Ever wonder how photographers capture those perfect, empty, offshore waves when your local is blown out by 10 a.m.? What if you could learn how they really do it?

In this episode, surf photographer Rambo Estrada breaks down his process—from analyzing weather maps to reading wind 50km out at sea. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, aspiring surf shooter, or just obsessed with clean waves, this episode shows you what it really takes to be in the right place at the right time.

• Discover how to read swell and wind maps like a seasoned photographer — and avoid getting skunked

• Learn how not chasing pros helped Rambo develop a timeless, respected style

• Get expert gear tips for surf photography — from camera bodies to lenses, port types, and shooting techniques

Hit play now and learn how to elevate your wave-chasing instincts and creative surf photography — straight from one of New Zealand’s best.

Key Points

• Optimal surf conditions for photography involve straight offshore waves and minimal wind interference.

• Rambo Estrada’s transition from making surf videos to professional surf photography was influenced by his mentor Corey Scott from New Zealand Surfing Magazine.

• Rambo Estrada emphasizes the importance of patience in surf photography, especially in New Zealand where wave windows are small.

• Rambo Estrada recommends investing in high-quality lenses over camera bodies for surf photography, highlighting the importance of lens quality for image sharpness.

• Rambo Estrada utilizes aperture priority with auto ISO and a minimum shutter speed setting to manage exposure dynamically while shooting surf photography.

• For underwater photography, Rambo Estrada prefers using a housing with a glass front element treated with Rain-X to facilitate water drainage.

• Rambo Estrada advises reading camera manuals thoroughly to discover and utilize advanced features, such as auto ISO, to enhance photography techniques.

• Rambo Estrada uses Photo Mechanic for rapid culling of photos based on embedded JPEGs, allowing him to efficiently select the best shots from large batches.

You can see Rambo's work here:

https://www.estradasurfing.co.nz/

https://www.instagram.com/ramboestrada/?hl=en

https://rambo-estrada.com/

Surf Mastery website:

https://surfmastery.com/

For the passionate surfer—whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer—this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we’ll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we’re here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more—so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced.