Greg Ewing Photo Blog

New Blog Page

2011-01-05T13:49:00.000+02:00

I've migrated my blog over to a new page so click here to check it out or go to http://gregewingphoto.com/blog/

Wallpaper 13

2010-12-06T10:26:00.001+02:00

1680 x 1050
Click image to download

A Little Gold

2010-11-30T15:27:00.001+02:00

Summer in Durban can be pretty depressing but with a little patience and an eye on the charts you can still find a little gold... Click here to see my Summer Gallery on the Zigzag website.

Africa Project

2010-11-22T14:38:00.001+02:00

A spread of Davey Weare in the latest issue of Zigzag. Dave gets the shot with Jason Hearn while filming and shooting for the Africa Project on our last full destination, Reunion. A bit has been going on behind the scenes lately, Jason has been getting his stuff together and hopefully we will have some good news soon. Watch this space…

Where has the ART gone?

2010-11-15T17:35:00.001+02:00

Or is this what is driving it? My backup system has been growing. It started with a 500 GB LaCie, then I got a Rugged LaCie for trips, then another 500. Then after ordering my second TB the other day I just went woooh where is this going? I backup simply according to date of shoot. So when I was juggling data around to get the most out of what space I had, I could see how much was transferring from 2006 when I went digital. Then how it grew in 2007 and so on…

Back in our film days we would pride ourselves on achieving the shot. Getting the correct exposure, crop, framing… all done one of 36 frames. If I remember correctly film and developing used to cost about R120. Lets call it R3 a shot. My camera was busting out a very respectful (even by today’s standards) 7fps. On average I would shoot 3 rolls though if we were in Indo and it was cooooking we would do a lot more. So its easy see it cost a lot of money and therefore we were pretty selective.

Jump forward to the digital revolution. My first camera was the Canon EOS 1d Mk2n. I think I originally got it in December of 2005 but didn’t have a clue so it probably wasn’t until January that I was actually using it. I was totally blown away when I checked that I only had 30 odd GB backed up from that year (truth is I was a digital rookie and I probably lost a bit) Last year still on my Mk2 I shot 430GB… Now add to that equation that im shooting on a Mk 4 now with double the megapixels, it’s only going to get silly…

Where am I going with all this? Clearly im shooting a lot more now. Digital simply gives you that option, an almost unlimited one depending on how you look at it. In the past I would shoot 100 frames, im now shooting 500. Even when shooting from the water where you were limited to one roll I now shoot 150 frames. In the past we had to get everything 100% down to the last detail like correct film (and that was just for slight colour difference). Now we have AWB and can change our ISO in a second. Yes a good RAW is essential but so much comes down to retouching these days that it is an art in itself

So like I said before we used to pride ourselves on getting the shot on film with the selectiveness that we shot. That was the ART. Take a step back, look at surf photography these days, the standard is unbelievable. Guys are pushing it, somehow finding new angles, hand holding in 10ft barrels… Where is the ART now or how is it defined? Is it solely defined on the final image, regardless of what you did or how much you shot to get it? Is digital and its’ usability and accessibility what are driving the Art today over the exact skill and knowledge of the past? Just something to think about.

Award

2010-11-08T15:05:00.003+02:00

For those of you who know Will Bendix (Editor of Zigzag) you'll know he can be a hard man to get hold of. Editors always have a lot on their plates, either putting a mag together or dealing with way too much admin. I had actually been trying to get hold of him for a few days but when I heard my phone ringing at 10.15 pm and saw his name blinking back, I was a bit unsure as firstly I knew the surf was going to be pretty dismal the next day and secondly, it's not like him to make social calls or just phone to chat about our next adventure at that time of the evening. So when an excited Will Bendix answers back, quite loud into the phone as it sounded like he was in a club, I knew something was up. Hey Greg, Well done bro! You and AVG just won a cool award. You guys got Best Visuals for the Africa Project at the Media 24, Excellence Awards! Nice trophy, mounted certificate, really sweet! Oh and a little cash as well…

I popped round the office the next day to say hi to the boys and pick up the trophy. Apparently I owe all the guys expensive international beers or something, fair enough guys haha. But from Alan and I, we are really stoked and big thanks to Zigzag and Media 24!

Wallpaper 12

2010-11-02T14:02:00.001+02:00

1680 x 1050
Click image to download

Boardriders TV

2010-10-20T13:03:00.001+02:00

The guys at Boardriders TV recently did an episode on Surf Photography. They interviewed the legendary Chris Van Lennep, Luke Pattereson and myself. It was a bit strange being interview, you really just hope they edit it well and you dont sound to stupid ha ha. But all came out well and really stoke to be part of it. Follow the link to You Tube
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8_bCWudUsU

The Bush

2010-10-18T12:05:00.001+02:00

In this crazy world we find ourselves, it’s hard for it not to build up sometimes. We get tired, a little stressed, you know the usual… For me going for a run is a good way to keep on top of it. Going for a surf, perfect! I think we surfed so much when we were younger, that we were so on top of it, so chilled that there was no stress at all! Ha ha. In our mellow mind frames we called it ‘Salt Water therapy’ and it was the answer to all life’s hassles.

