The paddle out is different with a camera instead of a surfboard. Even the best waterproof phone cases for surf and underwater photography. We’ve also covered a lot of other topics in surf photography like the best lenses for surf photography, both from land and in the water, the best drones, best water housings, and the other bits and bobs of surf photography gear necessary for nailing that perfect barrel shot that surfers salivate over. Here, we take a look at the cameras that they use, as well as some more approachable options for getting your feet wet and mid-level options for those who don’t want to break the bank, but are interested in a camera that offers aspects of higher-level photography, like a full-frame sensor. They were gracious enough to share what equipment they use as professionals, and, more importantly, what equipment they recommend for those of us (myself included) trying to get into the surf photography game. I hit up Brent Bielmann, Todd Glaser, Morgan Maassen, and Zak Noyle, four of the world’s best-regarded professional surf photographers, to learn a bit more about what they do.

I’ll be honest I’m no expert on surf photography, but I know a couple of people who are.

Since the gear to deal with such problems is highly specialized, it’s worth getting some advice before hopping in the deep end. It can affect your camera (break it) and, of course, alter the way one deals with light. Surf photography is still just photography, but water can complicate things.

World best camera 2015