Nazare' A Onda PortuguĂŞsa / Vol.1 Rip'n Snap
contents
chap 1 Nazare' info / 12
chap 2
My story / 14-37
chap 3
Wave guns'n Board spirits / 38-65
chap 4
The Lighthouse / 66-87
chap 5
The Nazare' wave / 94-141
chap 6
Interview with Andrew Cotton / 146-221
chap 7 Interview with Dave Langer / 224-249
chap 8
Lens brothers - Jose Pinto & Andre' Botelho /250-325
WEB www.ripandsnap.com
EDITOR
M.Wengler
CONTACT
ripandsnap@gmail.com
All photo’s in this e-mag is shot by Andre Botelho, Jose Pinto and M.Wengler.
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Nazare Onda Português
‘
/ Vol. 1
Total area The total area of Nazare' is 82.4 square kilometre. With a population of 15158 inhabitants (2011) According to the Legend of Nazare', the town derives its name from a small wooden statue of the Virgin Mary, a Black Madonna, brought by a monk in the 4th century from Nazareth.
As
As far back as I can remember, I’ve been drawn by the ocean, and as a kid the ocean was the best playground on the planet, especially waves - the motion of the ocean - sometimes calm and quiet, other times roaring monsters.
I grew
I grew older and so did my passion for waves, slowly developing into an obsession. I began to explore our amazing blue planet with my camera, trying to capture the essen of ocean spirit. Being able to freeze a split second in time is a great feeling, a camera is a powerful tool, and as they say: “a picture says more than a thousand words”.
But these days we also live in a world, where everything moves so fast. The media hype for bigger, higher and more dangerous moves constantly pushes the limits of what is possible. What is shot on a Monday will be online Tuesday and forgotten Wednesday, which is kind of sad, I think.
Surfing
Surfing quickly caught my photographic attention, especially big wave surfing. The boundaries have been pushed a lot since tow in boards became a reality, new records and standards are constantly pushed beyond everything we could imagine just a few years back. So when I saw a video from Portugal with Garrett McNamara surfing one of the biggest waves I’d ever seen, I got very curious. What was this place - called Nazare’ - all about, and could this little Portuguese fishing village really deliver one of the most significant waves on the planet…?! I booked a trip to Portugal, wanted to shoot some pic’s during the WSL event in Peniche. After a couple of days in Peniche they called for a “lay-day” so I decided to drive up to Nazare’ and check it all out…It was love at first sight…!!
Since
Since I’ve visited Nazare' on several occasions during some huge winter swells. It’s given me the opportunity to shoot lot's of pictures from this magical and unique little town, a place which has become very close to my heart.
Over the years I've managed to collect a huge pile of photographic material from Nazare', enough to create at least two Rip'n Snap Special Editions. That's why I've decided to give something back, show my gratitude for all the great moments I've had in Nazare’ by sharing some captured moments in cyberspace and hopefully succeed in showing the world how unique Nazare’ - and it’s world famous waves - really are. Nazare’ - Things to do
I Hope
I hope you’ll get a taste of the Nazare' spirit after you been through the First Edition. If it isn't enough to convince you about the rustic beauty of Nazare’, well then a second edition is 'in pipeline' while writing this. And I'm pretty excited about the Second Edition as well, because I've had the pleasure of interviewing the Mayer of Nazare’ - Mr. Walter Chicharro plus some other interesting people who in different ways are connected to Nazare’.
Second
Second Edition is of course free and has plenty of pictures from Nazare’ too. Again, you’ll find lot’s of relevant links to videos, websites, social media platforms, etc. If you want to receive the Second Edition directly in your mailbox make sure to sign up for it - HERE - no strings attached what so ever, and I hate spam just as much as you do.
I never forget I never forget my first trip to Nazare’. I arrived
around midday after a 1 hour drive from Ericeria where I was staying. The salty smell of big ocean greeted me. A mixture of small cafes and local restaurants tempted me, so I had a lovely lunch consisting of fresh sea food, of course. Nazare’ showed up to be one of those places you can’t forget, like a summer love affair you never really recover from. I always feel that a part of my soul stays in Nazare’ when I leave Portugal. It’s easy to be seduced by the warm and positive atmosphere in Nazare’ and Portugal in general. The Portuguese vibe is so pleasant and welcoming. I always feel very much at home, whenever I’m visiting this beautiful country
Nazare ' Nazare’ is a relatively small town, dealing with
financial issues - like so many other cities in southern Europe - as a result of the financial crises from 2008. Furthermore Nazare’ has quite suddenly developed into the European centre for the ‘international big wave cirque’, and all the media hype following in its tail. So quite suddenly this little town has to deal with all the international media and lot’s of people flying in every time a powerful low is on it’s way.
As I see it, there’s no doubt Nazare’ has no shortage of future challenges but also huge possibilities, some of them could mean a very positive and economically prosperous future since Nazare’ no doubt will receive much more attention in the future, new records will be set, people from all over the world will visit. It’s the European “Big Wave Mecca” and by far the ultimate European big wave challenge, a place you’ve to explore once in your life if you’ve the slightest interest in surfing.