Growing up in Cape Town I never really knew too much about the bush, well the outdoor kind that is. Kruger Park was over a 20 hour drive away and it wasn’t until I moved up to Durban that I was introduced to wildlife and in particular wildlife photography. I was hooked from the moment I drove into my first park and besides our annual family trips ive been fortunate enough to visit and document a few parks around the country on editorial assignments.

But back to my de-stressing thing. I find going into the bush or spending time in a park an amazing way to unwind. I don’t think about too much else besides, sightings, the golden hour, appreciating the beautiful outdoors and time spent with those around me. Everything else is a few hours away from my mind. So if Salt Water therapy were a great way to describe going for a surf and unwinding, what would be a good one for going to the bush? Just something to think about.

Anyways here are a few images from a trip last week. My first Cheetah sighting, pretty memorable!

2010 Gallery

2010-10-15T15:08:00.000+02:00

Go check the Zigzag site for a little 2010 Gallery of images that didn't quite make the mag but worth a view.

Goldfish Shoot

2010-10-05T15:05:00.002+02:00

A few shots from a recent shoot with the guys from Goldfish.

Much travelling and very little Blogging…

2010-09-30T11:52:00.001+02:00

Well it’s been a crazy last month to say the least. Clare and I were married on the 1st September (spring day) at the most beautiful and almost surreal Tuscan Villa in Italy joined my our family and close friends. Wow, what an amazing day! Thank you so much to all of you for making the effort, it makes us both feel so loved.

From Siena it was off to the very romantic but after a glass of wine, very confusing, Venice. Clare and I spent the next 3 weeks catching taxis, planes, trains and a LOT of walking around Europe. We spent time in Paris, Barcelona, Lisbon and Rome and also went to visit our good friends Bridge and Dave in Ibiza.

A highlight for sure, though a bit nerve racking at times (check the scooter) was our day trip to Formentera. Do your self a favour, Google it. I’ve been fortunate enough to have visited some beautiful islands and beaches but this place is crazy! Its not tropical, palm tree beautiful but has the clearest, turquoise water ive ever seen. When I retire and sail around the world, im stopping there for sure!

So it’s kind of back to reality now. Clare is starting her new Job and I have a few projects to work on but I will say one thing. It’s awesome travelling, seeing and experiencing new things but there is nothing quite like home!

Surfer X

2010-08-15T19:18:00.001+02:00

A few images in B/W from todays Fox SurferX

Surfer's Path Folio

2010-08-12T21:47:00.001+02:00

The guys at Surfer's Path approached me a few months ago to do a photographer profile on my work, of course i jumped at the chance. So together with what i had been submitting to them over the last year or so and some recent material they compiled a pretty cool piece. Today i finally got to see it in print, really stoked and proud so if you see the July/August issue at a surf store or CNA, check it out.

Farmer's Weekly

2010-08-10T15:07:00.002+02:00

All those Kruger trips and wildlife stock images paying off with the cover of the latest Farmer's Weekly...

Beautiful locations

2010-08-06T09:03:00.002+02:00

Click here to check a little slideshow from our recent Reunion trip on the Zigzag website. It's a little teaser with some leftover shots from our stay but do yourself a favor and go buy the latest Zigzag where you will find the feature article. Also featured in that issue is the Morocco trip i did earlier this year. Been very blessed to have traveled to these beautiful locations and really stoked with the images, have a look and hopefully enjoy!

Cover of Latest Zigzag

2010-08-02T07:26:00.000+02:00

Cover of the latest Zigzag with Dave Weare from our recent trip to Reunion. One of those shots that just got that feeling when i shot it and checked it on the screen. St leu is a great place to shoot and once we had seen our angles i was just waiting and hoping we were going to get one of those afternoons with the clean goldern light. Dave's first cover in 9 years or something so we both super stoked!!!

July

2010-07-27T14:04:00.010+02:00

July has been a busy time with the Mr Price and the Billabong Pro straight after each other so blogging has taken a bit of a back seat, but I'm back. It was emotional stuff this year as Jordy Smith won both contests and in doing so becomes the first Saffa to win a WCT event and he goes to #1 in the world. We photographers spend a week shooting but it all comes down to one image. There was a little pushing and shoving as photographers tried to get the best claim shot as Jordy exited the water in J-Bay (ask Craig Kolesky). But I don’t think any of us quite expected the emotion we saw. It was an incredible moment in South African surfing and it won't easily be topped.

From J-Bay it was back to Durban to get the images out for editorial and start working on some new projects. Last week I met up with Rudy Palmboom for a Fox catalogue shoot. Rudy was in fine form in front of the camera busting out a few poses he has been working on and has even expanded his skills to location scouting. Thanks Rug!

Few more things on the cards, will keep you posted.

SA Surf Photographer of the Year

2010-07-07T14:26:00.002+02:00

Me accepting my award/canvas from the legend Chris Van Lennep at the South African Surfing awards last Sunday. I have to say I'm really stoked and honoured and a big thanks to everyone for the support over the years. Picture by Pablo Ponzone

Mr Price Pro Ballito

2010-07-02T16:22:00.000+02:00

I went to go check out the Mr Price Pro website as the contest started today. Was scrolling the galleries and came across this one taken by Kelly Cestari of a photo i took haha. It's been used as a Billboard outside the Lifestyle Center in Ballito and i guess it's a little reminder of just how good the waves were last year. Pretty Cool...

