Editor's Note: Our "How I Got the Shot" feature talks with today's leading photographers to get the story behind their most captivating surf photos. This article features surf photographer Jared Weintraub.
This moment in the water in Laguna Beach was pure magic!
With my water housing snugly protecting my camera, I waded into the surf, feeling the cool water against my skin as I waited for the perfect shot.
The sunset cast this warm, golden light over everything, turning the whole scene into something straight out of a dream.Â
As I floated there, swimming vigorously against the current, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the beauty surrounding me. Then, out of nowhere, I spotted it — a set wave cresting in the distance, ready to collide with powerful backwash from the sea wall behind me.
My heart raced as I positioned myself, ready to capture that split-second moment when the wave would flare up in a spectacular display.Â
With a quick click of my camera shutter, I froze that moment in time forever.
The wave exploded into a cascade of foam and spray, backlit by the golden hues of the sunset.
It was like nature smiled at me, and I was lucky enough to be there to witness it.
As I emerged from the water, grinning from ear to ear, I knew I had captured an epic shot — a memory that would stay with me forever.Â
For more of Jared's surf photography, visit his website.