Surfing Photography: Capturing the Magic of Imsouane, Morocco

January 2025 marked the beginning of a new year and a new challenge for me as a photographer. I’d ventured to Morocco on New Years Eve to celebrate with friends, catch some waves, and explore a completely new country and continent.

Armed with my camera, a few of my favourite lenses and the urge to try something new. I dove headfirst into the world of surfing photography as thrill-seekers tackled the famous waves of Magic Bay and Cathedral Bay by the hundreds.

To Surf or to Capture? That is the question

On a day where I decided to stay on dry land and capture my friends enjoying the waves, I was met with some funny looks by those who I were travelling with. It was difficult for them to understand that I get as much joy capturing the waves with my camera as I do catching them on a surfboard.

As someone with a passion for photographing dynamic moments, surfing photography seemed like the perfect way to spend a whole day. That and avoiding any chance of sunburn. It combines action, nature, and storytelling, all elements I love to photograph and demonstrate in my work. Imsouane, known for its laid-back vibe and stunning surf spots, provided the perfect backdrop.

Magic Bay: A Surf Photographer’s Dream

Magic Bay is the crown jewel of Imsouane. And possibly even Morocco. Boasting some of the longest and most surf-able waves in Western Africa, giving surfers plenty of opportunities to carve their way to shore. Positioned atop the cliffs with my Sigma 150-600mm I could zoom in on surfers from above, capturing the interplay between rider and wave with remarkable clarity.

The golden hour at Magic Bay offered one of the best sunsets I’ve ever seen, let alone had the pleasure of photographing. The soft light illuminated the waves, creating dramatic contrasts that highlighted the energy and skill of the surfers.

The Challenges of Photography in Cathedral Bay

Cathedral Bay, on the other hand, offers a different vibe. Its choppier waves and rugged scenery present a challenge to surfers and photographers alike. Standing on the shoreline, I could feel the energy of the ocean, a constant reminder of nature’s raw power. Throughout my time in Imsouane a few fleeting moments passed where I considered getting into the water at Cathedral Bay. Common sense kicked in and I admired the action from ashore instead.

Here, timing became even more critical. The unpredictable nature of the waves demanded quick adjustments to camera settings and a keen eye for composition. The Sigma 150-600mm proved invaluable, allowing me to capture surfers mid-action. The difference between a good shot and capturing spray being just milliseconds apart.

How the Sigma 150-600mm Lens Elevated My Surf Photography

This lens was the real MVP of the trip. Its incredible reach meant I could stay a respectful distance from the action while still capturing every detail, from the spray of water as a surfer carved into a wave, to the focused expressions on their faces.

The versatility of the Sigma 150-600mm also allowed me to experiment with different perspectives, from wider shots capturing the awesome landscape within the bays to tight frames showcasing the intricate movements and concentration of individual surfers.

The Challenges Magic Bay Presented

Surf photography is not without its hurdles. Timing is everything. You have to anticipate the surfer’s movements, align with the rhythm of the waves, and make adjustments to compensate for unpredictable lighting, all within a split second.

Not only that, you’re surrounded by sand which gets absolutely everywhere. I carry with me a lens and camera cleaning kit at all times. But it’s not always possible to get rid of every grain and spec that makes it onto your kit.

When shooting at a higher f-Stop such at f5.0 and above, anything that finds it’s way onto the lens or sensor will be visible in the final image. Luckily Adobe Lightroom’s eraser tool is on hand and a lifesaver for cleaning up unwanted spots and dots found on lots of the images.

Capturing Moments of Magic in Surfing Photography

Despite the learning curves, there were moments that made it all worthwhile. Some of the most satisfying captures were the ones below. Just people making their way back up the bay carrying surfboards into the setting sun.

As mentioned earlier in the article, the Moroccan sunsets in Imsouane are incredible beautiful. So much that hundreds of people would gather on the cliff tops every evening to watch as the sun disappears over distant horizon.

Tips for Aspiring Surf Photographers

If you’re considering venturing into surfing photography, here are a few tips that helped me during my time in Imsouane:

1. Invest in the Right Gear: A telephoto lens like the Sigma 150-600mm is a game-changer for capturing distant subjects with precision.
2. Scout Your Location: Understanding the layout of the surf spot can help you find the best vantage points.
3. Be Patient: Great shots often come after hours of observing and waiting for the perfect wave.
4. Experiment with Angles: Don’t be afraid to move around and try different perspectives to add variety to your shots.
5. Respect the Environment: Keep a safe distance from the action to protect both yourself and the surfers.

My first experience in surfing photography taught me the importance of patience and adaptability. It’s not just about capturing the perfect shot; it’s about immersing yourself in the environment, figuring out what background and foreground works, and appreciating the skill and bravery of the surfers.

I also learned to embrace imperfections. Some of my favourite shots were the ones I hadn’t planned. For example the featured image of this article was one of the first surfing photos I took through the entire trip. When I looked back through the camera roll on my Sony A7IV I was speechless. Arguably one of the best photos I’ve ever taken!

What’s Next for My Surf Photography Journey?

Imsouane has ignited a new passion for me. I’m eager to explore more surf spots and refine my skills as a surf photographer. Whether it’s the pristine beaches of Cornwall, the rugged shores of Portugal, or the not so tropical waters of Wales. I’m ready to take on the challenge.

If you are planning a surf event or competition and would like professional coverage from start to finish. Get in touch to discuss photography and videography packages tailored to you and your brand. You can get me via the Contact Me Page by clicking here.