Behind the Lens: Thomas Meurot’s Award-Winning journey into Cold-Water Surfing in Iceland
French photographer Thomas Meurot has taken the world by storm with his Sony World Photography Award-winning project, kald Sòl (Cold Sun). This raw, black-and-white exploration of cold-water surfing in Iceland captures the essence of adventure, resilience, and the untamed beauty of nature.Meurot’s journey to the award was as unexpected as it was thrilling. While cycling through Scandinavia with his girlfriend, he received a call that would change his life. “I was just so excited when I found out, especially as I didn’t remember entering. It was such an intense moment. It was incredible,” he recalls. The award, in the Sports category, recognized his stunning work from Kald Sòl, a project that began as a documentary film and evolved into a photographic masterpiece.
In January 2023, Meurot embarked on a two-week expedition to Iceland with a group of mainly non-professional surfers. braving sub-zero temperatures, they chased waves in one of the most unforgiving environments on Earth. His black-and-white photographs from this trip are a testament to the raw, rugged beauty of Iceland and the passion of those who dare to surf its icy waters.
The Genesis of a Photographer
Table of Contents
- Chasing Waves in Iceland: A Photographer’s Journey into Cold-Water Surfing
Meurot’s love for photography began in childhood.”I really started photography when I was young, maybe around 8 or 10 years old.My parents would buy me disposable cameras when I went on holiday or on school trips,” he shares. His passion deepened during a move to Australia, where he discovered the work of surf photographer Chris Burkard. Inspired, Meurot began his journey into professional photography, starting with a Sony A6000 camera sold to him by a friend in 2017.
The Making of Kald Sòl
Kald Sòl started as a documentary film, now available on Amazon Prime. The project follows a group of friends who formed a cold-water surfing association. Meurot was invited to join their Icelandic expedition, where he captured the essence of their daring adventure. His photographs not only showcase the physical challenges of cold-water surfing but also the camaraderie and spirit of the surfers.
Key Highlights of Kald Sòl
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Location | Iceland |
| Theme | Cold-water surfing in sub-zero temperatures |
| Photography Style | Black-and-white, raw, and rugged |
| Award | Sony World Photography Awards (Sports category) |
| Inspiration | Chris Burkard’s surf photography |
A Call to Adventure
meurot’s work is a reminder of the beauty that lies in pushing boundaries. His photographs invite viewers to experience the thrill of cold-water surfing and the awe-inspiring landscapes of Iceland. For those inspired by his journey, Kald Sòl is a must-watch documentary and a visual feast for the senses.
As Meurot continues to explore the world through his lens, one thing is clear: his passion for photography and adventure knows no bounds. Dive into the icy waters of Iceland with Kald Sòl and discover the magic that earned Thomas Meurot a place among the world’s most celebrated photographers.
Chasing Waves in Iceland: A Photographer’s Journey into Cold-Water Surfing
For photographer thomas, Iceland’s icy waters and unpredictable weather became the backdrop for an unforgettable adventure.in January 2023, he embarked on a two-week expedition to capture the raw beauty of cold-water surfing, blending his passion for photography with the thrill of extreme sports. The result? A stunning collection of black-and-white images that earned him recognition at the prestigious Sony World Photography Awards.
The Inspiration Behind the Expedition
thomas’s fascination with cold-water surfing began long before he set foot in Iceland. Growing up in Provence, near the French Alps, he developed a love for skiing before discovering surfing. Inspired by the work of renowned photographer Chris Burkard,known for his breathtaking images of cold-water adventures,Thomas knew he had to experience it firsthand.
“I’ve always wanted to surf in a cold country,” he shared.“Watching Chris Burkard and his work around cold-water surfing, I thought, ‘Wow, this is the best experience you can have.’”
The expedition wasn’t just about capturing professional surfers in action. Thomas wanted to tell a different story. “When you watch surf movies, especially in Iceland, it’s always professional surfers. So I told Thomas I really wanted to make a surfing movie,” he explained. The team included one professional surfer, Samuel Redon, and a group of non-professionals, creating a unique dynamic that highlighted the worldwide allure of surfing.
the Challenges of Cold-Water Surfing
Surfing in Iceland’s frigid waters is not for the faint of heart. The expedition faced numerous challenges, from unpredictable weather to technical hurdles.
“The hardest part in Iceland was not knowing what the weather would do,” Thomas recalled. “You can have a window of good weather, and then suddenly, it turns into a storm with snow. Driving through snowstorms was tough.”
For Thomas, the technical challenges were equally daunting.Just before the trip,he switched to the Sony A74,a camera he wasn’t entirely familiar with. “I missed a few shots at the start of the trip. Luckily, nothing too bad happened, but it stressed me out a little,” he admitted. Despite these obstacles,the team’s camaraderie and teamwork ensured the expedition’s success.
Why black and White?
Thomas’s decision to edit his photos in black and white was a purposeful choice to convey the essence of Iceland’s harsh surroundings.
“I decided to make some of my pictures black and white because even when it’s sunny in Iceland,you’re still really cold. The black and white edit helped convey that cold feeling. It reminded me of the chill in the air,” he explained.
The monochromatic images capture the stark beauty of Iceland’s landscapes, emphasizing the isolation and intensity of cold-water surfing.
A Surprise Win at the Sony World Photography Awards
Thomas’s journey didn’t end in Iceland. while cycling through Scandinavia with his girlfriend, he received an unexpected email from the Sony World Photography Awards, reminding him of his last-minute entry.
“I got a call later telling me I had won. I had wholly forgotten about it as I was cycling every day and taking in all these experiences,” he said. Winning in the Sports category was a moment of pure joy and validation for his work.
Lessons from the Expedition
For Thomas, the expedition was more than just a photography project—it was a transformative experience.