Canary Islands expose'

2010-06-27T11:56:00.004+02:00

Click here to go check the latest Sheriffs Lightbox on the Canary Islands.

You’ve done us proud!

2010-06-23T10:38:00.007+02:00

Yes we may have not made it through to the next round and in doing so South Africa becomes the first host nation not to advance to the round of 16 of a Soccer World Cup. BUT we need to see the bigger picture here. With South Africa ranked 83rd in the world not many people even gave us a hope of scoring a goal, let alone beating France, former Champions and currently ranked 9^th.

Ever since Tshabalala's phenomenal opening goal of the tournament against Mexico any negative perceptions were blown away and Bafana Bafana showed the world what they were made of.

So if there are still any sceptics and cynics for that matter out there, whatever… Bafana Bafana, you’ve done us proud!

Reunion Island

2010-06-07T19:18:00.002+02:00

A week into our trip now and we have definitely had our fair share of waves. The guys have had a nice taste of what Reunion has to offer, bummer they had to share it with all the locals… haha, but all good! The swell backed off a little today and after a session at St. Leu and a little lunch we headed just out side of town to a blowhole Jason and Dale had been to last time they were on the island. Pretty cool I must say and decided a little self portrait was in order.

I may not be into blogging everyday but Jason has so if you interested and want to see what we have been getting up to plus a few images go to The Africa Project Blog.

Counting myself lucky...

2010-06-02T17:00:00.001+02:00

Three days into our trip and really enjoying Reunion. WOW this island is beautiful with so much to offer! Felt a bit of a tourism sales pitch coming on so will hold off on that haha. But seriously, besides the surf which is looking promising for the rest of the trip, Reunion is an amazing place! Todays forecast was not looking to great so we decided last night that we would have a really early start and do the long winding drive above St Gille to a scenic lookout. None of us really knew what we were in store for but can honestly say we were all totally blown away and felt like we were on top of the world! There are times in life when you find yourself reflecting and you realize just how blessed we are...
Like i said, charts are looking good so will keep you posted.

Packing Bags...

2010-05-28T15:13:00.004+02:00

It's packing bags time again, giving the lenses a good clean and making sure the credit cards got a few Dollars or Euros' on it! Spent a couple days last week missioning up the West Coast with Jason Hearn and doing a little work on the Africa Project. The two of us couldn't stop talking about our next mission, which im keeping on the low for now but if you interested you will know soon enough. Keeping an eye on the swell charts and they looking good though I always have the opinion that we going, it's the right time of year and will get what we get. So holding thumbs, the crew is amped and will update in a few days.

Matt Bromley finding a solid right beachie on the West Coast last week.

Goldfish

2010-05-27T12:45:00.002+02:00

I popped in to see me mate Dave from Goldfish while i was down in Cape Town the other day. Really good catching up, we don't do it enough. Just so stoked how well they have done and deserve every bit it! Dave was like hold on a sec, disappeared into his office and came back with a CD. It's an alternate version of 'caught in the loop' from overseas and used one of my shots we did a while back as the cover. The shots worked well and got some good milage. Super stoked, digging it, thanks guys!

Google PucMan

2010-05-22T13:53:00.002+02:00

Something completely different... Go play Google PacMan, it's pretty cool!

Latest Zigzag Magazine

2010-05-10T09:28:00.001+02:00

Two spreads of mine from the latest issue of Zigzag that I'm digging... Issue is on sale so go out, buy it and support our local industry.

Photographer Profile

2010-05-06T13:17:00.000+02:00

Click here to check a small photographer profile of me on www.surfboardman.com

Heading South

2010-05-03T18:38:00.002+02:00

What a crazy week! It all started with a call from Jason Hearn, Sheriff have you seen the charts? Its going to be all time... I've booked my flight and Sean and i are coming to stay for the weekend... the rest is a blur of 4.30 starts, coffee, driving the coast, more coffee, big lines and fat barrels... It was Jason's second attempt at getting good swell for that section of the movie, so he is understandably stoked as am I to get a few keepers for the book. As usual a whole lot of blogging going on, so click here to follow the Africa Project Film with a run down of what we have been up to and then check the Zigzag site for galleries from the last weekends big swell.

Hurley Flo Pro

2010-04-16T13:03:00.000+02:00

Busy week

2010-04-13T16:58:00.001+02:00

It's been a busy last week of shooting, actually the last two weeks... Had to finish up the Quiksilver Pro Junior images and put the a disk together. Then had a SUP shoot which had been on hold as we waited for a clean morning and crisp light. Then shot some Floriding images at the Hurley Flo Pro over the weekend and then monday greeted us with EPIC conditions down the South Coast. Go to Zigzag to check the gallery and hopefully the next issue for some of the A-Grades.

100% BOER

2010-04-07T14:00:00.000+02:00

The new, the old, the current South Africa! Makes you think...

