Dario Fink Surf Photographer
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 the talented Dario Fink surf photographer originating from Austria.
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.
Dario Fink Surf Photographer Gallery
What Did Your Childhood Look Like?
Since my early years, action sports have held a special place in my heart. I took up snowboarding at the age of 6, started skateboarding by 8, and finally embraced surfing at 21. Despite being a latecomer to the surf scene, my affinity for water had always been present.
As an energetic kid, the only activities that could calm my mind were skateboarding or snowboarding. I formed strong connections within those communities early on, and to this day, my greatest joy is found with a board beneath my feet. Although learning to surf proved to be the most challenging, it remains one of the most sublime experiences on this planet, a sentiment I've carried since childhood.
No clue where it came from or why it took me forever to paddle out for the first time, but psyched to have stumbled upon this third and hopefully final board obsession.
What Came First, Surfing or Photography?
I caught my first wave back in May 2017, and right after that, I jumped into photography. It's kinda hard to pinpoint the exact start of both since the early days were a bit of a blur on both fronts.
How Did You Get Into Surf Photography?
I went the classic route, applying to different surf camps in Portugal, and ended up scoring a gig down in the south, in the enchanting spot called Sagres. For me, surfing has always been more like art than a sport. That's why I wanted to capture it the way I see it.
Where Do You Normally Shoot?
Here's the funny twist - I'm stuck in landlocked Austria, so most of my photography revolves around this place and its surroundings. I try to squeeze in a few trips each year, but the waves haven't exactly been on my side in the past year. When I have the chance to go shoot some surf, I really love Portugal – the rough coastline and great people just make it that place I always love to return to.
Where Do You Shoot? Water or Land?
Well, it's a bit of both. I dig the thrill of shooting in the water, soaking in that adrenaline and vibing with the surfer I'm capturing. On the flip side, getting set up on land gives me this chill sense of time and freedom – just zoning in on the framing without any distractions.
What Makes The Perfect Image?
For me, it's all about the location. When you stumble upon that sweet spot with the perfect framing and lighting combo, that's when the magic unfolds.
How Did You Become So Involved In The Surf Scene?
Born and raised in Austria, where you need to clock over 13 hours on the road to catch a decent wave, I caught the surfing bug during a trip to Costa Rica. Always had this itch to ride the waves, but it took me about 7 years to finally dive in. After my first surf adventure, basically hitting up a surf camp and riding foamies, I was hooked.
The dream then shifted to working at one of those surf camps, and I got my chance on the stunning south coast of Australia – seriously one of the most jaw-dropping places I've ever laid eyes on. Sadly, I was just getting into photography back then, so no visual proof. Definitely a solid reason to roll back and capture where it all kicked off.
Do You Have A Favourite Photographer That Has Inspired You?
I'd say Simon Fitz, Sebastian Zanella or John Respondek to name a few...
What's Your Biggest Challenge To Overcome When Shooting?
Actually getting to go somewhere with surf! Last year I got the opportunity to start wake surfing around the lake where I live which is amazing, but it's of course not the real deal. Morocco is on the charts this year and hopefully somewhere warm and tropical as well.
Dario Fink's Favourite Shot
This was my first time shooting inside the water. First time navigating a busy line-up with a camera and fins strapped to my feet. We shot until the sunset and out of the 3000 photos I snapped on burst mode, this one turned out to be my favourite of them all. It still holds a special place in my heart, since this was at a time when I was shooting and surfing every day.
Personal Message
"Be nice. We're all here for the same reason, let's respect each other and have fun together. There will always be more waves on the horizon"
Dario's Equipment List
Camera & Lenses
Dario is a Fujifilm Shooter! He owns the X-H2 and his favourite lens to go along with it is the 100-400mm when it comes to shooting from land.
Dario's Future Plans
Travel more, shoot more surf and lifestyle imagery and strive to become the happiest I can possibly be.
@darrenfeels
You can keep up with Dario's work on darrenfeels.com or follow his 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
Many surf stories and shots don't get shared enough, so please no matter how big your audience is we want to show off your surf photography!
Originating from Cornwall, Fin our founder is a keen traveler, photographer and surfer ticking off 20+ countries! He enjoys presenting the stories and work of talented individuals within the surfing community, alongside sharing everything he has learnt along the way.