I arrived Well, after finishing my delicious
sea food lunch, I decided to check out the Lighthouse. Somehow it all felt like life by chance had led me to the Nazare’ wave, like it was meant to be a part of my destiny to experience this huge Portuguese wave. I arrived at the Lighthouse full of expectation, but there were no waves at all, totally flat….could this place really hold one of the biggest waves on the planet?
Instead Instead I drove back to town,
searching for Garrett McNamara’s famous surf shop. After a little while I found it. It’s really a cool surf shop, very authentic and in the basement there’s this amazing collection of used big wave boards (tow in’s and wave guns). Seeing these old and used big wave boards in Garrett’s shop blew me away.
I've always been very fascinated by these 'loyal partners' to the surfers, riding them through the toughest and most extreme waves on the planet. And the night after seeing these old big wave boards in McNamara's shop, I had a very realistic and weird dream about 'Board Spirits'. Somehow I couldn't let go of this weird dream, it stayed in my subconscious for a long time.
So here's a few exaples of my artistic vision of these 'Board Spirits' from my dream.
All the following 'Board Spirits' are based upon boards shot in belonging Over the years I began Nazare' to imagine how these to: McNamara, Cotweird "Board Spirits" ton, Vau and Langer. generated by all the ocean power they are PS. Limited editions of maneuvering through, these "Board Spirits" looked like.....if we could are available in cusse them of course!!‌.. tom sizes - if interested send a request to ripandsnap@gmail.com
After After dreaming of board spirits for a
while in McNamaras surf shop, I asked the guy behind the desk if Garrett was in town. Positive. So I gave him my card and asked him to give it to McNamara, in case he was interested in letting me shoot some pic’s of him and his crew. Never expected to hear anything from McNamara, but while I drove back to Ericeira my phone suddenly rang..! We agreed to meet by the Lighthouse very early the next morning.Â
The Lighthouse N 39° 36.271 W 009° 05.096
When I saw the Lighthouse the following morning - an old building originally called the "St. Michael Archangel Fort" - I was blown away by it's rustic and raw beauty. It creates a unique contrast to the ocean and makes the gigantic waves fit perfectly into this amazing scenery. The history behind it, is quite fascinating. It was built in 1577 by orders from King Sebastian to protect the beach from attacks of Algerian, Moroccan and Norman pirates. After the restoration of the Portuguese monarchy, King John V ordered the renewal and enlargement of the original fort, giving it the outline it still keeps. It is a remarkable military monument of coastline defense. Above the entrance door is a lowrelief statue of St. Michael Archangel and the inscription "El-Rey Dom Joam o Quarto - 1644” (The room of El-Rey Dom Joam)
The Lighthouse makes you feel very humble. Realizing what this old building must have been through. So much history.....so much ocean power.
Nazare' harbour covered in morning mist 'flowing in' from the back country.
View of the Lighthouse shoot from the town beach.
A night view of Nazare's beach area shoot from the Lighthouse. In this area you will find a great variety of restaurants, bars and hotels.
The beautiful beach on the left side of the Lighthouse. It's just "200% uniqueness" and I tried to walk out to the point you see in the horizon, but this magnificent beach it just continues forever up north. Pure and unspoiled nature.
Rider on this pic G Mac
Meeting Garrett and his crew became a game changer for me, because it all happened while a huge swell were moving towards Nazare’ - perfect timing for a unique photographic experience. On top of that, I was kindly ‘invited in’ by Garret and his crew of big wave surfers (Andrew Cotton, Hugo Vau a.o.) for a couple of days, letting me shoot whatever happened during the coming super swell.
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..if my board looks like a candy stick ..if I loose my passion for the ocean ..if I turn into a lazy couch potato ...if I cut my hair’n loose my cool
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I've shot I’ve shot early mornings and late
nights, heavy weather conditions and calm sunshine, but most of all I’ve shot the unique surfing conditions in Nazare’ and I can assure you, it’s mind blowing. A Portuguese friend of mine once said to me “I am pretty sure there is a huge Sea Monster living down there in the deep underwater canyon of Nazare’, and when it get’s angry, it strikes it’s tail and hell breaks loose on the surface”. I kind of like that explanation; it adds even more magic to the huge Nazare’ wave.
IfIf youyou haven't yet seen this gigantic Portuguese
wave, then it's certainly worth a visit. You’ll never look at waves the same way after being exposed to the "Nazare' Sea Monster striking it's tail'. It's instant addiction, other waves suddenly seems very small and insignificant. It shakes you up, melts into your soul and changes your perspective of what Mother Earth is capable of.
Rider on this pic G Mac
Rider on this pic G Mac
The North Canyon (Praia do Norte) in Nazare’ is very deep with vertical underwater rock formations, which is why the waves rices so powerful to the surface. A unique geographical phenomenon located in front of the Lighthouse.
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3
n
'
The shape of some of these waves sometimes look like a big bowl and some of these waves get so big, that the top of the wave literally gets separated like a big lump of water falling of, probably thousands of gallons of water, which could be pretty serious for someone surfing it.Â
aZa
I've I’ve been very privileged getting
access to the roof of the Lighthouse several times, it’s an amazing experience. Up there the only fence securing you from stepping into the deep underneath you, is just a yellow line on the floor! It’s a pretty scary feeling looking down, seeing the waves pondering against the rocks several hundred meters underneath you, sending cascades of water all the way up to the roof, and feeling the whole Lighthouse slightly vibrating at times. I’ve so much respect for this place. It’s instant death if anyone should get caught in front the rocks underneath the Lighthouse. It’s really scary shit, and my balls are tested every time I’m up there during a big swell..!!
