UPDATE: There is a new, improved page available here: Learningsurfphotography Recommended Surf Photography Gear

I have had some sort of camera for filming and photographing surfing for over 15 years, in that time a lot has changed, I’ve made my way from disposable waterproof cameras to professional Aquatech sports housings, 8mm analogue tape to high speed SDHC cards and 35mm point and shoots to a Canon 70D DSLR, with plenty in between.

So I’m in a good position to offer some advice for anyone learning surf photography on what gear to spend your money on, I’ll try to offer you a few options in three different categories from budget friendly beginner to improving hobbyist and finishing up with gear suitable for an experienced photographer who wants to get into surf photography.

I’ve broken it down into categories for you:

Photographing Surf From the Land

If you don’t want to venture into the water you’ll need a long focal length to get close to the action at the vast majority of surf spots, click here to get my recommendations for cameras and accessories for shooting surf from the land.

Photographing Surf From the Water

The part I love most about surf photography is getting into the action, and that means getting in the sea, I’m breaking this down into camera related equipment and more general gear that is just as essential but not related directly to cameras.

Accessories

Anything that doesn’t fit into the categories above goes here, this includes items that will help store and transport your gear.