Ever wondered what it takes to capture the raw power of a 50-foot wave crashing down? Big wave photography isn’t just about clicking a button—it’s about survival, teamwork, and a dash of madness. But here’s where it gets controversial: while many see it as a thrill-seeker’s dream, others argue it’s a reckless gamble. Let’s dive into the world of those who dare to freeze these monstrous moments in time.
Imagine standing—or rather, floating—in the heart of Nazaré, Portugal, where waves don’t just crash; they explode. That’s where I found myself, camera in hand, trying to immortalize the chaos. But what led me there? Enter Maria Fernanda Bastidas, a name synonymous with big wave photography. For over a decade, she’s been chasing these liquid giants, both in and out of the water. Her journey began in landlocked Mexico City, where she traded her car for a camera and a one-way ticket to Hawaii. There, she trained with elite bodyboarders on Kauai’s North Shore and even swam 18 miles along the Nā Pali coast with Bethany Hamilton. Talk about diving headfirst into your passion.
‘I grew up in the city, but the ocean called me,’ Bastidas reflects. ‘When I’m in the water, everything else fades away.’ Her annual Big Wave Photography Workshop in Nazaré was my ticket to this adrenaline-fueled world. But let’s be clear—I’m a writer, not a photographer. My ‘skills’ boil down to pointing and shooting, letting nature and the surfer do the heavy lifting. Photography has always been both inspiring and intimidating, with its endless variables and steep learning curve. When I signed up for Bastidas’ workshop, I knew I was stepping into uncharted territory—surfing, technical photography, swimming, and rescue skills all rolled into one.
And this is the part most people miss: big wave photography isn’t a solo act; it’s a symphony of preparation, fear, and trust. ‘If you’re not 100% ready, don’t go,’ Bastidas warns. ‘The ocean doesn’t forgive mistakes.’ For three days at the OHAI Resort, I joined three other photographers for an intensive crash course. Despite a stomach bug sidelining me on day one, I jumped on a Jet Ski with Anthony Cardoso, a Nazaré local and founder of Nazaré Nexus. Cardoso’s decades of experience paddling, surfing, and now operating Jet Skis have made him a legend in these waters. ‘Safety is everything,’ he emphasizes. ‘Without it, nothing else matters.’
But safety isn’t just about equipment—it’s about mindset. Bastidas stresses the importance of being a strong swimmer, not just a surfer. ‘The ocean teaches you its language,’ she says. ‘You need to understand its force to capture it.’ Apnea training with Pedro ‘Jojo’ Barbudo of Wave Crushers Training Systems added another layer. ‘Underwater hockey taught us to stay calm and comfortable beneath the surface,’ he explains. ‘That’s where the magic happens.’
Here’s the controversial bit: some argue that pushing these limits is unnecessary, even irresponsible. But for those in the water, it’s about respect, not recklessness. You also need to be a first responder, trained in CPR and first aid. The Big Wave Risk Assessment Group (BWRAG) offers courses tailored for surfers, ensuring you’re prepared for the worst.
One lesson I learned the hard way? Fear is your friend, but panic is your enemy. ‘Fear keeps you alive,’ Bastidas says. ‘Panic kills.’ On the water, Cardoso echoes this: ‘We don’t go if conditions aren’t right. Every detail matters.’
But amidst the chaos, there’s a strange harmony. Out on the Jet Ski, I saw nothing but smiles. Lifeguards, spotters, photographers—everyone works together to keep the lineup safe and stoked. Watching big wave surfer Clément Roseyro take a beating in the impact zone, only to emerge grinning and bloodied, was a testament to this camaraderie. ‘That’s why we’re here,’ Cardoso said. ‘Everyone goes home safe.’
I managed to snap a few shots of Rodrigo Koxa, a Brazilian big wave legend, carving through waves like they were child’s play. ‘Big waves keep me present,’ he told me later. ‘Out here, it’s just instinct and trust. Without love, you can’t do this.’
So, is big wave photography worth the risk? That’s for you to decide. But one thing’s certain: it’s not a solo act. It’s a dance with nature, a test of limits, and a celebration of the human spirit. What do you think? Is this a pursuit of passion or a dangerous gamble? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments.