Quiksilver Pro Junior

2010-04-03T17:58:00.003+02:00

Been busy shooting the Quiksilver Pro Junior this Easter weekend down at North beach. Few daily galleries and slideshows as usual so if you are interested go check them out at the Quiksilver contest website and Zigzag Surfing Magazine site.

Moses Mabhida Stadium

2010-04-01T17:49:00.001+02:00

I was putting together some images for a job and realised i needed some generic stadium shots. So off I was the following morning at 5am to catch the sunrise and spent the next few hours shooting the stadium from all different angles and have to say I was actually blown away. The Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban is seriously impressive and though I had seen it from far and driven past I had to actually walk around it and see it up close to really appreciate it. So weather you are embracing the whole Soccer World Cup or not do your self a favour and spend 30 minutes of your day and go check out the stadium in your town.

Zululand

2010-03-24T11:27:00.004+02:00

Click here to check out my latest slideshow on the Zigzag website.

Mk 4 at work

2010-03-16T09:52:00.005+02:00

There were some awesome waves around Durban and up the coast last week and into the weekend. I missioned with the Redman's and met up with a couple of other guys along the way. It was a great opportunity to test out the MK 4 in varying conditions from front to back lit, perfectly crisp clean air to a little hazy and glad to say the camera performs! I’m still blown away by 16mp at 10fps… A noticeable difference is the AF. I downloaded a 50-page manual that just goes through the key custom function associated with the AF. It’s takes a little fine tuning but once you get the right combination it’s spot on every time.

We got one or two real A-Grades that we will hold for the mag but click here for a little slideshow of the leftover images.

Zigzag Cover

2010-03-15T13:30:00.003+02:00

Cover of the the latest Zigzag, stoked!!! The shot is of Antonio Bortoletto surfing Los Lobos in the Canary Island. To go with the cover is the article 'Surfing on the Moon' which documents our stay last November on the crazy lunar islands.

I have!

2010-03-09T14:47:00.004+02:00

My last blog was about my want list and i will admit it is big but I’m glad to say it just got a little smaller as UPS just delivered 1x Canon EOS 1d Mk4! This one is no gimmick though pumping out 16mp at 10fps… yes please!!! Plus some added features im sure to be blogging about soon like HD Video and 60 fps. Battery charging...

I want!

2010-03-04T15:20:00.002+02:00

Ok, being a photographer and just your normal guy there are a lot of things on my want list, some i need and will probably help me take better images, some not... This is one of those 'nots' but being a big Canon supporter i've just got to have the coolest thermo flask around haha

Wallpaper 11

2010-02-26T16:02:00.002+02:00

1680 x 1050

1024 x 769

Click the image to download

New Port

2010-02-17T13:47:00.001+02:00

What better way to test out my new long lens port for my water housing than on my super eager, will do anything to please sidekick, Bella haha. The weather has been extremely hot and humid lately, surf is flat and not that I needed an excuse to swim but more a good opportunity to be productive and test gear between trips and shoots. Once you figure out the whole dry port system which can be a headache it’s just a matter of getting your focus spot on and you can get some great results. Looking forward to taking it out for a proper run.

Hansgrohe Lifesaving Series

2010-02-09T11:16:00.002+02:00

One of the things I really enjoy about my job is getting to shoot different sports. We all easily fall into our comfort zones of regularity so when asked to shoot the Hansgrohe Masters of Water Lifesaving Series last weekend at North Beach, Durban I was amped for the challenge. Maybe not blessed with great light but there was plenty of action and new angles to capture. Below Mandi Maritz just edges out a full stretching Aimee Faulmann to take the womans flags title.

Checking in...

2010-01-19T22:49:00.002+02:00

Just checking in from Morocco. Been here a couple of days now and what an amazing place! Surf wise this place picks up loads of swell and it's just a matter of knowing your winds and tides and where to go. We are in great hands here with our guide Denny and have made the most of what we have been dealt. But before I go on too much there has been a lot of blogging going on with writing talent far beyond mine so if you are interested go to Zigzag for galleries and The Africa Project for daily updates.

The Africa Project

2010-01-12T08:34:00.007+02:00

The Africa Project is the brainchild of my good friend Jason Hearn. Jason is an unbelievably talented filmmaker and one of the few guys I know that is just as passionate, if not more about what he does than I am. I've been fortunate to team up with him on this project for some of the destinations. It started with Jason coming along on my Dakar trip last January with Ricky Basnett and Royden Bryson for Zigzag This basically kicked off the Africa Project and gave it the momentum it was needing. Jason then went up the West Coast of South Africa before coming to Durban where I joined him on the South Coast. With a host of other destinations on the cards and an impressive list of South Africa's top surfers joining him, Jason has already ticked off Namibia and the big wave scene in Cape Town and after a lot of planning we leave tomorrow for Morocco. For galleries, updates and more info on the project click here.

