I wanted to create an image that unveils the behind-the-scenes of a photographer’s profession—the contrast between its challenges and effortless flow, the delicate balance between unreality, disaster, and paradox. Every detail of the shoot was meticulously planned.
I found a broken camera myself, ensuring it would serve as the perfect prop. Before this, I spent a long time mastering how to ride a JetSurf. My wife took the photograph, following my precise directions and settings. It took countless attempts, passing by over and over again, to capture the perfect split-second frame.
Getting such a shot is no easy task—from the very start, balancing on the board while holding a heavy camera is a challenge. A sharp maneuver was needed to create the dramatic splash, all while keeping my eye through the viewfinder. There were countless falls and retries until I felt the shot had finally been captured.
My son filmed a video of the process to ensure no one would think the image was AI-generated.
Looks like it would be a good ad for Nikon. Good job.
OMG this hits too close to home. I have been trying to do this same exact shoot for the last few months (not with a camera in the hand though). I have a buddy who has a Jet board, and the last attempt we tried, water got into the air intake and the shoot was totally done. Not sure if this image will make the final cut later this month, but if so, I'd love to talk about it haha. Killer shot!
Three years of learning with JetSurf to capture this shot, because It’s quite challenging to start riding a JetSurf while holding a heavy camera in one hand from from shallow water. This is reason why pants are wet but suit is dry. To organize such a photoshoot, I needed a camera and lens that could safely be submerged in seawater, as there’s a 99.9% chance the surfer will fall into the water when finishing ride. Calm weather without waves to have ideal start point and don't fall in water on start. Suit, sun position, camera, weather, training, photographer all to get this shot. And sorry Baltic sea don't have hills in the background. Thx for third place !