How I got into action sports photography

I’ve always been most at home in the water. When people would say, “You must be a fish,” or “You're a mermaid,” it felt right. I grew up swimming, surfing, diving—anything that kept me close to the ocean. Over time, it became more than just a love for water; it became a lifestyle.

Eventually, I started teaching water sports, which only deepened my connection to the sea. But everything shifted when I picked up a camera. I began photographing athletes doing the same sports I lived for—and something clicked. I realized I might actually be able to turn this passion into a profession.

That summer, I teamed up with an athlete who was just as obsessed with creating as I was. We spent every spare moment shooting, pushing creative limits, and experimenting. Having someone to collaborate with—to throw ideas around with and chase the same level of dedication—was a game-changer. It helped me shape my own style and understand what I wanted from this path.

It’s not all golden light and epic action shots, though. Some days mean hours spent treading water, baking under the sun, or chasing waves with a camera in hand. You have to train like the athletes you’re photographing—staying in shape is essential. Safety, too, is non-negotiable. You’ve got to read the water, understand the conditions, and be honest with yourself. There’s never any shame in saying, “This isn’t my day to go out.” That self-awareness can keep you safe when things get unpredictable.

What keeps me coming back is how exhilarating and fulfilling this work can be. There’s nothing like the rush of freezing that perfect moment in time—an athlete mid-air, a wave just beginning to curl, the kind of image that tells a story without saying a word. But honestly? It all comes down to connection. When you find your people—the athletes who trust you, and who you trust in return—that’s when the most unforgettable shots happen.