bourez
Michel Bourez, Tahiti: This was my first time inTahiti, and I purposely wanted to avoid the circus. I went months before the comp, and I was lucky enough to stay with the Bourez family. Their hospitality was incredible. Domenic Mosqueira was already in the water. He's a local and super talented humble photographer (you can see him in the top right) which is always nice to come across in the water. As far as some of the shots that have come out of this place over the last few years, it won't even rate a mention, but for me, this was the first wave I ever shot at this location. I am pretty sure my smile was as wide as Michel's when I saw the the results. I spent the next ten days with the locals and I must say I have the utmost respect for how they go about their surfing and lives – inspirational. Photo: Russell Ord
Have you ever frowned before, during or after getting barreled? If so, you’re most likely in the minority. Actually, not smiling, especially frowning, is a mannerism directly antithetical to surfing in general. Who doesn’t smile while surfing? Seriously, that should be prohibited. It’s just about the most fun you can have on planet earth, after all.
Everyone from Kelly Slater to Alana Blanchard to Sunny Garcia to Steph Gilmore can be found here flashing their pearly whites. Whether they’re exiting a barrel or simply paddling out, they’re all outwardly enjoying their session, which is what it’s all about. We hope these make you smile too.