AudiNines Surf Week Portugal 2018

The more I deal with the topic of surf photography, the more I have the feeling that you have to use a number of clichés. But what’s so bad about that, I wonder? So here they are: the kitschy sunsets, casual surf lessons paired with the fantastic beaches of the Algarve in Portugal.

Exactly a year ago, surf fever hit me here on the beach in Armado. At that time I was invited to the week as a winner at the Nine Royales photocontest. Since then, I have become increasingly interested in giving surf photography a chance. No sooner said than done: surf housing for my camera borrowed from a colleague in Munich and off to the beach. Once there I realize: I would prefer to surf the water myself, but it doesn’t help. If you do not work hard you will not see any results. And whether you need more patience when surfing yourself or taking photos with the surfer — I can’t tell you exactly.

You should definitely have time and a heap of luck in your luggage. Because you hardly see what you are photographing. Let alone choose your perspectives in peace, the sea does not play along either. Most of the time you are more concerned with kicking yourself exactly into the line of fire of the athlete, so that you don’t miss the shot. If the current blows well, the wrestle is twice as much fun. So you come back to the beach after every photo session and it’s like unpacking your camera from a surprise bag — you never know what’s inside. So far there have always been a handful of usable photos. My big respect to all incredibly talented and hard-working professionals out there — the job is a bit tough. Even if it sounded exaggerated and negative: it’s really fun!

In addition, despite the endless chances on the water, I have somehow only improved to a limited extent over the past few months and paddle myself every time — but the whole thing still does not let go so easily.

A year and, for me, countless rinses in the washing machine later, it was time: I had the chance to accompany the Audi Nines athletes back to the Pure Surf Camps Lodge in Portugal — this time not only for surfing, but also as a photographer. Those who asserted themselves as contest winners at the Audi Nines (or the year before at Nines Knights MTB) were invited to a week’s surf trip to the Lodge again this year.

This week was once again indescribable and at the same time — unfortunately, as always — far too short. The area around Faro has a lot to offer: if you don’t yet know the cliffs of the Algarve and the endless surf beaches, you should pay the region a visit. Let the countless surf buses inspire you to dream forever. If you want to chat about the photos, feel free to drop me a message. Thanks to everyone involved for the great time — see you next time, Algarve.

Interested in my work? Get in touch and work with me!