Tag: surf

The Kraken – Huge surf on the North Shore of Kauai

Well…that was fun. Had a last minute private workshop client last Friday 3/31 and just so happened to coincide with a massive 25-30′ WNW swell. While waves that size are common in the winter, a swell of that size this time of year is relatively rarer. What this means is that the sun is in a completely different part of the sky than usual toward sunset. Knowing this we went down to a favorite spot but decided that it wasnt safe to go any farther so hung out on the rocks and shot a bunch of impact and abstracts. Being that the sun is far enough north the late afternoon light doesnt get blocked by Mt. Makana. This is what I was excited for. This particular capture was just after I pulled out my longer lens and looked up to see this monstrosity stand up headed toward the rocks. With the strong back-lighting I fired a few shots in hope of capturing the elusive beast…The Kraken.

Enjoy!
aF

Massive swell at sunset along north shore of Kaua'i.
“The Kraken” (unreleased) © 2017

Swell…from 4k feet above

Heading out on a Koke’e adventure our goal for the day was the Kilohana Overlook. As is too many times, when we arrived it was completely socked in. We enjoyed the hike and shot some detail work along the way. Arriving back at the car it was decided to head to the Kalalau Overlook for sunset since it’s always so epic from up there. Cresting the top we were greeted to an amazing view. This time with the addition of the large NW swell rolling in to the coast. From about 4,000 feet up you can see the swell lines way out to the horizon. So much energy being directed at our coasts and yet, from this height, looking so smooth and playful. The twilight light was perfect as I set out with my long lens to capture some detail and abstract work. This one image in particular I feel gives a good sense of that scene that day.

Enjoy!
aF

Incoming swell as seen from 4000 feet above sea level from the Kalalau Overlsook.
“Swell” (unreleased)

New Release! Wai’oli By Moonlight + Split Decision

We are very excited to release 2 new images from the archives!

“Wai’oli By Moonlight”

Limited Edition of 150.
Artist Proof of 15.

This was taken at the end of a very long, productive afternoon/evening of shooting. It started with a planned shoot at Ke’e Beach for low tide at sunset to capture reflections of the Na Pali Coast. As the sun eventually set the full moon rose and I captured “Equilibrium”. And then stayed as day turned to night. Eventually packing up and heading back toward home (Princeville) I came through Hanalei and the church with the moonlight was awesome. Even being exhausted and hungry I knew I needed to pull over and shoot more. After a number of experiments I settled on this composition taken from across the street standing on top of my car. Well worth the extra hunger.

hanalei, kauai, hawaii, moonlight, church, waioli, palm tree, stars, nightscape
Waioli By Moonlight : Prints Available

“Split Decision”

Limited Edition of 100.
Artist Proof of 10.

Taken May 2013. Spending waaay too much time at Ke’e Beach trying to catch waves this was just another day on the rocks. With the splashes not aligning I turned to the incoming waves and caught this perfect moment at sunset.

feinberg, kauai, hawaii, wave, surf, sunset, seascape, barrel, surfing
Split Decision : Prints Available

King’s Cauldron

 
Back in mid February I had the opportunity to work privately with a client on a workshop this afternoon.  With the surf being up to significant levels, 15’+, I knew that my usual go to spot would be a bit more challenging than usual.  After shooting some waterfalls we made it down to the coast and the waves were POUNDING.  The whole area is a very dangerous spot and normally I would not send people down here on their own in conditions like this.  Having a great understanding of the area and having a plan in case things get dicey is important.  As we watched the surf hit on to King’s Bath there was an area to stand and be safe yet able to scurry away if I thought we needed to retreat.  The amount of spray was incredible and therefore challenging to shoot in for sure.  After I had set up the client I decided I should join the fun.  As we watched, and occasionally ran away, the sun hit this hole right above Mt. Makana and the whole scene became this surreal cauldron of sea, spray and light.  I was able to get off just 2 series of photos before the sun passed behind the mountain for the night.  Quite the experience for both of us.
 
To see a slo-mo video please check out the link HERE
 
Much thanks all and be safe out there!
 
aF
 

Large surf crashes on the north shore of Kauai as the spray is backlit by the setting sun.
“King’s Cauldron” (unreleased)