Then Then there's
the riders, these top athletes the ‘big wave terminators’ - who are able to control their minds, hold their breath and fearless charge these monster waves of Nazare’. You quickly realize that they could never fit into a 9 to 5 lifestyle. They live their lives in a serious and constant danger zone. But it also became very clear to me that they are following their sincere passion in life, a passion to ride the biggest, tallest and most powerful wave on the surface of our amazing blue planet.
Rider
G Mac
One is
One is UK big wave surfer Andrew Cotton. ‘Cotty’ was born in Plymouth, and grew up on the North Devon Coast where he first started surfing at the age of seven. Andrew has an incredible down to earth and very pleasant personality, staying true to his roots. I’ve meet Andrew on several ocations and we’ve had an interesting talk about big wave surfing and Nazare’
Andrew Cotton Conversation
with
a
big
wave
terminator
Nationality : Age : Profession : Passion :
British 35 yrs Big wave surfer, Lifeguard, Plumber Surfing, Family, Life
"Have
no fear of moving into the unknown.Simply step out fearlessly knowing that I am there for you, therefore no harm can befall you, all is very, very well. Do this in complete faith and confidence" Pope John Paul II
Hello Andrew Hello Andrew THX for taking some time of to be a part of this special edition from Nazare'. It's such a unique place with so much ocean power, beautiful nature and lot's of amazing history as well. It must be a perfect reflection of every big wave surfers dream, so lets just jump right into this interview.
Did you know Did you know that originally the Britt's descends
from the Danish Vikings and the Germanic people‌something I actually just found out lately. So I have to ask you if you think it was the Danish Vikings who brought the beer traditions and sarcastic humor to Great Britain...(big smile..!!) ?? Haha...I never did history in school so it's all new to me, but I think you could be right!Â
Nazare' is
Nazare' is a very special place with so much to offer, but could you mention a few of your favorite places in this charming Portuguese fishing village? The stairs, I love to run the stairs that go from the town up into the Sito. Such a good view from there. The whole towns really cool, great little streets, cafes and Resturants but my favourite has to be Celeste, its amazing in there.
You have surfed You have surfed Mullaghmore several times, so how would you describe that wave compared to the Nazare' wave - what do you feel is the biggest difference between those two power zones? Mullaghmore is an amazing big wave spot which has to be one of my favourites, its really hollow, breaks in the same spot and has a super deep channel all around it. Nazare is random, every wave is different and there are no safe zones, its tough to surf as its so unpredictable. Nazare' at size is definiately the more challenging wave in every aspect.
“
The exact same... Shiiiit..HaHaHa
I Iremember remember shooting this picture of you in Nazare'. You were located in a very serious position between one of the biggest waves in the world…. and some really gnarly rocks. While shooing you, in that exact moment, I remember I only had one word in mind and it was…shiiiit!!!….What went through you head during those couple of seconds, before you were picked up by the jet ski.
The exact same…… Shiiiiiit! Haha.
the crash
the consequence
New records New records will be set within big wave surfing,
and it will create lot's of media hype as it has done so far. How important do you feel social media platforms are when it comes to expose the big wave surf scene and your sponsors? Its all part of trying to be a professional surfer, you need to use the media to help boost your profile and keep sponsors. The amazing thing about big wave surfing is that the mainstream press seem to love it so much, sometimes more than the actual surfing media.
Speaking of
Speaking of jet skies - I have the biggest respect for this part of big wave surfing, and I have seen you 'going in deep' to pick up Garrett and Hugo during some pretty critical conditions. Since I know you were injured on a jet ski in Nazare', could you then tell me how does it feel when you experience these "close calls" on a heavy jet ski compared being on a surfboard? - and what are the greatest risks when you are riding a Jet ski out there? Jet skis can be your best friend but your worst enemy, there so good for rescuing surfers if used correctly but at the same time super dangerous as the go so fast so quickly and if the hit you or roll on top of you can cause serious injury. I try and drive the skis as slow as possible at all times, its always easier to speed up if needs be but way harder to slow down if you're going to fast. If the waves are manageable without a ski I'd always choose just to take a board out. I only use a ski as a necessity.
You have managed really You have managed really well in the 'Tow scene' Andrew, and you deserves it, I can imagine how much time and effort is needed to succeed in big wave surfing. But you are also a 'Dad-man' with a lovely wife and two young 'terrorists' back in the UK. How do you make these two worlds balance? I imaging your wife must have something to sa here!!
Haha, its been a long road for me, I've been surfing since I was really young but I always wanted it to be more than just a hobbie. Its amazing finally to be able to call my passion my job but it hasn't come easy and wouldn't of been achievable without the support of my amazing wife and family and of course all the other guys I surf with.
