It has been said that a picture represents a thousand words. To the right person though, a picture can represent a singular feeling or specific moment in life.
It has also been said that Daniel Russo is one of the best surf photographers in the world, who so happens to have a relationship with our town that many people around here can relate to: a love for Montauk. After a long career of shooting images and building his archive, — containing some of the greatest waves, surfers and moments in surfing history — Russo has become one of those people who can relate images to pivotal moments, feelings and words that only he can describe.
We supplied Daniel with 9 creative words and asked him to dig through his archives to find images that he feels represent each word.
1. Ambition

This image is something I wanted to capture for a long time. When it finally happened, I felt like I had gotten an A in class. Raimana Van Bastolaer, under the lip at Teahupo’o.
2. Detached
3. Trippy
4. Nostalgic

Sion Milosky on the biggest wave ever paddled. We were living amongst a legend and it was an honor to be apart of his history. “Live Like Sion.” Outer Reef, Hawaii (2010).
5. Innovation
6. Froth
7. Abyss

The Tahitian Abyss. The channel at Teahupoo is one of the deepest, scariest drop offs in the world. This is the buoy tie off zone where you have to swim down to attach your ski or boat.
8. Iconic

Sonny Miller. R.I.P. to the greatest cinematographer ever. A honest human who had true passion for his art and lifestyle.
9. Montauk

Joel Tudor at a place he is all too familiar with — Ditch Plains. P.S. Montauk Brew Co. = best beer in the world.