Derw Fineron 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 Derw Fineron, passionate surf photographer originating from New Zealand now shooting in Ireland.
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.
Derw Fineron Surf Photographer Gallery
What Did Your Childhood Look Like?
Growing up in NZ was a mix of mountains and the sea. We were encouraged to try anything that came our way and that led me to experience many different things as a kid.
Rock climbing, skating, snowboarding and surfing. We had a television in the house at one point but the old man had told us that it only played VHS, by the time we were older and more curious it had gone.
So whatever the weather, we were outside.
What Came First, Surfing or Photography?
I would say photography came first, but it wasn't surf photography. Back then I would shoot anything and everything. Skating, rock climbing, anything.
How Did You Get Into Surf Photography?
I had spent a long time in the digital realm shooting rock climbing and other sports but something about digital just didn't do it for me.
I also think that I couldn't keep up with the pace that digital was changing. I had always loved 35mm film, my mum was a photographer/filmmaker and had showed me how to use film cameras as a kid.
I thought to myself how fun it would be to shoot with film in the water. I was cruising around the north of Scotland surfing at the time and with its many mini slabs and a Nikon's V, I began getting inspired on days when it was too small to surf.
I wanted to be able to use more focus lengths in the water and so I dove into the world of housings and after a lot of research I finally had one in my hand ( Thanks Matt at Salty Surf Housings). I began shooting empty waves, most of them weren't waves anyone would surf but they were perfect to shoot, almost dry reef's throwing strange shapes.
Where Do You Normally Shoot?
At the moment, Ireland's west coast. I'm based near to Mullaghmore and Bundoran.
Where Do You Shoot? Water or Land?
Water, I'm a bit of a fish so I really enjoy swimming. I enjoy the challenge of battling the rips to be where I want to be (most of the time).
What Makes The Perfect Image?
I think this is different for every single person. For me I love black and white, I love the stark contrast between the white and the blacks. Mind surf-able empties, unique shapes and/or surfers. Nothing is perfect, thats the beauty of creativity.
How Did You Become So Involved In The Surf Scene?
I have surfed on and off since I was 12, when I came to Europe I was attracted to the places that were less known, usually cold and almost no-one around.
I'm a bit of a nomad so I've kind of just followed the waves that inspire me to surf and photograph and that led me to where I am, amongst a pretty unique surf culture.
Do You Have A Favourite Photographer That Has Inspired You?
Mickey Smith's work was where my attraction to the mystique of the North Atlantic came from, his work from those early days in Ireland was the main reason I wanted to explore this part of the world for myself.
Other film photographers such as Titus Haug and Jordan Godley have been inspiring me since I put down the digital camera and picked up film again but I think my main inspiration comes from friends, both photographers and surfers/bodyboarders.
Thomas Horig, Gary McCall, Joao Tudella, Megan Gayda, Conor Flanagan and Clem McInerney and of course those surfers/bodyboarders that continue to throw themselves over the ledge for nothing but the pure love they have for what they do.
What's Your Biggest Challenge To Overcome When Shooting?
Close out sets, rips and of course the never ending challenge if trying to stay warm!
Derw's Favourite Shot
Personal Message From Derw
"Do what you enjoy and do it often".
Derw's Equipment List
Camera & Lenses
Nikonos V, Nikon F100 with various lenses from fish eye's to 85mm in the water.
Derw's Future Plans
Shoot more, I'd like to shoot some snow, snowboarding is another passion of mine so I'd like to take some rolls to the mountains.
@derwfineron
You can keep up to date with Derw's work through his website derwfineron.com and 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.