Who are your main sponsors
Andrew? - and have things changes after you were nominated in theBillabong XXL event? Obviously its great publicity and recognition being nominated but not a lot really changed for me because of that, I was nominated before back in 2012. it was more the mainstream media press and coverage I got which was so surprising and beneficial. My main sponsors now are Tiki Wetsuits, Redbull, Sungod Sunglasses, Lifedge, Dryrobe.
I Inoticed noticed your boards were quite heavy when I followed
you guy's in Nazare' - what is the ideal weight and length for you? - and do you prefer a very stiff board all through the outline - or do you prefer a more soft nosed and stiff mid/ tail section? My boards are 5'10 x 16" x 1" 7/8 there really heavy with lead inserts and also really straight railed, almost more like a snowboard than a surfboard.
W
What do you think will happen with future board designs for big wave surfing? - Any new trends you think we will seesoon? So hard to guess, board design seems to take one step forward then two steps back, I'm always afraid to change a design if I know its working for me and I can trust it.
Places like Jaws on Maui, certain places in Australia and Teahupoo are also known for it's gigantic waves, have you any plans of visiting any of these places in a nearby future? Yes of course, its all a matter of time and money. But some of my goals this winter are to go to Hawaii /Jaws.
H
ave you tried Garrett McNamaras new Mercedes boards, if so what is the secret behind these very cool looking boards? I haven't surfed them but they are made from a cork blank I believe, wich would effect how they flexes in the water. He seems to love them.
How was it in Cali' at the Billabong XXL event? Yeah, it was fun, great to see all my heroes and big wave legends that have inspired me over the years. A real honor to be there.
You have surfed some of the biggest waves in the world in Nazare' and Mullaghmore ( RESPECT!! ) - which is pretty difficult to beat, but where do you see yourself in a couple of years from now?
Surfing more, surfing better and hopefully surfing bigger waves.
I really like
I really like the seafood in Nazare' it's outstanding, so tell me what is your favorite dish down there? and which one is your favorite restaurant ? I'm not the biggest sea food fan but the salmon in restaurant Celeste is amazing.
Have you Places like Jaws on Maui, certain
places in Australia and Teahupoo are also known for it's gigantic waves, have you any plans of visiting any of these places in a nearby future? Yes of course, its all a matter of time and money. But one of my goals are to go to Jaws this winter.
Having
Having experienced a huge swell in Nazare', it's clear that a high level security is essential, but as I understand it, there is a big difference between for example the security rules at Mullaghmore, compared to Nazare'. Where do you think the biggest challenge lies when it comes to keep a very high level of security in the North Canyon of Nazare' ? The laws are very different in Portugal than in Ireland, in Ireland you can pretty much launch a ski anywhere without permission, license, or safety. This can work for or against you. Portugal has very different laws which have always been there, tow surfing is illegal in Portugal as I understand but the north beach is an exception with the right license and security in place, it's a dangerous beach, things can go wrong very quickly there. So although it can be frustrating for surfers wanting to surf it may be a great way of protecting life's at sea.
We were
We were both there, when Maya nearly passed away during the big swell a while ago, such a strong and terrifying experience, but also a reminder of how dangerous the Nazare' wave really is. What were your reaction and feelings out there on the jet ski? Did you realize what was going on with her? Or weren't you able to follow her situation from where you where located? We were hearing what was happening, and yes it was a huge reality check, but we all know the risks. It was just highlighted how important team work is out there and we shouldn't take anything for granted.
It was
It was such an unpleasant and emotional experience to shoot these pic's, because seeing another human struggling for her life through my camera lens, gave me some intense moral issues, and if Maya had past away, I would have deleted these pic's, but she came through, so these pic's have instead become a symbol of survival and a very brave behaviour from Carlos Burle, who never gave up trying to find Maya in the huge, chaotic, white water zone.
If you look closely on the wave in the back, then you will find Maya Gabeira surfing it. That was the wave she got in serious trouble on in Nazare'. Puts things a bit in perspective regarding the size of these waves.
Maya caught in the Nazare’ ‘foam zone’.... lot’s of unpredictable current, very difficult to swim in.
Again, If you look closely then you will find Maya Gabeira - she is the tiny black dot to the right from Carlos Burle on the jet ski. Nazare' is a very dangerous place, but luckily Maya survived and everything turned out OK at the end, but it was a very close call.
Keeping
Keeping your breath must be essential as a big wave surfer, so tell me Andrew do you make any kind of breathing exercises, like those free divers do? - and if so how long are you able to keep your breath? I have some great breathing exercises I do when surfing which I learnt on a free diving course, it helps keep me calm, oxygenate my blood and prepare my body. The longest I've held my breath is 4 mins 20 seconds.
Cotty...cautht in a tight place..!!
We Have We have witnessed a dramatic environmental
change in our oceans during the last 20 years, so I'm curious Andrew, for a person spending so much time in the ocean as you are, what are your greatest concerns regarding the future environmental situation of our oceans? I've read so much about environmental issues with our oceans and it just really scares me, I want my kids to use the ocean like I have all my life which also motivates me to try and make a change, beach cleans, joining the Surfers against sewage and just making others aware.