“It was just a really cool experience. I want to do more things like this. You really feel alive. It was just insane. I love the cold. I love the fact that you’re completely alone, facing the elements,” he reflected.
The trip reinforced his passion for cold-water surfing and the unique challenges it presents. “It’s freezing cold, but that passion keeps you out ther. Even when you’re cold, you still want to stay outside, film for the guys, and surf as well,” he added.
Key Takeaways from the Expedition
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Location | Iceland, January 2023 |
| Team | One professional surfer (Samuel Redon) and non-professionals |
| Challenges | Unpredictable weather, snowstorms, adapting to a new camera (Sony A74) |
| Photography Style | Black and white to convey the cold, stark beauty of iceland |
| Achievement | Winner in the Sports category at the Sony World Photography Awards |
Looking Ahead
Thomas’s Icelandic adventure has left him eager to explore more extreme environments and push the boundaries of his craft. his work serves as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the ability to find beauty in the most challenging conditions.
For those inspired by his journey, thomas’s story is a reminder that sometiems, the most rewarding experiences come from stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing the unknown.
Explore more about cold-water surfing and Thomas’s work here.The Art of Surfing and Photography: A Dance of Patience and Perspective
In the land of fire and ice, where the sun barely sets and the horizon glows with ethereal light, Iceland’s rugged beauty becomes a canvas for both surfers and photographers.The interplay of texture and scale in this Nordic paradise offers a unique perspective on two seemingly different arts: surfing and photography.
Capturing Iceland’s Essence: Texture Over Color
During the summer months,Iceland’s landscape is bathed in a perpetual sunrise,painting the skies with stunning hues. Yet, for one photographer, the focus was not on the vibrant colors but on the raw texture of the land.“You can see the texture in the mountains, the waves, and the surfers,” they explain. This approach shifts the narrative from the picturesque to the tactile, inviting viewers to feel the ruggedness of Iceland’s terrain.
The Parallels Between Surfing and Photography
At first glance,surfing and photography appear worlds apart. Though, both arts share a common thread: the pursuit of the perfect moment. “they are two very different arts, but some surfers, when they ride their boards, create true art.They draw lines on the waves,” the photographer notes. This connection is further emphasized by the trust required between surfer and photographer. “When you’re shooting in the water, you really need to trust each other.”
The photographer’s style leans toward showcasing the vastness of the landscape, with the surfer playing a supporting role. “I like to show a lot of the landscape and only a small portion of the surfer to emphasize the scale.” This technique not only highlights the grandeur of nature but also underscores the surfer’s harmony with their environment.Patience is another shared virtue. In surfing, waiting for the right wave is crucial. Similarly,photography demands waiting for the perfect shot.“It’s the same with photography—you have to wait for the right moment to capture the shot,” the photographer observes.
Life Lessons from the Waves
beyond the artistry, surfing offers profound life lessons. “it teaches you to be humble. Mostly with the ocean,” the photographer reflects. However,they express concern about the current state of surf culture. “I don’t really like the vibe of surf culture nowadays.ThereS too much trouble. Too much selfishness with people saying ’this is my wave!’”
In contrast, the cold water surfing association they belong to embodies a more communal spirit. “We don’t care about finding ‘the perfect wave,’ we just want to have fun.” this ethos of sharing and humility serves as a reminder that the joy of surfing lies not in competition but in connection—with the ocean, with others, and with oneself.
Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Surfing | Photography |
|————————–|————————————–|————————————–|
| Core Principle | Drawing lines on waves | Capturing the perfect moment |
| Essential Virtue | Patience in waiting for the right wave | Patience in waiting for the right shot |
| Focus | Harmony with the ocean | Emphasizing scale and landscape |
| Life Lesson | Humility and sharing | Trust and collaboration |
Final Thoughts
The intersection of surfing and photography in Iceland’s dramatic landscape reveals a shared appreciation for patience, trust, and the beauty of imperfection. Whether riding a wave or framing a shot,both arts remind us to embrace the moment and find joy in the process.
For those inspired to explore Iceland’s waves or capture its textures, the journey begins with a single step—or paddle. Dive into the world of cold water surfing or pick up a camera and let the landscape guide your lens. The perfect wave, or shot, is waiting.
Of perfection in the face of ephemerality and the ability to pause and appreciate fleeting moments. Here’s how these two disciplines mirror each other in Iceland’s unique setting:
- Patience and Timing: Both surfers and photographers must possess patience and impeccable timing. Surfers wait for the perfect wave, while photographers anticipate the ideal composition or lighting. The unpredictable nature of Iceland’s weather and light adds an extra layer of challenge, much like the ocean’s fickle nature.
- Embracing Change: Both arts require adaptability. Surfers must continually adjust their positioning and strategy based on the shifting tides, currents, and wave patterns. Similarly, photographers must quickly adapt to changing light conditions, weather, and subject movements.
- Perspective and Framing: Surfers and photographers alike must consider their perspective and frame. Surfers choose their takeoff spot and trajectory to maximize their ride, while photographers frame their shots to emphasize their intended subject and enhance storytelling.
- The Pursuit of Perfection: Both surfers and photographers strive for perfection in their respective crafts. While perfection might be elusive – trying to capture the perfect wave or photograph – the pursuit itself drives creativity and fuels personal growth.
- the Ephemeral Nature of Art: Both arts deal with fleeting moments. A wave is gone in a matter of seconds, as is the perfect lighting or subject placement in photography. This transience adds a sense of urgency and importance to capturing these moments, making each accomplished outcome all the more rewarding.
In this icelandic dance of patience and perspective, surfers and photographers find common ground, each seeking to express the raw, unfiltered beauty of the land in their unique ways.The perpetual daylight and dramatic landscapes provide an ideal backdrop for these artists to interpret, innovate, and inspire.
