I recently traveled to Indonesia for the first time, staying right in front of HT’s (Hollow Tree’s or Lance’s Right) – a perfect setup for any avid surfer dreaming of tropical waves.
The original plan was to leave the camera behind and just surf with my friends, but as the trip unfolded, I found myself naturally gravitating toward photography instead. Something about the light, the energy of the waves, and the talented locals made it impossible not to shoot. The warm air and crystal-clear waters were a welcomed change from the rainy, cold-water sessions back in Canada, giving me time to recharge and reflect for the upcoming storm season at home.
While I didn’t surf as much as I thought I would, capturing the experience through my lens felt just as rewarding. The trip became a perfect mix of relaxation, creativity, and a reminder of why I love what I do. Enjoy the photos of, Michael Darling, Austen Sweetin, and more friends made along the way.
Marcus Paladino is photographer based out of Tofino, British Columbia who regularly contributes to The Inertia. You can find more of his work here.