Q
Last Question Andrew‌..Nazare' surely have delivered some amazing records, do you think we have seen the biggest so far or has the North Canyon still some magic left in the deep? The biggest is yet to come, for sure.
A
Another big wave profile in Nazare’ is Dave Langer. Dave have moved from Hawaii to Nazare’ trying to live out his dream, being close to the Nazare’ wave. Again I’ve had the pleasure of a very honest and sincere talk with Dave about Nazare’ and how life is as a big wave surfer, always chasing the perfect monster wave.
Nationallity : U.S. Age : 45 Profession : Athlete Passion : Tow Surfing
DAVE LANGER “Tallman”
Dave you are such an ocean spirit and as I understand it, a new charger down there in Nazare'. So I looked very much forward to do this interview with you.
Hi Dave
I'm really grateful for having you onboard this first special edition from Nazare’ by Rip'n Snap..!
You're very welcome Mark. You are an ocean spirit as well. Aloha brother.
Dave......You have surfed many different places - plz. tell me, which one is your favorite ? So yeah, I guess my favorite spot is Nazare' right now. The challenges and risks are so enormous, as well are the rewards. Watching it this past xxl swell (Dec. 11th 2014.) was a melancholy moment for me. It was sad not surfing and a treat to watch it all.
Since you come from Hawaii, what would you say is the biggest security challenge between Hawaii, Papoa and Nazare' ?
Coming from Hawaii it is mind blowing to find something more perfect and powerful, untamed and ... Like a dragon, something that commands respect in all of it's beauty. To ride it like in Avatar, is the reward and it will be a bond that lasts a lifetime in that same way. To tame the beast if only for the sake of battle is enough. Art more than sport, a spot on the totem pole or in the hierarchy of the tribe is more than we can ask for in the end. For what you stand for to carry on to future generations.
The biggest security challenge at Jaws are the rocks that eat jet skis. At Papoa it is unknown as of yet, seems tame yet not at all really. Rocks as well. At Nazare' it is the wave the whitewash the cliff the rocks the mystical nature of the canyon amplifying the waves and more.
The Nazare' wave is quite consistent, its not crowded (yet) and there are other places close by with potential big waves. Have you ever considered to move permanently to Nazare' ? The waves here are too numerous to imagine. We have our hands full right here within view of the Sitio. I will move here permanently eventually yes. Who has been your inspiration / mentors Dave ? Mentors are The Duke, Eddie Aikau, Dane Kealoha, and all the new watermen like Laird right through Kealii and Garrett.
You have towed in at Jaws, Papoa and Nazare' so what would you say is the biggest difference between these 3 waves ? The waves are different in that Jaws is perfect yet menacing, Papoa is untouched and holding gems yet hard to read, Nazare' is Puerto Escondido meets Jaws and Papoa yet bigger.
Dave you have spent quite some time in Nazare' by now and it's is such a special place, but if you should recommend a couple of places to a new visitor, what would it be ? In Nazare' the wave is the big attraction no pun intended. Get to the beach at Praia do Norte and feel the sand in between your toes. It's what you can't do in Lisbon. The power of this beach is unsurpassed. Besides that, the church is a must see and the restaurant nearby on the way to the waves, Arimar, will have you right where you need to be.
Do you see a potential conflict between paddling in on big wave guns and tow in surfing in Nazare' since paddling always have first priority? The 'tow in paddle controversy'died when Nazare' entered the game.The playing field is too big here to be concerned about it. The waves will wash paddle surfers in more often than anywhere else in the world as the lineup is constantly changing with each set of waves.
How would you describe the differences between the security level when towing in on on Jaws compared to Nazare' ? The security level again is more severe here than say at Jaws. I have been in trouble at Jaws yet never lost a ski. Have you ever been in trouble in Nazare' - or at Jaws ? Here at Nazare' I have yet to put in a lot of hours yet been lucky as of yet, but I had a close call last year. We have unfortunately witnessed corporative interests trying to buy up unique place like fx. the Maldives, how do you feel about this kind of development? - and do you think we will se more of that in the future? Corporate interest groups are a handful aren't they? Andrew Cotton just got a new hat from Red Bull and I congratulated him whole heartedly. Buying land will not control the water so they have a way to go yet once cameras are in place I would imagine exclusivity will come with it.To this day though it has not, which says a lot about big wave surfing. I want success for our sport and corporate help is welcome what I don't want to see is exclusivity in any way. Share it with the world and reward those who make it happen and cover it.
As a big wave surfer, security must be one of your top priorities, how do you prepare your self for a place like Nazare' and Jaws? Mental preparation is key. I smoke herb a lot. Bob Marley is a huge inspiration of mine. Relaxation is the key to success and it helps me get there. I stretch and practice shaolin breathing techniques. Writing and meditation, riding bikes and skateboarding, hiking, swimming, running on the beach. carrying jet skis on the beach at times whatever it takes to train is good by me. Lately I trained with a trainer and really enjoyed it ,I'll have to do that more often. I also use spare air tank as well, just in case I run out down there.
If you should design a tow-in board for Nazare' what would the design, weight and outline be like? The tow in board for Nazare' will be 100% recycled material and about 20 pounds. Hugo Cartashana and Nelson Nobre make my tow boards over here. Cork seems to work really well out at Nazare' as it distributes the bump evenly throughout the core thus dampening the shake rattle and roll feelinherent to the speed and texture of the surface here.