Goodwave 2010

2010-01-05T09:31:00.006+02:00

A new year and another waiting period starts for the Quiksilver Goodwave. The guys decided to use an image of mine for their campaign of Dan Redman shot last year in an all time New Pier barrel. Must have been a hard call not to run the contest but thats the way it goes and lets hope the guys all get a shot at that R65000 winners cheque this year. Check the site for any updates here

Wallpaper 10

2009-12-16T18:27:00.008+02:00

1680 X 1050

1024 X 768
Click the image to download.

How not to do 50 Miler

2009-12-07T10:52:00.003+02:00

After deciding not to paddle this year to concentrate on other things, I knew it was inevitable that I would get roped into seconding. But fair enough, if I think about all the races I have done, everyone needing a second, I was happy to pay back. So Clare and I set out chasing our crew along the Umgeni back to Durban. Clare likes to shout out the lines when we are paddling but even more so from the sidelines haha. Maybe if a few of theses guys had listened they would have found themselves in a better situation...

The Kingfishers (part 1)

2009-11-26T11:19:00.004+02:00

Meet our resident kingfisher or at least one of them... Clare and I have been staying in the spare room while we fix up and paint our main bedroom. Now every morning from around 6am, probably earlier but on principal I am still asleep then, there is a bit of activity outside our window, in particular on the side gate. At first I thought it was just one kingfisher but when I looked closer I realized it was a male and a female and every morning they go out looking for bugs and slugs and that sort of thing. It’s amazing the size of some of the creatures they catch and by the quantity we are sure there is a hungry family near by. All this goes on while Mina our cat sits patiently watching their every move from the comfort of the bed, no doubt planning her great hunt... Now Mina is no stealthy leopard or any wild cat for that matter and her skills are best left to tormenting the numerous gecko’s found around our house and to my knowledge has just one bird kill to her name. That itself was less than successful as Bella her rather overpowering and younger sibling (the lab) had to intervene but that is another story all together and could tie in to part 2 of this story, Mina Strikes... Haha

On the moon

2009-11-17T10:53:00.003+02:00

Wow this is a crazy place! When you arrive in Lanzarote you feel as though you have landed on the moon. The most crazy, baron, volcanic landscapes ever. These scattered islands just off the cost off Morocco take the full brunt of the weather and have got a little glimpse of why they call it Europe's Hawaii. It picks up quite a bit of swell and there are some heavy spots around and once you get dialled in you are bound to score! We just returned from a few days on Fuarteventure and really recommend this place to any surfer. No heavy vibes like we expected, in fact the locals couldn’t have been more welcoming, flip they give you a map with all the spots haha. Highlight was defiantly going over to Los Lobos. It is a small island 15 minutes ferry ride from Corralalejo. The spot is a 500m long ripable right hand point which literally breaks at the foot of a Volcano, awesome stuff!! You can see by the pic that Craig and I couldn't get the smiles off our faces. Just finishing things up here in Lanzarote and will be back with the family soon, cant wait...

Canary Islands

2009-11-03T11:30:00.002+02:00

Passport, Visa, some Euros, too much camera gear and if I could only fit this tennis racket for Wok in my bag I would be set. Been a while in the planning but really stoked to have got things organised. Few days of favourable winds, some sun and swell and we should get the goods. Will try and send a blog from Lanzarote or Feurteventure if not will have a gallery when I get back. Till then...

Amashova 2009

2009-10-19T11:02:00.004+02:00

Billabong Campaign

2009-10-12T11:13:00.005+02:00

Billabongs new In Your Face and Rampage boardshort campaign featuring Shaun Joubert and Dale Staples. We went down the South Coast earlier this year to do the shoot and we scored some all time conditions. The final day of the shoot was in the Hirt and Carter studios - had some fun and literally trashed the place with paint. Not sure how happy they were with us, but hey, good times haha!

Wallpaper 9

2009-10-09T08:40:00.005+02:00

1680 X 1050

Ry Craike in Indo
Click on the image to download the bigger file

Kruger 2009

2009-09-30T15:36:00.004+02:00

The Sheriff’s Light Box 2

2009-09-11T10:46:00.002+02:00

Click here to go to the latest Sheriff’s Light Box gallery on the new Zigzag website.

Wallpaper

2009-09-11T10:38:00.010+02:00

This time next week I will be head to toe in khaki in the middle of Kruger on our annual trip and I thought it would be fitting to post one of my favourite shots from last years trip to get in the mood. If we have even half the sightings we had last year, it will be an awesome week.

1680 X 1050

1024 X 768

MAN UP

2009-08-27T12:43:00.001+02:00

I guess there comes a time in every guys life when he just knows... You man up for the occasion, one last check on your sanity (haha just kidding), drop the knee, fumble around for the ring, say the words she has been waiting to hear and it’s the best day of your life...

Sponsor Me!

2009-08-18T15:15:00.004+02:00

Just finished going through all the images from last weeks Zigzag Sponsor Me Shootout. Was a great week and event and I was really stoked to to have played a small part in it. The guys all surfed so well and really put in the time and effort to get the shots for which I must say thanks! The winner will be announced at an awards evening on Friday night but in the mean time here are a few of my favourite images with some real gems being held onto for then next issue (200th) of Zigzag.

