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Taking photos, one wave at a time

Rammohan Paranjape has been taking photographs of surfers and the surf scene for the last 10 years. He is perhaps India's first and only surf photographer who's been documenting the surf scene since it's early days. His work, which has been widely published in magazines around the world, have played a key role in putting India on the global surf map. The 26-year-old tells Marisha Karwa that while the life of a surf photographer is about life satisfaction, it is not necessarily an easy one.

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How did you get into surf photography?
I have always been passionate about photography. Most surf photographers across the world become so after surfing themselves. Surfing photography is done from land and from water (but not while on a surf board). I started learning photography and surfing at the same time — when I was about 16. At the time, we needed someone to document surfing at the Mantra Surf Club for the website. I didn't have anyone to look up to or learn from, so I just picked it up on my own. Eventually, I started to follow a few photographers — Zack Noil of Hawaii, Chris Burkard of California and Asutralians Morgan Mason and Russell Ord — whose work I admire, and learnt a lot from just observing their work.

What are the key skills that a surf photographer must possess?
The most important thing is to have a great fascination for surf photos. One also has to understand the sport of surfing itself and how to swim and survive in water. It is an extreme sport, after all. To be able to get good photos, one has to know the sport, get into the water, know what to click and when to click. Sometimes, you have to remain in the water with a camera for quite some time because you can't predict nature or rush a wave.

Is it easy to be one?
I've been doing surf photography professionally for the last five-six years, and while it is very satisfying, it is not easy. One has to constantly keep improvising – be a better swimmer, be in water when conditions are extreme and the ocean is rough. Being a surf photographer requires all these skill and the time to learn it over the years.
Besides, surf photography equipment is expensive. One small mistake can mean you end up damaging the costly gear. What makes matters worse is that there's no money in surf photography. There are no surf magazines in India. The little money that comes, comes from international publications. This is one of the biggest reasons why many don't take up surf photography in India.

Which is your favourite place for surf photography?
Mulki is my all-time favourite. But my most amazing shots have come from Lakshwadeep and Andaman islands. The water at these places is crystal clear.

As an observer, what do you think has been the cultural impact of surfing?
I've seen how surfing has exploded in India, leading to inspiring tales. I've seen kids of so many fishermen take to surfing that their lives have changed. And now, it is for these kids to take it up seriously and become good surfers and compete and win.

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