Fifteen Amazing Images From South Africa

Luke Gartside

7 years ago

Surrounded by the ocean on three sides and drenched with swell, there are waves of every imaginable type on offer in South Africa.

The density of truly world class set-ups, richness of culture, landscape and wildlife has made it a feature of every surfers bucket list. The jewel in the crown is of course, J-Bay, however the breaks Durban, Cape Town and of course the big wave spot Dungeons are all world famous for a reason.

From legendary chargers like Pete Mel and Twiggy, through alternative craft pioneer Derek Hynd, to World Champion contender Jordy Smith, SA has produced a huge spectrum of surfing talent to match its variety of waves. In addition to these talents, the nation has also churned out a whole host of top level lensmen, including Cape Town based Greg Chapman.

We asked Greg to show us some of his favourite images from his motherland and tell us a little more about himself and the joys of shooting in South Africa. Here’s what he came back with:

“I am a photographer from Cape Town, South Africa who specialises in surf photography. I started while still in school with a basic film camera as living opposite a surfing break I thought it might be something of interest to capture.

“I got my first DSLR in 2008 and since have had a number of images published locally and internationally. I first tried my hand at water photography circa 2012 and invested in a decent custom housing two years later.

“I mainly shoot around Cape Town where I live and up in Jeffreys Bay, which is just the most incredible wave when it’s on. While J-Bay is the most perfect right hand point break, Cape Town has got more than its fair share of epic beach breaks, reefs and big wave spots. The only down side is the ice cold water and hungry sharks

“The South African surf community are relatively small and connected. I does not matter if you are a seasoned competitor, a weekend warrior or up-and-coming grom, you will fit in somewhere and get your stoke.

“I love what I do because it’s challenging, keeps me outdoors and is just way too much fun.”