Andrea Pedrazzetti: Surf Photographer
Beyond The Frame
Welcome to another episode of Surf Bank's Beyond The Frame where we dive into the captivating world of surf and ocean photography, going beyond mesmerising captures exploring the backstory of many talented photographers. In this episode we will be hearing from passionate surf photographer Andrea Pedrazzetti, originating from Switzerland he mainly shoots across the Canary Islands, Nicaragua, Sri-Lanka and USA. Beyond the frame aims to inspire and inform future surf photographers and ocean lovers being your backstage pass to detailed insights from the minds behind stunning surf shots.
What Did Your Childhood Look Like?
I grew up in Switzerland where there were lots of mountain and snow, but no oceans or seas at all. I started skiing when I was 2 and snowboarding when I was 10. I fell in love with the freestyle approach to these 2 sports from the very beginning, and from that moment on I always tried to find the best powder and the best jumps to hit. This passion culminated in my decision to study to become a freestyle coach. From the age of 13 I also started filming and editing the first videos with my friends. As time went by, my interest for videography and photography grew bigger, until 2020 when I became a full time videographer and photographer.
What Came First, Surfing or Photography?
Photography. As I mentioned, I grew up practicing “similar but different” sports. For me, as for many other snowboarders, surfing was always on my bucket list as something that I was sure I would enjoy. Some years ago I was in the Canary Islands on holiday and I decided to finally try surfing. I was pretty cocky; I went to the surf shop and asked for a hardboard, thinking that my snowboard skills would have been more than enough to start surfing by myself. I was wrong! I remember staying in the water for hours and managing to take 1 or 2 white washes. Not the start I was hoping for.
How Did You Get Into Surf Photography?
Two years after my first (unsuccessful) surf experience, I decided to take it more seriously and took part in a surf camp in Nicaragua. From the first green wave that I caught I knew I was in love with this sport. For me, travelling is an opportunity to try and discover something new with my camera. I took my first surfing pictures during that trip in Nicaragua. Since then, I catch any opportunity to try improving my skills, both in surfing and taking surf pictures.
Where Do You Normally Shoot?
Everywhere I go surfing. For now in Canary Islands, Nicaragua, Sri-Lanka and USA.
Where Do You Shoot? Water or Land?
I normally shoot from land, but I recently started to take videos from the water. I’m looking forward to buying new gear in order to explore more the water side.
What Makes The Perfect Image?
The right athlete with the right light.
How Did You Become So Involved In The Surf Scene?
Being born in Switzerland and away from the ocean, I’m sadly not that involved in the Surf Scene. However, I know for sure that I want to change that in my future.
Do You Have A Favourite Photographer That Has Inspired You?
I follow a lot of people whose works deeply inspire me. Last February I met Eze Zaccardi in Sri-Lanka and we spent some time together. I love his pictures and him as a person. I love discussing photography with him and I hope to be able to meet him again soon.
What's Your Biggest Challenge To Overcome When Shooting?
From land trying to find “new” frames or new techniques to create unique pictures. In the water, the currents.
Andrea's Equipment List
Camera & Lenses
Andrea's sticks with his Sony Alpha 7III attached with Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS
Andrea's Favourite Shot Taken
One of the first surfing shots I ever took. The rider is Walter Reyes, my first surf instructor.
Personal Message
Enjoy every wave!
Andrea's Future Plans
Travelling for surfing and starting new video projects.
Do You Want To Be Involved In Beyond The Frame?
Are you a surf photographer wanting your story told? You may be our next Beyond The Frame feature! Please get in touch with us over email so we can get a conversation going: info@thesurfbank.com
