Your Weekly Surf Snaps Roundup
Hey wave riders and lens legends, let's dive into the latest surf buzz that's making our community stoked! From Orlando's biggest industry party to Hawaii's most photogenic swells and the unsung heroes shaping coastal culture, here's what's rocking our world right now.
Surf Expo's 50th Anniversary Bash: Where the Industry Converges
Mark your calendars for January 7-9 because Orlando's Orange County Convention Center is about to transform into surf central. Surf Expo isn't just trade show business – it's a three-day love letter to coastal culture celebrating its golden anniversary. Expect big names like Yago Dora, Mick Fanning, and Luke Shepardson alongside legendary champions like Lisa Anderson and Shaun Tomson. Pro tip: Don't miss the free screening of 'We Go: Path to The Eddie' at OluKai's booth, featuring 2023 Eddie winner Luke Shepardson sharing insights into big-wave prep. The vibe? Pure stoke meets serious innovation, especially with the expanded Shoreline Outdoor category blending surf with adventure travel. As reported by Shop Eat Surf, this show proves coastal culture extends far beyond the beach.
Hawaii's Photographic Masterpieces: 2025's Most Iconic Waves
Ever wonder how surf photographers capture Pipeline's fury or Waimea's grace? The 2025 reel is here, and it's a masterclass in wave artistry. One pro shooter shared yesterday's highlight reel revealing a pro tip that's gold for any surf snapper: always keep the wave lip in frame. Especially crucial at those 20ft Waimea Bay sessions! The photographer also emphasized practical wisdom – hit record before leaving home (we've all been there with empty memory cards at dawn patrol) and invest in a remote trigger. With swells like these hitting Oahu regularly, it's no wonder 2025 was a breakthrough year for surf photography. For the full technical breakdown, check out Surf News Network's raw footage and see why these shots define the year.
Orange County's Cultural Wave Makers
While pros get the headlines, it's the community builders who truly keep surf culture alive. The Orange County Register just spotlighted Tri-Cities legends making waves beyond the lineup. Dana Point's Killer Dana surf shop owners Carrie and Mike Foster preserve history through their iconic shop and documentary 'Point Taken,' chronicling the famed surf break. San Clemente's Rachael Tilly continues dominating on the world longboard stage, while board shaper Matt Biolos shapes the tools of our trade. Becky Fleischauer leads USA Surfing, proving surf's impact stretches far past the shore. As Dana Point Times noted, these luminaries blend passion with purpose – just like our Surf Snaps tribe. Full list of influencers right here.
Whether you're prepping for surf expo, upgrading your surf photography game, or just soaking in coastal culture stories – keep riding that wave of inspiration. What's stoking your fire lately? Drop a comment below and share your surf snaps!