Surf photographer Daniel Russo captures the awesome power of shore breaks
- Text by Alex King
- Photography by Daniel Russo
Photographer Daniel Russo has swum in some of the world’s most powerful waves to capture surfing’s A-listers like Nathan Fletcher or Joel Tudor destroying Puerto Escondio, Pipeline, and Cloudbreak.
Hawaii-born Russo is the only photographer to have the cover of Surfer, Surfing, and Transworld – all in one month.
When he looked back towards the beach after the action had passed him by and focussed his lens on the waves exploding against the shore, he discovered how to capture the awesome power and the mysterious beauty of the ocean.
In this edit for California eyewear brand SALT Optics, Daniel explains his relationship with the sea and the story behind this incredible series of photos.
You might like
Princess Julia: “I always state my age as I can’t believe I’m still around”
First lady — As the latest Artist-In-Residence of Huck 83, the London nightlife legend speaks to Josh Jones and provides a few recommendations and words of wisdom.
Written by: Josh Jones
Moshpits & kickflips at the Volcom Garden Experience 2026
Family affair — Last weekend, the skate, surf and snow culture brand hosted a free mini festival in its European backyard of Biarritz. We went along and chatted to legendary artist and surfer Ozzie Wright.
Written by: Isaac Muk
As the Cornwall & Devon coastline gentrifies, what’s left at UK surfing’s spiritual home?
Priced out – Once belonging to anyone willing to be cold and thrown around underwater, the sport is becoming increasingly inaccessible, as second homes and commodification reshape England’s southwestern shores.
Written by: Noah Petersons
A luminous portrait of Black life over six decades
Shared Memories — As staff photographer for The New York Times, Chester Higgins captured Black culture and spiritual connection like no other. A new exhibition celebrates his life and impact.
Written by: Miss Rosen
An intimate window into New York’s ’70s lesbian scene
We Others — An exhibition at The Photographer’s Gallery combines Donna Gottschalk’s unearthed photographs of LGBTQ+ activists and friends, along with Hélène Gianneccini’s written histories.
Written by: Miss Rosen
A tender portrait of life and ritual from Mexico City’s streets
Órale — For the last six years of his life, photographer, collector and designer Michel Hurst documented death rituals, street life and religious pageantry in contemporary Mexico. A new monograph showcases his work.
Written by: Roxana Diba
