I was pleasantly surprised to have a friend offer to take some pictures of me!... I am usually the one who is always swimming for his life with camera- as happy windsurfers fly by- trying to get their action images captured on film.

As a cameraman in the water, there always seems to be the perfect wave- that the sailor being shot always seems to miss.! 
Now on the other side of the camera, gained a greater appreciation for attempting to be in the right place at the right time! 
For high quality action images, there is a key point that goes beyond the obvious of lighting, wind and waves. This key is the relationship between the sailor and the cameraman... being able to trust in your partner is of the utmost importance. Without trust, it is difficult for the photographer to take a position in the water where he can not only get a great shot , but also feel safe that he will not lose any appendages! Close is great when there is control and trust... lacking either of the above can leave you with less than ideal shots, and possibly a trip to the hospital, or worse thousands of dollars of broken gear.

Francis Brewer 
August 08 Oahu