I have witnessed a huge environmental change in our oceans since I was a kid, as a true ocean spirit, where do you see the biggest environmental challenges world wide? I think pollution sucks. Polluting our bodies is where we need to stop the madness first. Throwing cigarette butts in the street is not ok. Plastic is the biggest issue. We need to start becoming conscious of what we throw away and use it again if at all possible before throwing it in the ocean basically.
Last one Dave…how do you see the Nazare' big waves surf scene in a couple of years from now? And what kind of influence do you believe it will have on the local community ? The community and country here in Nazare', Portugal has embraced big wave tow surfing like nowhere else in the world. It is a sport and an art form that brings people from all walks of life and far away places. Water Safety and the techniques involved and teamwork necessary to pull it all together is something they are leading the sport in today. This will carry through the community and big wave surf world solidifying it's place on their map. That place being the absolute in power and potential in a pursuit that necessitates the ultimate risk and thus respect.
Whenever I’m traveling with my camera, I always enjoy meeting local photographers. They know their region very well, and with a humble and positive approach you can lean so much about the local community from these guy’s, achieve knowledge which you normally would’ve to gain by spending time exploring by yourself. To me it’s all about respect, sharing some positive vibes and trying to understand the local traditions, and enter the premises of the country you are visiting, no matter where you travel to.
L ns Broth rs
Portuguese
In Nazare' I've meet several brilliant photographers, and in this edition I have had the pleasure of interviewing two of these local 'Lens Brothers' named Jose' Pinto and Andre Botelho. They are both very talented, yet they both shoot with pretty inexpensive gear, which shows that even though you don't have expensive gear, it's still possible to create some real magic with your camera. which clearly proves that it’s the eye of the beholder that’s crucial, not the equipment used seeing through. I'm very pleased they both agreed to let me interview them for this special edition of Rip'n Snap. So let me introduce Jose' Pinto and Andre Botelho, two great and very inspiring local photographers from Nazare'
LENS
BROTHER
José’
Pinto
Jose' has shot some amazing pictures from Nazare' which have been showed all over the globe . I therefore decided to ask Jose' if he wanted to let me bring an interview of him and show some of his work in this special Nazare' edition of Rip'n Snap. And I'm very plesed to say.........Ze' Pinto agreed…!!!
ze’
I am very grateful that you, as a local photographer from Nazare' region, said yes to do this interview. We both share the same passion for photography and I have followed your great work for some time now. You have a really good instinct for capturing the right angle, a unique moment of light and a perfect timing. To me that's what photography is all about, it's a talent and a gift not all photographers possess. I believe you have that gift, that special talent, which clearly shows in your pic's.
Josë’
....as we agreed to do this interview, I asked you if you could send me a vide range of pictures from the Nazare' region, instead of only surfing pictures. It gives an interesting and local angle to it all.The readers will then see Nazare' through your brilliant photographic eye. When I opened the Drop Box folder you invited me to, I was ''blown away'' by your pictures, which made it really hard for me to chose. I hope the readers will enjoy your brilliant pic's as much as I did when I created the visual layor behind this interview. - So let's just 'dive' into it Jose.
Could you tell me a little about yourself and your background, where you come from in Portugal and how long you have lived in the Nazare' region ?
Could you
My name Jose' Pinto, my family are from the Douro Region in the Northern part of Portugal (the best wine producing region) but I was born in 1960 in a glass making town called Marinha Grande just 20 kms from Nazare'. I studied Economic in Coimbra and later moved back to my hometown working in the Financial sector. Nowadays, besides working for a company in that area, I'm also a teacher at local University.Â
How old How old where you when your interest for photography began ? I was about 15 years old when I borrowed a friends camera, an Olympus and decided to go out and look for interesting things in everyday places. Most of these pictures where shot in black and white and I still have a few at home. Photography has always been a question of following my instincts.
Your surfing pictures from Nazare' is really amazing, you always find new angles to it all -Â it's very inspiring, but when did you begin to developing an interest in shooting the surf scene ? My surfing photography started when my kids started surfing about 10 years ago. At this time I was living by the sea, on an isolated beach called Pedra do Ouro,very close to Nazare'. I began to enjoy capturing the fun in the movement the waves were creating. The truth is, I have always had a very close relationship with the sea.
