Welcome to socalaquashots, where a deep love for the ocean meets the art of photography.

I’m Gwendal, surfer, ocean enthusiast, and photographer. For over 25 years, I’ve been immersed in the worlds of surfing, marine conservation, and fisheries policy. My connection to the sea is more than a passion, it’s a way of life. It’s also what fuels every image you see here. The ocean has always been a constant, a place of connection, inspiration, and grounding. It’s also what shapes every photo you’ll find here.

Raised across the globe and shaped by coastal life in California, Costa Rica, France, Mexico, and the UK, I’ve always found sanctuary in the ocean. These days, I spend most mornings in the water, surfing with a camera tucked into my wetsuit or boardshorts. I take most of my shots while I’m out there, paddling through the lineup or waiting for the next set, capturing what unfolds around me. It’s a simple, spontaneous way of creating, and it’s where this project began.

Each image starts with time in the ocean. I shoot between sets, during lulls, or on the paddle back out. It’s unpredictable and often challenging, but that’s part of what makes it meaningful. After that comes the quieter work: reviewing shots, editing with care, designing products, and keeping the site up to date. It’s a slow, hands-on process that mirrors the rhythm of surfing itself: always changing, always teaching.

Outside of photography, I work as a marine conservation consultant and translator, collaborating with NGOs and organizations around the world. That background gives me a deeper perspective on the ecosystems I photograph, and I hope that awareness comes through in the work.

socalaquashots is my way of sharing what the ocean gives me, the stillness, the power, the beauty, and the wild moments in between. Whether you're a surfer holding onto a perfect session, a beach lover in search of ocean-inspired decor, or someone who simply finds peace in the sea, I hope these images speak to you.

A portion of all proceeds supports coastal communities through health, education, and sustainability initiatives, giving back to the places and people behind the waves.

In the gallery, you’ll find ocean-inspired artwork from Southern California, Costa Rica, and Mexico. I offer premium wall art, jigsaw puzzles, and desk mats/mousepads, perfect for your home, office, or as a gift for the ocean lover in your life.

Thanks so much for being here. Whether you’re browsing, shopping, or just enjoying the view, I'm grateful to share these moments with you.

Let’s make waves together 🌊🌴

Find me on Instagram @socalaquashots