mikecoots_inertia_selects_dane-15
This is Dane Gudauskas at small Pipe. Although this image looks like its been "photoshopped," it has not. A gorgeous sunset balanced with a single1200WS Profoto strobe popped at full power. I enclose the flash in contractor bags, and my assistant wears it in a backpack. If the backpack strap breaks (the flash setup is almost 50lbs), the contractor bag will hopefully prevent any electrical shock as the assistant often is wading in the shoreline to get the light source as close to the subject as possible. A bit dangerous in a way. You have one shot at full power, so it's exciting to anticipate the action and see what transcribes on the LCD after the shot is taken. 1/200@f11 ISO 400. Shot with the 70-200. Photo: Mike Coots
I was fortunate to be raised on the white sand beaches of Kaua’i. Shortly after high school, I lost my leg to a large Tiger Shark. It was a blessing, though, as it brought me to photography, which I learned during my downtime when I was injured. I love everything about capturing images. Finding the light, building relationships, and seeking out the unordinary is what I base my passions on. In my spare time, I still surf (now with a prosthetic leg) and am active in shark conservation.
See more of Mike’s work on his website and his Instagram: @mikecoots