Surfers Waiting at Lighthouse Point
Feb, 2016Views
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Same photographer See allBehind The Lens
Behind The Lens
Location
This image was taken from the bluffs near Lighthouse point in Santa Cruz. I am high above the water about the same height as the surfers across the beach. The surfers are jumping in to surf "Steamers", a popular place to surf.Time
As you can see from the shadows on the left of the wave and the light in front it is late in afternoon.Lighting
With this image it wasn't so much about the lighting as it was about capturing this giant wave. Sometimes you just have to wait, and don't always get the perfect lighting and subject at the same time. But this one came closeEquipment
I had at this time a Nikon D610, a Nikon 70-200 f2.8 lens, placed the camera and lens on top of my camera bag, as I was lying on my stomach.Inspiration
It was the time of year when "Mavericks" are breaking around the area. I originally I had the lighthouse included in the capture.Editing
Cropped this a whole lot, took out the lighthouse and concentrated on the surfers and wave. Some Light Room and Photoshop, adjustment.In my camera bag
Usually have a Nikon 24-120 f4. lens, a Nikon 70-200 f2.8 lens, a Nikon 50mm 1.4 lens and Nikon 2x TC. depending on what I'm shooting and what I hope to accomplish, I have a variety of "Lee" filters and several polarizing filters. Of course the lens cleaning stuff, and a highly absorbent towl for wet times.Feedback
I always check the weather and tides if I am capturing waves. I like clouds in my images, but sometimes as in this image, the subject is more important and not always available. I sometimes plan to stay the day and pack snakes and water. Always be safe when shooting at the ocean, know where the waves break and where they might have a rogue one. If the shoot is not far from home base, you might want to come before your planned shoot and check out the best angle from which to capture your image. Of course bring your camera gear just in case you find an opportunity for a great shot.