Zigzag / Hurley Sponsor Me Shootout

2009-08-13T09:01:00.002+02:00

I've been busy down in the Eastern Cape shooting the Zigzag / Hurley Sponsor Me Shootout. Click here to check out the daily galleries.

gregewingphoto.com

2009-08-06T16:38:00.003+02:00

It’s been a while in the making but my new/updated website is finally up, all thanks to my way better half, Clare. The site has kept its original look and feel while just improving it’s functionality and download times. All the sections have been updated with new images shot over the last year of freelance. I've included a new Wildlife section which is something I really enjoy and will hopefully be added to after our yearly Kruger trip in September. Click here to check out the site. Any feedback is much appreciated!

Fox SurferX

2009-07-28T11:28:00.003+02:00

A few images from the Fox SurferX down at the Springfield Park track on Sunday. I’d never seen someone do a back flip in real life, pretty crazy stuff!!

The Sheriff's Lightbox

2009-07-21T15:30:00.002+02:00

With the nature and size of a magazine so few images ever make it to print resulting in a lot of shots ending up in a file or in a box of old DVD’s (very dramatic haha). So the good guys at Zigzag have created a Photo Blog for myself, AVG and Louis Wulff to show some of our work that may not make it in the mag. It also gives us a chance to caption the images and give a little insight into how they were created. So if you interested go to the Zigzag site or click here to go see it.

Jeep Series

2009-07-20T14:30:00.001+02:00

While my better half was grinding away on the course of the Jeep Multi Sport yesterday at Albert Falls I was out getting a few shots and working on my porti. It was a nice break from being the event photographer and just shooting for myself and experimenting a little with shutter speeds and fill-in flash. Few good ones in the bag, learnt a lot, all good!

J-Bay

2009-07-16T09:05:00.001+02:00

Well J-Bay has come and gone and I guess you know when you’re getting old when you grab the first flight out out there, contest rapped up, job done, it’s flippin cold, lets go home... haha. But seriously, cool contest and well done Parko! One step closer to that World Title. If there is one thing that stood out from this years contest was definitely Sean Holmes! The dude looked so in-tune with such effortless surfing. In a way it’s kind of like Parko’s surfing, he just makes it look so easy and natural rather than forcing a turn to emphasis his attack to the judges. So well done to Sean!! On top of that the serious amount of local support was insane. I heard a lot of people say that they have never seen the beach that packed before and they really got behind Sean and the other Saffas. Awesome! I’ve been doing some daily galleries for Zigzag on there website so if you’re interested click here to check them out.

Ballito Music Concert

2009-07-08T16:07:00.004+02:00

A few shots from last weeks Mr Price Music C out in Ballito. It was a pretty good night with about a 7000 strong crowd coming down to Salt Rock beach to see some of South Africa’s top bands like Zebra and Giraffe and Prime Circle just to name a few. Shooting a music concert on that scale was great and a nice change from the action photography that usually keeps me busy. There were countless angles to shoot with lights and effects all over the place but still nothing changes when you have a bunch of photographers all trying to get the shot so there were a few elbows in there haha all good. Highlight of the night... Definitely getting kicked out of the bands private bar. Give me one beer and I think I’m some sort of famous Rolling Stone photographer from the 60’s haha!

Tanner Gudauskus Wins Mr Price Pro

2009-07-06T09:49:00.001+02:00

So the Mr Price Pro Ballito has come and gone and I think everyone can agree that it was a great event. I must say that we were blessed some of the best conditions a lot of people have have witnessed for a surf contest and even though the swell dropped off for the last few days we still had good contestable waves. Go check out the slideshow on Surfline for a full rap up of the event.

Mr Price Pro

2009-07-01T07:35:00.002+02:00

The surf was absolutely firing yesterday at the Mr Price Pro Ballito. Some of the best contest conditions I have seen for a while. I have been shooting the event for Mr Price this year and to follow all the action and to check out the daily galleries, click here.

SBC Kiteboarder Cover

2009-06-29T09:12:00.001+02:00

My second cover of Reo Stevens in the last year, stoked!!

Good for the Soul

2009-06-23T13:43:00.003+02:00

Why I have the urge to pass on some silly bit of wisdom, I have know idea... but do yourself a favour. Next opportunity you get, wake up early, go for a surf, a run, a paddle, whatever you enjoy. It’s good for the soul!

Scratching the Surface

2009-06-08T17:09:00.004+02:00

I spent most of the last week down the coast with Jason Hearn shooting a section for his new movie Scratching the Surface.
If you don’t know about the project go to http://www.zigzag.co.za/site/awdep.asp&depnum=27636_47_11_A148 to check the trailer and little from the last section and trip we did together, Senegal. It’s a pretty cool project to be involved in and great to grab a little inspiration from Jason who has an excellent eye though I’m not 100 % sure what’s going on in the above image. I think Jay just gets really pumped when he gets the shots, haha. Anyway, few more locations on the cards over the next year, will keep you posted.

Swell, swell and more swell

2009-06-03T07:38:00.001+02:00

There are a lot of happy surfers in South Africa at the moment with all the swell we have been having. Here Royden Bryson pulls into some east coast perfection on our recent trip down the coast. Cant say exactly where but check the upcoming Zigzag for the whole story.