Nazare' must have changed a lot since the famous Nazare' wave was discovered and surfed by Mr. McNamara. What do you as a local feel has been the biggest change and challenge for the local community ? Since Garret came to Nazare' to surf the biggest wave in the world in 2010 (I was there) our small charming fishing town has now become much more popular amongst the younger generation and has also developed into a center for many radical sports events such as bodyboarding, downhill biking, paragliding and of course serious big wave surfing. Thanks to Garret McNamarra and his great positive spirt Nazare' was highly promoted worldwide.Â
" I have always had a very close relationship with the sea "
To me a Black &White photography can be a very powerful way of presenting a surfing picture, what do you prefer B&W or Color pictures when it comes to surfing ? Black and White photos create a high impact when waves are tremendous and the atmosphere is misty. But when the colors are intense and the natural light is perfect I prefer to shoot in color. Surf photography is all about timing and new perspective, especially when it comes to shooting Nazare', since so many pictures have been shot from the same angles, but you always surprises me with new angles. So tell me which of your own pictures are your favorite picture from Nazare' ? As my wife and I both enjoy photography, we take advantage of our weekend trips, sunday walks and days out in nature to find new spots to get inspired by light and locations. A little planning and study of the area is also very important before shooting any great event. Its very hard to name my favorite photo but I can say that I really enjoyed shooting an early morning  session on 29th November 2014 at Praia do North. This morning was totally magical, the sunrise the colors of the sky and waves were beautiful. Hard to describe the feeling (I think my wife made a video of our arrival before sunrise on this amazing day). Anyway, my top top favorite photo is the photo I will be shooting in a near future.
" Black &White photos create a high impact "
The rustic beauti of
Obidos 30 kms south of Nazare'
Do you believe that the Nazare' community can benefit economically in any way from this very unique and extremely big wave? if so could you maybe share some of your thoughts ? Yes, Nazare' and the community has greatly benefited from this amazing nature phenomena. Just a few weeks ago a surfing centre called CARSURFCentro Alto Rendimento for surfers has opened it's doors to receive big wave surfers from all over in the world, to train these guys to ride monster waves with extreme safety measures.Â
"Thanks to Garret McNamarra and his great’n positive spirt Nazare' has been highly promoted worldwide"Â
As a local, you of course know Nazare' very well, so if you should recommend a "must se" to a new visitor, what would it be ? When visiting Nazare' I would recommend visiting the smaller and naturally wild beach Val Furado it has grand Canyon looking rock features, Paredes da Vitoria and its Lion sculpture rock designed by nature, Alcoba'a and Batalha with the magnificent Gothic Monasteries. Personally I have found lot's of inspiration in some of the classic photographers like Ansel Adams, Sally Mann, and Annie Leibovitz. Who has inspired you in your photography ? I have been inspired by many people, some famous, others are friends, but I really love some of the National Geographic photographers. Steve McCurry just to name one. Naturally we are always inspired by those with great visions.
Josë’
You have shot so many great surfing pictures from Nazare', especially of the McNamara crew, but have you ever had a chance to meet him in person and if so what can you tell your readers about him and his team ? Yes, I was so very fortunate to meet Mr.McNamara personally back 2011 with his friends Andrew Cotton and Hugo Vau. I was also very lucky to win a photo contest promoted at that time by Zon North Canyon. The prize was an autographed surfboard signed by the one and only Garret McNamara, Cotty and Vau. Most recently I have had the pleasure of meeting and shooting a dynamic duo, big wave surfer Sebastian Steudtner from Germany and Uk's Tom Butler. These guys can really surf big time, amazing to capture, so down to earth and friendly guy's.
I
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I have been to so many great restaurants in Nazare' and I really like the sea food, but if you should recommend a local restaurant or bar which one would it be ? - and what is your favorite local dish ?
There are so many cozy bars and wonderful restaurantes where you can eat well in Nazare' and at reasonable prices. I personally love seafood and when passing through Nazare' I enjoy stopping at Marisqueira AKI-D'EL- MAR for some fresh fried clams with garlic and lemon (Ame'ijoa a' bulha'o pato) or some real tasty cooked shrimp.
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Portugal is a very safe country. I can't recall anybody I know having their material stolen or car broken into
I had most of my camera gear stolen from my car last year in Peniche and last time I was in Nazare' I heard that a group of photographers from the US had some of their gear stolen from their car as well. Do you have any advise as a local, to photographers who visit for the first time, what should they be aware of if they want to avoid getting anything stolen? Portugal is a very safe country. I can't recall anybody I know having their material stolen or car broken into on day to day basis in this area. The problem is when there are major events going on then visitors are coming in from everywhere, and then the possibility of professional thieves also showing up are much bigger. So my advise is just to be double careful leaving their belonging in their cars during these big days.
I use Lightroom and Photo Shop in my work flow, what kind of software are you using while editing your fantastic shots Jose' ?
In regards to editing, sometimes when I am not satisfied with my pictures I use Photoshop just to enhance the colors.
I noticed that you are a Canon user (like that - me too!!) - somehow we photographers never seem to get enough equipment, so if you could choose what ever camera you wanted, which one would it be ? As you know, Photography is just a hobby for me and my equipment is very simple (CANON EOS600D with 2 lenses EFS 18-55mm and EFS 55-250mm) Â but I do hope one day I will have more time to be able to explore this strong passion of mine and invest in better and more professional equipment.
“
My biggest dream is to have enough money to travel the world and shoot Mother Nature's best masterpieces.Â
Well, It's been a real pleasure talking to you Jose' and thank you so much for you time and effort and for being a part of this special Nazare' edition. I have to ask you one last thing before I let you go. What is your photographic dreams for the future ? My biggest dream is to have enough money to travel the world and shoot 'Mother Nature's best masterpieces.Â
Violinist Nuno Santos
LENS
ANDRE
Special thanks to
BROTHER
Botelho Entrevista
Liliana Ferreira
I'm very grateful you agreed to let me do this interview with you. I have followed your work and amazing 'photographic eye' for a couple of years now, and the fact that you are a local photographer from Nazare', is really great.. Andre you also have a great instinct for timing a good shot and it clearly shows in your work.
