surf [ERICA at ZUMA BEACH]

January 22, 2014 melissa habegger

January 15th, Adam Reynolds (www.bhbsurf.com) handed me an extra camera and water housing and took me out for my first surf photo session. You guys.

We met up with Adam's friend Erica, who is a beautiful and graceful long-boarder (she just started last year. WHAT?). It was a calm and quiet day, the water exceptionally clear, so we treaded water and Adam shared tips and stories from his time as a surf photographer.

I love how challenging this kind of shooting is - so many moving parts between the subject, the water and your own buoyant body. I got a few good ones and can't wait to get back in and get better.

travel [with SARA at EL MATADOR BEACH]

November 25, 2013 melissa habegger

Location scouting. El Matador Beach.

celebration [LIFE ROLLS ON at Zuma Beach]

April 25, 2013 melissa habegger

my new & beautiful friend Amanda was just tapped to run development for Life Rolls On, an organization that aims to "inspire others to see the boundless possibilities beyond paralysis."

as someone who knows the profound healing benefits of spending time out in the ocean, i feel indebted to organizations that focus on making the magic of surfing available to those who may not take it upon themselves to find a way out there. (Surfers Healing is another organization close to my heart). so when Amanda asked me if I'd like to stop by and take photographs, i jumped at the chance.

the short surf sessions create a ripple effect of love, gratitude and excitement - for the athletes, their families on the beach, and the volunteers.