Wild Walk

2009-05-28T11:41:00.003+02:00

We all go to game parks at some stage of our lives and for those who don’t, I seriously recommend it. There is nothing like spending some time in the bush to relax, de-stress and get away from crazy city life. I recently got the call to do a bush trail and spent three days in the Hluhluwe Umfolozi Park doing an article for a local travel mag. It’s one thing viewing rhino or even lion from the safety of your car but running across them in the wild on foot is a completely different experience. If you like the outdoors, do this! It’s on the bucket list for sure.

Weekly Wallpaper 6

2009-05-18T12:55:00.006+02:00

1240 X 768

1680 X 1050

Surfer Ry Craike, Shot in Indo
Click on the image to download a bigger version.

Moving up!

2009-05-11T14:04:00.001+02:00

gregewingphoto.com now has office space... All 11m2 of it haha! Complete with roaming cat and some art work thanks to my friends at Zag.

Weekly Wallpapers 5

2009-05-11T10:28:00.005+02:00

1240 X 768

1680 X 1050

Click on the image to download a bigger version.

Weekly Wallpapers 4

2009-05-04T15:47:00.003+02:00

1240 X 768

1680 X 1050

Click on the image to download a bigger version.

Weekly Wallpapers 3

2009-04-28T12:02:00.013+02:00

1240 X 768

1680 X 1050

Click on the image to download a bigger version.

Weekly Wallpapers 2

2009-04-20T07:35:00.006+02:00

1024 X 7681680 X 1050
Click on the picture to download the bigger version.

Quiksilver Pro Durban

2009-04-17T16:53:00.001+02:00

Jeffrey’s Bay local Bertie Stuurman in action this morning at the Quiksilver Pro Durban. Go to http://www.quikprodurban.com to check all my images for the duration of the event.

Weekly Wallpapers 1

2009-04-09T14:45:00.017+02:00

Weekly Wallpapers is something that I have been wanting to do for a while. Basically it’s going to be a selection of my images which I like and hope to put up every week. The first is of Ricky Basnett boosting in Senegal, click the image to download the size you want.

600 x 800

1024 x 768

1280 x 1024

1680 x 1050

Dakar Article “Smoke & Fire” – Zigzag, April ‘09 issue

2009-04-03T11:18:00.006+02:00

Umzumbe Kids

2009-03-24T10:45:00.003+02:00

Sometimes you just get to do something cool. Will Bendix had been tuning for a while about some kids down the couth coast at Umzumbe and how we needed to go check it out and hook up a shoot. So last week we finally organised it and Brandon and I headed down early on Saturday morning to meet the guys. I guess I didn’t really know what to expect but it didn’t take long before I could see the energy and honest stoke these kids have for surfing. There was a perfect little split peak and I had my time cut out for myself shooting as every wave, set or insider was surfed all the way to the beach by at least 3 of the frothing groms. We all know the cost of equipment and a lot of these guys were sharing old boards - so this is a little call out to the industry or anyone who has some kit or boards they could donate. It would go to someone who needs it, and it would get good use and be much appreciated. So if anyone can help, leave a message here and I will forward it on to the right people.

Me and my 6000mm

2009-03-18T14:54:00.003+02:00

I found this photo of me on Facebook haha. Caption said ‘Ewing just cant miss the good shots' - Shot Richard

Babe shoot

2009-03-04T16:38:00.004+02:00

Its been a while since I did a fashion or swimwear shoot but was asked the other day to do the surf trivia page for Zigzag. For those who don’t know, Zag basically go out and find a hot chick, ask her to pose semi naked in front of a creepy surf photographer and then ask her some questions to which 50% of the time is answered uummmm Kelly Slater haha, just kidding. This time was different and they hooked up with two lovely Island Style girls. Of course one of the mothers was there to keep Warren Wareing in place and they hired the very civilized Greg Ewing to shoot the thing. In the end we had a great time and got the shots. So check out the Zag and of course watch this space for my upcoming Swimwear Calendar... Haha

Covers

2009-02-23T16:46:00.002+02:00

Can’t say I have ever got two covers in one day before, but its fine with me!

Cover of ADvantage Magazine and Australian Kiteboarder.

Travel

2009-02-18T08:22:00.007+02:00

We all need to travel more. I know it's not as easy as packing your bags and just getting in a car or on a plane but it is as easy as making the decision and the rest will fall into place.
Being from South Africa and relatively privileged enough to choose the quiet protected life of suburbia, I think a lot of us forget or maybe choose to forget that we live in Africa and there is a whole beautiful continent out there with a lot of positivity and things that could be learned and brought back here.
I recently returned from a trip to Dakar - what an amazing place. Dakar, like lots of African countries has problems including poverty and all that goes with it. But I left with admiration for the people who under obvious hardships are so positive and welcoming and have kept those simple values that a lot of people here in South Africa have forgotten. So next time you are thinking about traveling just make the decision and you might learn something.

Wisdom

2009-01-20T14:21:00.004+02:00

You have to wake up early sometimes to appreciate things... and then you can go back to bed!

