Today we dedicate a space on our blog to my great friend and expert in underwater photography and giant waves, Fran Rodríguez
https://www.instagram.com/franrodriguezphotography?igsh=MWk2ZXJ5dmNxeWppMQ==
“I started in water photography back in 2010, when I bought my first camera — a decision that would lead me to develop my passion for capturing giant waves. A year later, I got my first water housing, and since then I haven’t been apart from the ocean. Today, with more than 14 years of experience in water photography, I’m still chasing the power, beauty, and artistry hidden within the sea.”
What photography gear do you usually use?
I work with Canon cameras, always choosing according to what I need:
A good burst speed to capture the exact moment.
High ISO sensitivity to work in different lighting conditions.
A lens suited to the distance and the type of wave or action I’m going to photograph.
How would you define your style?
My approach combines nature photography with specialties like surf, bodyboard, and freediving. What truly inspires me the most are giant waves — those that reveal the ocean’s raw power in all its splendor.
How do you prepare for a session?
Before getting in the water, I can spend days or even months waiting for the ideal conditions:
Wind direction and strength, High or low tide, The right light (sunrise, sunset, or midday).
Before I dive in, I hydrate, apply sunscreen, rest well, prepare my gear, and head out into the sea ready to capture unique images.
What light and conditions make the magic happen?
Lighting is essential. I love playing with backlight during sunsets or using filtered light on cloudy days, but I prefer skies with texture and contrast over a flat blue sky. It all depends on what I want to convey in each image.
Inspiration and photography philosophy
My advice for beginners is to flow and follow your inspiration. Photography is an art, and each person should find their style over time — just like one of my main references, Ray Collins, an Australian photographer whose story is very similar to mine.
What places do you dream of photographing?
Iceland, Ireland, Tahiti, and Australia — all of them have one thing in common: the majesty of their nature and their waves.
What are the challenges and dangers in the ocean?
Water photography comes with its risks:
Drowning or losing equipment.
Encounters with dangerous animals or jellyfish.
Accidents with jet skis (yes, I was almost run over by one once!).
One last piece of advice
Don’t doubt yourself so much! I’ve been guilty of questioning my own skills.
You have to take the plunge and not overthink things, because the best shot always comes when you’re in the water, ready to shoot.