Surf Photography &
Longboarding Course
'The Surf Storytellers'
June 5th - 7th
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3 Days Learning New Skills With The Experts In Cornwall
Our Surf & Photography Retreat offers a rare opportunity to bring together advanced longboarders and photographers in a collaborative environment, working alongside professional photogrpahy and Wavelength Magazine Editor Bella Bunce.
Over the course of an unforgettable weekend, you’ll dive into the art of surf photography, refining your skills while capturing the beauty, movement and spirit of longboarding.
Meanwhile, surfers will gain a deeper understanding of working alongside in-water photographers, learning how to position themselves in the lineup and explore new techniques to elevate their surfing.
We’ll spend the weekend based at Melancoose in Newquay, staying camp-out style in a beautifully converted barn surrounded by Cornish countryside. Just a short drive from the coast, it’s the perfect setting to unwind, share ideas, and connect after long sessions in the ocean - and did we mention the sauna?
Together, we’ll create beautiful surf imagery, exchange knowledge, and enjoy a weekend built around community, creativity and the shared love of the sea.
Whether you’re an experienced longboarder or an aspiring surf photographer, you’ll leave the weekend inspired, energised, with a collection of beautiful surf images!
Let Us Show You The
Art of Surf Photography
Longboarders
(four spaces)
Take your longboarding to the next level with an exciting course designed for surfers who want to refine their skills while learning how to work alongside surf photographers in the water.
This unique experience combines high-level coaching with creative collaboration, helping you improve your technique while capturing incredible images of your surfing. It’s the perfect opportunity to elevate your style, build confidence in the lineup and walk away with stunning shots of your waves!
Collaborative Surf Sessions
You’ll build a collection of beautiful images perfect for sharing or keeping as memories of your progression. By the end of the course, you’ll feel confident surfing and collaborating with photographers.
Video Analysis
Accelerate your progress with in-depth video analysis and recieve technical feedback. Watch your waves back with supportive experts to break down your technique and footwork. Small adjustments can make a big difference and this process helps you refine your style and unlock the next level of your longboarding.
Capturing the Perfect Shot
Discover how to position yourself on the wave to create dynamic images. Learn how to read the moment, understand where the photographer is in the water and time your movements so your best turns, cross-steps and nose rides are perfectly captured.
Find Surf Photographers
Learn how to connect with surf photographers and build strong creative partnerships. Understand what makes a great collaboration, from aligning expectations to communicating effectively during sessions, so you can consistently create incredible surf imagery together.
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Photographer's
(four spaces)
Developed for aspiring photographers eager to dive into the dynamic world of surf/water photography. This workshop offers a hands-on experience that will enhance your skills and confidence while shooting in and around the water.
Learn How to Shoot in Water
Master water photography with Bella’s guidance, from positioning to timing and capturing dynamic shots. Leave the weekend with stunning images and the confidence to pursue your passion!
Finding Longboarders to Shoot
Connect with advanced longboarders who are eager to collaborate and be photographed. Learn how to communicate effectively with surfers to get the best possible shots while building professional relationships in the surf community.
A Hands-On Guide to Setting Up &
Maintaining Your Water Housing
Learn to confidently assemble your water housing ensuring a secure, leak-free experience every time you hit the water. Discover expert techniques for post-session care and cleaning, preserving the longevity of your gear so you can keep on shooting for years to come!
On-Land Surf & Portrait Photography
Explore the art of capturing on-land portraits of surfers, enhancing your storytelling ability and understanding of natural light. This segment will help you develop your creative eye and showcase the personalities behind the surf.
Learn Surf Photography Etiquette
In this workshop, you'll uncover the essential do's and don'ts of surf photography. Gain valuable insights on how to practice your skills with care, honouring the individuals your working with, the ocean and the community of ocean photographers around you.
*Camera Equipment, fins and Housings provided, but please bring your own if you have it.
**Memory cards, hard drives & laptops not provided.
What's Included
- 2 Nights Uncdercover Camping Accommodation At Melancoose,
Newquay, Cornwall
- Friday Evening Welcome Meal
- Saturday Evening Private Catering
- Saturday Sauna, Cold Plunge, Hot Tub & Fire Pit
- Tea & Coffee Facilities
- Video / Photo Package
- Gather & Glide Goody Bag
The Surfers
- Surf Photography Safety
- Useful Mindsets
- How To Work With In Water Photographers
- Loosening The Stance & Turning
- Stalling & What That Means
- Finding The Right Part Of The Wave
- The Mechanics Of Cross Stepping
- Learn To Anticipate Sections
- Hang 5 & Hang 10 Theory
- Video Analysis
- 1:1 Goal Setting
*Longboard hire available if needed
The Photographers
- Surf Photography Safety
- Camera, Housing & Fins
- From Start To Finish Gear Set Up & Clean Down
- How To Work With Light On Land & In The Waves
- Finding The Correct Position To Shoot In The Water
- What Gear Is Right For You
- Finding Your Individual Creative Flare
- The Do's & Don’ts In Surf World
- How To Respect Nature & Those Around You
- Finding Your Passion
- Finding Your Surfer Muse
*This course is not about how to pitch to brands, or how to make money. However, will touch upon some key elements of what do’s and don’ts are important to remember in the surf industry.
