Newport Beach

California Surf

Sunrise on Cylinders, The Wedge, Newport Beach

This image is an old favorite of mine. There was a period of time when I was visiting the Wedge often, usually midweek during the school year so the water was empty and I could shoot waves alone. I had many great mornings like that, with glassy water, no wind…

Phil CollaNovember 9, 2022

California Surf

Beautiful Sunrise over the Wedge and Newport Coast

During August I made a few trips up to the Wedge to test out a new surf photography housing. I like to be there early to give myself a chance to see what the ocean is doing between the sand and the jetty, and to warm up and wake up.…

Phil CollaSeptember 25, 2012

Surf

Sunrise Color at the Wedge

Today I was fortunate to meet one of the surf world's great filmmakers: Jack McCoy. He introduced himself to me while I was standing on the sand waking up and waiting for the sun to rise before heading out in the water. A tall, quiet man with a quick smile,…

Phil CollaAugust 20, 2012

Surf

Newport Surf Photos

I tested out my latest Del Mar Surf Housing this morning. I had great light for about 20 minutes right at sunrise, then swam around for a few hours trying to photograph the set waves. I wish I was about 20 years younger, I feel pretty worked over. Thanks for…

Phil CollaAugust 18, 2012

Surf

The Wedge and Cylinders

A big New Zealand swell is hitting south-facing beaches, including the Wedge in Newport Beach which is seeing 20'+ faces right now. The light was terrible and the waves were sloppy and foamy. I'm glad I did not choose to shoot in the water because it would have been a…

Phil CollaSeptember 2, 2011

Surf

Shorebreak at the Wedge

Another morning at the Wedge. I sympathize with this guy as I have eaten more than my fair share of shorebreak sand too. It looks like the lip caught him in the back of the head just after this shot was taken. And this is only a small inside shorebreak,…

Phil CollaSeptember 21, 2006