south Devon, gives some top tips for those who want to shoot the lip:
- Research the beaches, where the best spots are and how the wind and swell change with the tides
- Don't go shooting after storms because the water will be like pea soup
Alex Williams
Alex Williams- Keep shooting and shooting. It used to be expensive to take loads of pictures but digital technology means you can make mistakes without breaking the bank
- Work with good surfers who know where to position themselves for the best shots
Alex Williams- Learn how to make the most out of your equipment - a wide angle fish-eye lens is great for hollow and barrelling waves.
- Look for the shots away from the action. Get shots of the surfing personalities on the beach - make a story out of your session.
- Stay committed. It is hard dragging on a cold wetsuit at dawn but the hour after is the so-called "magic hour" when the light is at its best.
"Remember, surf photography is as rewarding as surfing, especially when you get great shots back," he said.
Ben Pascoe
Ben has been taking photos and shooting videos of surfing for more than 20 years.
He runs a blog to "help surf photographers like me get the right gear and improve their surf photography".
Ben Pascoe
Ben Pascoe
Ben Pascoe
Ben PascoeMike Lacey
Mike puts himself in the most dangerous part of a wave in search of the perfect shot.
He says: "Every time I come out of the water I feel so much more energised and focused."
Mike Lacey
Mike Lacey
Mike Lacey