Photo Gallery: Ian Deveau
Most surf photographers are surfers themselves, at least most of the ones we know. So how does one surf photographer delineate the right time to catch waves as opposed to catching them on camera? A struggle between body and creativity you might not have known existed. Ian Deveau, photographer and surfer, gives us a little look as to the answer. Including visual aids. Take it away Ian.
I get asked that a lot after a run of swell at home here in Rhode Island. My answer is usually, “Kind of.”
It’s always a toss-up for me of when to shoot, and when to surf, especially when the waves are good. Fear of missing out is an understatement. I lose sleep the night before trying to plan out a strategy. Check the waves here early. If it’s good, maybe take some photos first. If it’s really good, surf first, shoot after. If it’s not good, go somewhere else and shoot? What if the light changes? What if it gets good?
“Any chance you got a photo of my last wave?”
“Maybe.” What happens is. I usually surf first… and then when I start shooting, things start to look a little different. I’m obsessed with shooting waves with a slow shutter. I like framing shots with people in the foreground. I like silhouettes and grainy black and whites. And sometimes, after a long day, I like to eat half an edible and just make some images that feel good to me. So yes, I think I got your last wave… but it’s probably blurry, and no one will know it was you.
