Jasper Mulder: 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 up and coming surf photographer Jasper Mulder from the Netherlands. 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?
To be honest looking back, I had a very interesting childhood. I’m originally from the Netherlands, but didn’t live in the Netherlands until I was 8 years old. At the age of 1, my parents and myself moved to Ghana in the capital city Accra. A few years later we moved to Malta, a small island just below Italy. This was due to the work of my father as he was a chef for a big hotel hotel chain. I have always been surrounded by the ocean or lakes, plus I have been doing water sports since I can remember. So my passion for the ocean came naturally.
What Came First, Surfing or Photography?
I started off with surfing and I think only a year later I got into my surf photography. Once I got into surf photography I found out that this is my true passion, so now days you can find me in the water with a camera rather than a board.
How Did You Get Into Surf Photography?
At the age of 20 I actually moved back to Malta to become a dive instructor. During my time in Malta as a diving instructor each year a very famous underwater photographer would come to the dive center to take pictures of the incredible deep sea wrecks in Malta. I was so impressed with all the underwater photography gear, I decided that I wanted to become a photographer myself. Photography is not cheap, especially underwater photography. Luckily one of my friends was selling his underwater housing, so I took my chances and bought it along with the camera which fits in the housing. I did not have a clue how a camera really worked, but I thought this is my chance. Slowly I got the hang of it and starting making my way into the photography scene. During a surf trip to Sri Lanka I started getting into surf photography, and wow the feeling of capturing an incredible surf photo was even bigger than taking photos underwater. From that moment I starting developing my surf photography skills.
Where Do You Normally Shoot?
Beginning 2022 I moved back to the Netherlands to pursuit my dream becoming a professional photographer, so most of my time I shoot in Wijk aan Zee, in the Netherlands. As the summer is coming to an end, it’s time to get some thicker equipment on as the water in the Netherlands can get pretty cold during winter!
Where Do You Shoot? Water or Land?
I have always opted to shoot in the water. When I’m in the water my creativity is endless. I can do crisp, sharp images or create anything by using slow shutter speeds. You name it and I’ll do it. A few weeks back I bought myself a telephoto lens, so I’m very keen to be creative on land now as well.
What Makes The Perfect Image?
If you ask me there is no such thing as a perfect image. There will always be a few thing to say about the image, plus different people will have different opinion about the image. If you have the perfect image it means there is no room for improvement, and there is always room for improvement.
How Did You Become So Involved In The Surf Scene?
I learned how to surf in Malta and as the surf community is not very big in Malta everyone knew each other. Once I got into the surf photographer people started to ask for images and to shoot for surf events. Plus if you keep rocking up when there are waves you will slowly get involved into the scene this way.
Do You Have A Favourite Photographer That Has Inspired You?
There are so many good photographers out there and everyone has their own unique way of shooting. I try to not look at other photographers as you will easily compare yourself with them, but if I have to point out one photographer it has to be Ben Thouard. I’m fascinated about his way of shooting as he creates a totally different image by using slower shutter speeds. I tend to do it myself as I really like to let the viewer think about the image.
What's Your Biggest Challenge To Overcome When Shooting?
I think my biggest challenge is getting a financial opportunity in the surfing industry. As a photographer it can be hard to be recognised as there are so many other photographers out there. I believe if you can make your self unique from others, you will get recognised sooner or later. Patience is everything.
Jasper's Equipment List
Camera & Lenses
Jasper sticks with his Sony A7 III using a mix of the Sony FE 70-200mm F/4.0, Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 and Sony FE 50mm f/1.8. When shooting in the water he uses a Liquid Eye C2060 II for Sony A7 III.
Jasper's Favourite Shot Taken
Personal Message
Enjoy every moment in the water and live the moment. It sounds very cheese, but it’s true. Before you know it that one perfect wave is over....
Jasper's Future Plans
My future plans are to put my name out as a surf photographer, hoping to get recognition for my images. To keep learning and improving my skills as a photographer. Moreover it would be a dream come true to be able to shoot abroad for a long period of time.
Follow @jaspermulder_photography
"I’m always interested in meeting new people in the surf photography scene as we all share the same passion. It’s nice to talk and share stories or even ideas. For that reason people can contact me through my Instagram "
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