New Year

2009-01-12T09:00:00.002+02:00

Please forgive me, it’s been a while since my last Blog... haha. Hope everyone had a great Christmas and news years! Was down in Cape town with the family as well as chasing little swells around the peninsula. Nothing to write home about but still had to jump in and test out the freeeezing water and little barrels at the Hoek. Some good trips in the pipelines for this year, little hint, Africa... Keep you posted.

Indo 08

2008-12-10T11:33:00.003+02:00

A selection of some of my favorite shots from a trip we did earlier in the year to the Mentawai Islands, Indonesia.

Who is this Greg Erving?

2008-12-02T09:00:00.003+02:00

November issue of Surfer, stoked with the shot but who is this photographer who keeps stealing my shots haha.

Triple Challenge 2008

2008-11-28T12:34:00.004+02:00

Anything is Possible

2008-11-25T15:20:00.002+02:00

Something I realize more and more is just how important it is to do something you love. It had been a bit of a crappy time with the break in and having to sort out a new laptop, being ripped by computer geeks, finding more and more things that had been lost and just feeling unsafe in the crazy world we live in. But just when I was feeling irritated I got a call to do an assignment for a well know travel mag and I was off to the bush again. It may not have been a holiday but getting out of the city was the best thing and reminded me how lucky I am to do what I do. So some advice to anyone who cares, follow your dreams, don’t sit in an office 5 days a week unless its what makes you happy and don’t get jealous when you hear about people sailing yachts around the world for a living. If that’s what you want to do, do it! It may not happen over night and it will take a lot of hard work but remember anything is possible...

Back-up! Back-up! Back-up!

2008-11-12T10:29:00.002+02:00

If there is one thing we all learn at some stage in this digital and crime ridden age is that you need to back up your work. I had been shooting various things, pretty much everyday and I had a long list of new files in my picture folder. I don't back up everyday, approx once a week, and as I was shutting down my computer last Wednesday evening, something told me to drag my new images to my lacie backup drive. To cut a long story short, some little monkey got into my flat while while I was sleeping and took off with my laptop, ipod and some other things (thanks for leaving my cameras!) So lesson learnt - backup your work!

High Stakes

2008-11-03T14:14:00.007+02:00

The stakes were high yesterday in Southbroom at the final of the Rip Curl grom search with trips to Australia to be awarded to the winners of the U16 divisions. It's big business these days and the little groms had their game faces on in the testing conditions. One dad decided that his son needed an upper/helping hand with the tricky rock jump and proceeded to throw him in at just the right time to avoid the set, classic! In the end Beyrick and Sarah took out out the premier divisions, well done guys, now clean up in OZ!

Summer Bowls

2008-10-29T12:38:00.002+02:00

It's that time of year again when the easterly is up and we wait for the high tide and bowls to start working in town. There have been a few opportunities to shoot in the past week but mainly pretty small stuff with the odd good set coming through. Here Beyrick De Vries shows some style on a little insider.

Pterygiums X 2

2008-10-21T14:20:00.007+02:00

After a frustrating two weeks of lying low and avoiding the sun due to having my pterygiums removed, this morning I decided enough was enough and I called fellow recent eye patient, Dan Redman for a shoot. It was Dan's first surf since his operation but I'm not blaming him for the lack of shots HAHA! In the end I think we were both a little over eager and the little Umhlanga shorey just didn't produce. Till next time...

Transkei Tripping

2008-10-09T16:45:00.007+02:00

I was fortunate enough to go on a photo trip to the Transkei earlier this year to explore a part of the country i have always wanted to visit. We may not have scored epic waves but it was a really great trip and fun surf was had by everyone. It is truly a beautiful and interesting part of the country. It is also true what they say, the people make the trip and you just need to put Frankie O near a fireplace with a drink in his hand and the classic stories of his Search day with Curren and the boys will come out. Frankie was joined by Bluff surfers Rudy Jnr. and Matt Daniel along with Rory Beach and recent Durban transplant Keegan Nel. My good friend Jason Hearn came along to cover the trip for Boardriders TV, and Brandon Bradley and I covered the story for Zigzag Surfing Magazine. Check the article out in the latest Zigzag as well as going to the link below for a slideshow of extra pics and a You Tube video post by Brandon.
http://www.zigzag.co.za/site/awdep.asp&depnum=26285_reefgroms_transkei

When it's Flat...

2008-10-08T09:08:00.005+02:00

I have been amping to use my new little macro set-up, (thanks to my beautiful girlfriend) and with not much surf to shoot i found myself crawling around the garden looking for a good subject. The most co-operative model of the day was Mr. fly and for some reason he didn't mind me sticking a big lens in his face, literally. Look at your fingernail, now think how big a fly is. It would be like the Hubbell telescope in your face, ha ha! I cropped in just to show the incredible detail. It's a whole new world out there, and something fun to shoot when its flat.

Kruger Pictures

2008-10-06T14:42:00.005+02:00

I spent some time this past week going through the Kruger images - so awesome because it brings back all the memories and excitement of the sightings. We were very lucky and saw so much in our 8 days. Have kept a couple which i will be updating on my website soon, as well as distributing and selling, but below are a few so you can get the idea of what we saw.