The Surf Stories Project

A photojournalism effort by Phillip Hernandez exploring how surfers, shapers, and creators use the ocean as a mirror — for fear, creativity, and connection.

Surfing has a way of stripping people down to who they really are. You can’t fake it out there — the ocean calls you on your bullshit.

This project is about that. About the people who use surfing to understand themselves, to build something, or to reconnect when everything else feels too noisy. Sometimes it’s creative, sometimes it’s business, sometimes it’s therapy. All of it’s real.

I’m drawn to the stories that sit between the serious and the ridiculous — the way we talk big about “flow states” and “fear” while laughing about lost fins and bad wax jobs. Surfing is a paradox, and that’s what makes it human.

Through short documentary pieces and still imagery, I’m exploring how surfing reflects who we are on land — our fears, our habits, our drive to keep paddling back out. (Or maybe, I just want to capture you in your element.) I’m looking to connect with surfers, shapers, coaches, creators, or anyone who uses the ocean as a creative outlet, business tool, or form of self-work.

You don’t need to be a pro or a polished storyteller — just someone with a perspective worth exploring. Whether that means being photographed, interviewed, or collaborating on a short film, it all starts with a conversation.

If any of this hits home — if you’re someone who’s using the ocean as your medium, your muse, or your medicine — I’d love to hear from you. Tell me your story, your idea, or just say what keeps you coming back to the water.

Drop your email or a few thoughts below. Maybe we’ll build something from it.

If you are interested in just a photo session or commercial work, kindly refer to my contact page.

— Phillip Hernandez
Surf Photographer | Photojournalist
www.phillip-hernandez.com
@philliphernandez