Tim Wendrich 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 Tim Wendrich surf photographer originating from Germany. Tim now shoots across the globe capturing spectacular shots of surfers and even captured some Orca's!
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.
Tim Wendrich Surf Photographer Gallery
What Did Your Childhood Look Like?
I grew up in northern Germany and my parents always tell stories of me hating the bathtub, showers or any other contact with water.
But at the age of 6, my 3 years older sister used to be in a swimming team. So, I wanted to do the same and my hate for water started to turn into a deep obsession. At the age of 8 I took my first windsurfing classes during summer holidays and suddenly, windsurfing became my no. 1 priority in life for the next 10 to 12 years.
So, besides school, I almost spend my entire Childhood either swimming or windsurfing ... until parties overtook a little around the age of 20!
What Came First, Surfing or Photography?
Obviously it was surfing as I couldn't even operate a camera when I made contact with surfing the first time. But it definitely came separately. When I was studying graphic design I worked 2 different jobs at night. One was a helping hand at a rental photostudio. I did mostly set building during the night for the next days photoproductions.
Long story short, I was broke and some photographers asked me if I would be interested in working for them as a photo assistant, I turned my back on graphic design as a 6 year journey of flying around the world a photo assistant began.
During that time I obviously couldn't bring windsurfing equipment on those working trips, so I decided to get more and more into simple surfing. You can find a board and a wetsuit everywhere for the down days of shooting.
How Did You Get Into Surf Photography?
I think I started shooting on surf trips during my photo assistant time. I remember that I bought something like a plastic bag to protect my camera the first time I went into the ocean with it. It was horrible to shoot like this and I immediately decided to get away from the surfers and try to play a little bit with light and the element of water.
I was pretty stoked about the outcome of my very first attempt of shooting in water. But after that, it took me another couple of years to train and figure everything out, before I would consider myself a surf or water photographer.
But funny sidestory, at the beginning of this year 2023, I actually sold the very first print of my very first waterphoto session more than 12 years ago. That made me a little nostalgic!
Where Do You Normally Shoot?
I used to shoot a lot in Southern Europe, but now I find more interest in capturing the raw beauty of cold areas in the north. I don't really like too many people around me and always try to avoid crowds, to not have too much humanity in my shots!
For me it's not always about the best wave or the best surfer, it's more the setting, the surrounding and the overall look and feel what makes a beautiful picture.
Where Do You Shoot? Water or Land?
Both. I started shooting more in water and love the physical challenge and everything about it. But what I think is funny is what used to be unlimited creative playground for me, nowadays, sometimes feels very limited.
Especially in perspectives. So, sometimes I walk around the spot and really enjoy to shoot whole sceneries, creative angles and the wide beauty of it all.
What Makes The Perfect Image?
Imperfection!
How Did You Become So Involved In The Surf Scene?
Actually, it just happened naturally. But i think, at least a couple of years ago, it was Instagram combined with my inner motivation to travel alone and meet people on the way.
Do You Have A Favourite Photographer That Has Inspired You?
Honestly? Not in the way you might think of with this question. I try not to get too much involved in the portfolios of other photographers. But what really inspires me is the approach of others. I love how wildlife photographers do have a picture in their minds and wait for weeks in trees or in their tents to finally get it.
I love how fashion photographers fight through their industry jungle and for their idea of what is looking great. I appreciate wedding photographers for spending most of their weekends with talking to grandfathers and uncles about new camera gear. I think I have great respect for everybody who makes a living with their camera...and I also think that I can learn from everybody.
So, probably it's fair to say that inspiration is everywhere and I just try protect my approach to shoot the way I see things.
What's Your Biggest Challenge To Overcome When Shooting?
I think it's finding time...I would say 80% of that job doesn't have to do anything with holding a camera in your hands.
Tim's Equipment List
Camera & Lenses
Tim uses his Nikon D850, Nikon and Sigma lenses from 16 mm to 600 mm.
Personal Message
Take a look at almost every skatepark on this planet, catch the vibe and bring it into our line-ups. I love how skaters respect others. No matter how good you are, when someone tries something for hours and finally lands it, everybody applauds and cheers for it.
First ollie or gnarliest trick the park has ever seen, it doesn't matter. I miss this a lot in the egomaniac world of surfing and by the way there is usually no such thing as localism. Everyone who behaves is welcome. That's probably the reason why I try to avoid famous spots and prefer surfing at the most remote places.
Tim's Future Plans
I would love to do another round trip in the cold (Norway, Sweden, Faröer) to catch either waves or shoot wildlife and landscapes through the seasons up there. I once went shooting Orcas and Humpbacks in Norway. That was for sure a live changing experience for me. I would love to do it again and include that aswell.
More of Tim's Thoughts
I am currently a little out of order due to family business but I promise that I'll be back for new trips and adventures... hopefully soon. As the world keeps on turning I am very grateful for everybody who still asks for going on a trip or doing this or that. Even after getting a 'no' for an answer for almost 2 years already. Very patient guys, love it. Same goes out for my friends from SRFACE Wetsuit, who still support me even though I hardly make it into the water more than 5 times a year at the moment.
The future is going to be wet and wild, I promise!
@timwendrichphoto
You can contact Tim on his Instagram plus view his website for more information.
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
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.