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“Surf photography keeps me fully connected to all the elements around me.”
Bella Rose Bunce
2 Days Of Learning
Learn from the experts, develop new skills in a supportive environment in and out of the water with our structured course content in a small group.
We Are Mobile
We are a short drive away from Watergate Bay, however we have the option of changing location to find the best waves in the area for shooting.
On Land & In Water Exercises
We have developed this course to include everything you need to know to take your surf or photography skills to the next level, including land based theory and in water exercises to allow you the space to experiment and to let you get creative with likeminded individuals!
Meet The Experts
Bella Bunce
Professional Surf Photographer / Editor At Wavelength Magazine
Course Leader
Bella is a talented surf photographer and the editor of Wavelength Magazine, with years of professional experience capturing the essence of the surf community. From stunning cover shots to dynamic films showcased at film festivals, Bella’s work celebrates the vibrant world of surfing.
Bella brings a realistic and insightful perspective to the industry, blending her passion for photography with a deep understanding of the surf lifestyle. Bella’s playful spirit shines through in her work, as she loves connecting with surfers and fellow creatives alike.
Whether she’s behind the lens or curating compelling stories in the magazine, Bella’s fun and approachable demeanour makes her a beloved figure in the surf community.
We are thrilled to be collaborating with Bella and she cant wait to show you the tricks of the trade so you can develop your style!
Lola Bleakley
Guest Longboard Coach
Lola Bleakley grew up surrounded by the ocean and a strong surfing culture in Sennen, Cornwall.
She has a deep connection to the sea and has natural style on a longboard and has quickly become one of the most exciting young surfers in the UK. Lola is also a keen artist, soon to study Fine Art at Falmouth University.
Lola has already achieved major success in competition, representing the UK internationally and becoming the English and British U18 Junior Longboard Champion and continues to represent the next generation of British longboarding.
Lola brings her love for surfing, creativity and the ocean community to everything she does, helping to create an inspiring and welcoming space for everyone who shares a passion for the sea.
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Allannah Brown
Longboard Video Coach
Course Leader
Meet Allannah, a seasoned surf coach with 18 years of experience, who has traveled the globe honing her skills in both shortboarding and longboarding.
Born and raised in Cornwall, she’s a true queen of stoke, known for her infectious passion for the ocean.
Allannah’s technical expertise is matched only by her ability to break down complex concepts into easy-to-understand theory.
Her insights into growing up and learning to surf in Cornwall provide a rich backdrop for her coaching, making her sessions not only informative but also deeply relatable.
Its her goal to empower others and to put the joy back into surfing!
2 Nights Accomodation Included
Learning With
No Pressure
1:1 Goal Setting
Only 8 People
Per Course
Minimum Course Requirements
Longboarders:
-
Confident surfing green waves
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Comfortable turning a longboard left & right along the open face
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Have a good understanding of surfing etiquette and safety
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Can comfortably redirect the board and change direction if needed
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Comfortable surfing waist - shoulder high waves (2 - 4ft)
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Can paddle out back
Photographers:
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Comfortable swimming through waves and being in open water in waves 2 - 4ft
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Comfortable swimming out of depth
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A passion or interest in photography (no experience needed)
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Please bring your own memory cards, laptops and hard drives, all other equipment is provided
If your wondering if this is the right course for you or have any questions drop us a message
The Accomodation
Our retreat accommodation is a beautifully converted barn at Melancoose, set in peaceful Cornish countryside. It’s shared, camp-out style accommodation - think cozy sleepover vibes with mattresses laid out in the open barn space. Simple, warm and communal, it’s the perfect setting to unwind, connect and enjoy the retreat together.
What’s included:
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2 Nights shared accomodation (Fri & Sat)
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Sauna, cold plunge & fire pit Saturday evening
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Drinks, tea & coffee facilites
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Light breakfast (Sat & Sun)
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Showers & toilets
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Fridges & food storage
What’s not included:
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Bedding
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Sleeping mat / camping bed
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Lunch / snacks
*If you can't get to us on Friday, join us on Saturday morning for the first day of the course
**Feel free to book alternative accommodation in the local area if are looking for something private, happy to send recommendations
Testimonials
'' Bella led a really insightful course on surf photography, sharing lots of best practices to keep your kit functional and how to make the surfer feel comfortable in front of the camera. It was really enjoyable and she given me the confidence to get out there and practice! ''
- Charlie / photographer
'' Their relaxed yet incredibly professional approach, the workshops, the video analysis & all the extra touches! An awesome team, and best of all, Allannah helped break down any negative connections around my surfing with her infectious positivity! ''
- Jojo / Surfer
''I was lucky to get a spot on one of the recent surf photography courses with Gather & Glide and Bella Rose Bunce. Having followed Bella’s work for a long time - to say I was excited was an understatement!
The weekend was all I hoped and more, with a group of brilliant women, everyone was made to feel welcome and included.
Bella was incredibly generous with her technical knowledge and experience of the industry, and so much fun to spend time with.
Learning surf photography through the female lens was also refreshing. I’d do one of her courses again in a heartbeat.
A brilliant experience and highly recommend!''
- Jo / photographer
