I have spent years photographing surfers and surfing events. My goal is often to capture critical moves on the wave, body language that speaks to the difficulty of the sport and facial expressions that hint at the ultimate joy of surfing. Yet these are typically solo representations as surfing is primarily an individual sport. That is, until you watch adaptive surfing…

What is Adaptive Surfing

Generally, adaptive surfing is where someone with a physical, visual or emotional challenge takes to the waves. For competitive purposes such as the Paralympics or ISA sanctioned events, para surfing has a number of classifications based on limitations, but that is just the technical details of the sport. Once in the water, the team aspect shines through.

Why Do I Call it a Team Sport?

Para surfers work with a team of pushers and catchers. The pushers assist the surfer to get out through the breaking waves, get in position, and then take off on a wave. The catchers are on the inside of the break and are there to assist in the case of a wipeout. Depending on the level of physical limitation, it can be critical for the catchers to get to the surfer as soon as they come off their board so the team is comprised of superb watermen and waterwomen. The best teams are part encouragement, part strength and part rescue. Yet when it all works together, it is all awesome!

How to Capture Images of Adaptive Surfing

Just like any surf competition, there are critical moments to watch for. The takeoff, the drop, and the bottom turn make for signature moments. Depending on the conditions, it may be best to photograph from a steep angle to capture a barrel or straight on in smaller waves. The added element is the rest of the team. Pulling back a bit allows the photographer to capture parts of the team in action, giving a greater sense of all the pieces the make up adaptive surfing.

Witnessing the Joy

There are a number of special moments that take place in an adrenaline-filled sport like adaptive surfing. The best teams are fully committed and the emotions are shown on their faces. The competitors have trained so hard for their events and are clearly stoked when they perform on a clean wave. High-fives are prevalent and there is a special interaction that is unique to this version of the sport. These moments, though difficult to capture, are images that I find truly resonate.