S
o
So please tell me a little about your self. I know you work at Celeste (one of the best sea food restaurants I have ever visited) but what is your background, how old are you, how did you get involved with surf photography?
My name is Andre Botelho. I turned 31 in January, am from Nazare' and love photography, especially surf photography
I absolutely love the food at Celeste so since you work there I have to ask you which is your favorite dish? As you mentioned, I was raised by my aunt Celeste, and as such, have always had my favorite dishes cooked for me and am lucky enough to be the first to try all the tasty new treats she makes, which can be found on our menu. So I would say, any dish my aunt cooks, makes me happy!
Restaurant Celeste
A
re d n How many years have Celeste existed in Nazare'
and how many years have you been working there? Celeste is a family restaurant that has been around for over 60 years. The name, Celeste, is my oldest aunt, my dad's sister, who raised me as only a mother would! So, obviously, I was raised in this restaurant, learning to appreciate the best that the Portuguese cuisine has to offer, made better by the experience through generations, and with a special touch only my aunt Celeste are able to! I've been a waiter here, with my dad, since I finished High School, so more or less 13 years!
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North Canyon waves are difficult to access, and as such, the challenge remains!
We have experienced some very impressing waves so far in Nazare' - but do you believe that we have seen the biggest waves so far? No, definitely not! The biggest waves of the North beach have yet to be surfed. The North Canyon waves are difficult to access, and as such, the challenge remains! As a local from Nazare' what would you say has changed after the big wave cirque has arrived to Nazare' ? In my opinion, the perception of the Nazarenes and of Portuguese people in general, when it comes to tow in, has changed radically! I speak from my own experience, since I had never seen this radical new part of surfing before.
s A
As a local you must have experienced some serious Atlantic storms hitting the coast of Nazare' over the years. Have any of these storms created serious problems for the town of Nazare' ? Every year we are showered with winter storms and there have been serious damages in spite of early preparation by the population of Nazare'. At CELESTE, we have been flooded several times and we have seriously struggled to get the water removed after each of these winter storms!
Andre you have shot some really amazing surfing pic's from Nazare', and I have seen your camera, it's a Canon, not a very expensive model, but never the les you have a really good eye for capturing the right moment. So if you won the lottery tomorrow, what camera would you buy? I'm a humble photographer, and my equipment reflects that! But if I could choose, I would probably go for Canon 7D OR 6D
As a local, could you tell me little about your favorite places in Nazare' - and if you for example should recommend a 'must see' to new visitor in Nazare', what would it be ? Nazare' has plenty of 'must see' places, it all depends on the visitor. For nature lovers, there are fantastic trails to explore. For the urban visitor, Nazare' and it's downtown, have great reference points and work great in pictures for example if it's used as a background. Nazare' also offers a lot of great restaurants, hotels, pastry shops, and local businesses ready to be discovered. For those who like combining nature and culture, Nazare' has several 'must see' museums, exhibitions, churches, chapels, and of course the archetypal Portuguese beach! If that's not enough, this beach, filled with history, is very central to other destinations. We are 30 minutes from Obidos and Leiria, and about 1.5 hours from Lisbon. Personally, I simply can't highlight one particular spot, because Nazare' has been the center of my life for 31 years, and still surprises me even today.
You have published so manny great shots from Nazare' and I really enjoy following your photographic approach Andre, but what are your photographic dreams for the future? To tag along on a world surftour with all these great surfers, and to shoot the most glorious waves ever surfed, by these 'maniacs'!!
Through your work at Celeste and your photography, you have meet Garrett McNamara, Hugo Vau, Andrew Cotton, Eric Rebiere, Sebastian Steudtner and several other big wave profiles in Nazare', but who of all these 'watermen' do you know best? I'm lucky to have excellent relationship with all the athletes who visit Celeste and Nazare'. But of course, there are the ones who keep coming back and have become part of the family, as everyone knows. Such as : Garrett McNamara, Keali Mamala, our own Hugo Vau, Andrew Cotton, Sebastian Steudner, Tom Butler, Sylvio Mancusi, Carlos Burle, Scooby, Maya Gabeira, Nitzan Benhaim, Mexican  Coco Nogales and many others. Not to forget the great athlete and human being, Eric Rebiere. Nazare' misses his great sportsmanship and performance in our waves.
Thanks again for your time Andre it's been really great talking to you. One last thing, if any of our readers want to check out your amazing photographic work, where can they follow you? People can always find me here, at Restaurant Celeste. I look forward to meeting them and sharing my vision of Nazare'. My postcards can be purchased at the Restaurant, which are some of my best work, or you can access me virtually through Facebook or on Instagram.
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Well that's it for now, hope you've enjoyed the ride..! The next edition from Nazare’ is just 'around the corner'. It will be packed with more pic's, interviews, links, and other stuff. And feel free to share it with, locals from Nazare', other surfers, travel enthusiasts, friends and colleagues‌or just sign up directly for the next Nazare' edition - HERE.