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Early morning light at Nazaré. Photo: Mark Wengler
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This was the incredibly intense scene from the lighthouse as Maya Gabeira was carried up the beach unconscious. It was simply horrifying to watch. Photo: Mark Wengler
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Andrew Cotton. Photo: Mark Wengler
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Jet Skis in the back look small because it was shot approximately 150-200 meters over the ocean from the roof of the Nazaré Lighthouse. Photo: Mark Wengler
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This one went forever. Photo: Mark Wengler
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The massive bowl in effect at Nazaré. Photo: Mark Wengler
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Whitewater explosion. Photo: Mark Wengler
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Tough to tame these monsters, but the crew was doing it all morning. Photo: Mark Wengler
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At first, I did not want to share this picture, but I am so happy that Maya survived this very serious situation and is feeling well today. This picture really shows what Nazaré is all about–pure and raw ocean power! I decided to show the picture after all because if you want to surf Nazaré, you have to be very well prepared, both physically and mentally, for the worst case scenario, but even a pro big wave surfer like Maya can get in trouble at this terrifying place. Photo: Mark Wengler
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Andrew Cotton on a bomb. Photo: Mark Wengler
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An overview of the spot. Photo: Mark Wengler
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Pretty lucky that the Jet Ski can wait for you almost in the impact zone and not have the constant fear of being crushed. Such is the upside to a slow breaking wave. Photo: Mark Wengler
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You DO NOT want to be in this "white water zone." The foam is 2-3 meters deep, sometimes much bigger and probably very hard to swim and breathe in. Very dangerous! Photo: Mark Wengler
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Where the board ended up. Photo: Mark Wengler
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Welcome to Nazaré. Photo: Mark Wengler
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Nazaré town during sunset. Such a magical place. Photo: Mark Wengler
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From the lighthouse. Photo: Mark Wengler
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Charging! Photo: Mark Wengler
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Nice little rainbow in the background. Photo: Mark Wengler
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A little perspective. Photo: Mark Wengler
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Safe and sound on the shoulder. Photo: Mark Wengler
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Tool of the trade. Photo: Mark Wengler
I shot these pictures during a recent trip to Nazaré, Portugal, and I came home yesterday evening to a total chaos in Denmark. The same low which had created the huge swell in Portugal hit Denmark hard and was the worst hurricane in Denmark history.
In Portugal, I met Garrett McNamara and we hooked up for a early morning shoot in Nazaré. After that morning shoot, I was allowed to shoot and follow him and his fantastic crew for five days. It’s a very interesting and positive experience which gave me a view into a world of top professional athletes.
I have the greatest respect for Mr. McNamara not only because of his unique surfing skills but also because of his very pleasant personality. He always finds time to talk with old ladies as well as little kids. Such a humble person with a twist of greatness. During this week I spent with the McNamara crew, I was also very privileged to meet his lovely wife Nicole, Hugo Vao and Andrew Cotton plus the rest of this amazing group.
I have to go back to Nazaré when the next serious low hits this rustic and raw coast. To me, this place is pure magic, and when it’s on fire, I can’t think of any other place I’d rather be with my camera.
Check out more of Mark’s work on his Facebook page.
