A shot list for surfing photo shoots
Keeping this one handy
Meeting other women surfers has been one of my greatest joys since moving to the Central Coast. This summer I will be learning in water surf photography, which I’m genuinely excited for. In the meantime, I have been shooting my gal friends pre- and post-surf. I did a lot of research prior to my first shoot of other surf photographers that I admire, and I’m still getting new inspiration weekly. Below is a shot list that I prepared and have saved on my phone. There are so many possible variations of these, but I think it’s helpful to have some structure beforehand. From there, all sorts of creative options pop up.
Back of the car. This is where we all get ready and also where a lot of our boards live.
Searching for waves. Usually a friend is at a higher vantage point than the water. For example, at Shell Beach we look out from the top of the Beachcomber stairs.
Waxing the board. I mix up the full body shots with a close-up of hands doing the waxing.
The board itself. This can be the full board and just fins.
Reflection. When this works out it’s so nice – it usually it has to be at early morning or sunset.
Walking towards the water. I take a step back from the subject to get a zoomed out shot as they enter
A long distance shot. I then move even further back to get a wider view of the surrounding landscape.
Board over head. This is a classic silhouette for longboarders and I think always looks beautiful.
Face close-up. The ocean is special to us and brings so much joy! Often I can see faces light up just walking to the water.
The accessories. All of the other surf knick knacks that live in our cars round out the story.
I’m always looking to take photos of surfers. There’s so much variety, motion, and beauty to our way of life. And more to come - I’ve been searching for water housing and water-based film cameras for this summer.