Follow the Light: Honoring Emerging Surf Photographers

Kalani cummins/@kalanicphotos 2022 Follow The Light Winner

Follow the Light is a globally recognized photography grant and award program that celebrates the next generation of surf photographers. Now proudly presented under Coast Film Foundation, Follow the Light continues its legacy of discovering and supporting young photographers who capture the beauty, culture, and spirit of surfing.

Shortly after legendary surf photographer and 30-year photo editor of SURFING Magazine Larry "Flame" Moore's passing in 2005, a group of friends and family formed the Follow the Light Foundation to ensure that Flame's legacy of passionately supporting up-and-coming surf photographers continued. Each year, talented photographers from around the world submit their work to be considered for the prestigious Follow the Light Award, which brings together a community of surf media and industry professionals, athletes, and friends to recognize the excellence of the next generation of surf photographers.

OUR MISSION

We aim to empower emerging surf photographers by providing:

  • Career-defining opportunities, including exposure to industry leaders and global audiences.

  • A generous grant to the top 5 photographers to help winners pursue their creative vision.

  • Mentorship and networking with some of the most respected names in surf culture, photography, and media.

The Ceremony at Coast Film & Music Festival

The Follow the Light Award Ceremony takes place each fall during the Coast Film & Music Festival in Laguna Beach, California. The evening showcases the finalists’ work on the big screen, alongside heartfelt storytelling and tributes to surf culture’s rich history. It’s an unforgettable night celebrating creativity, community, and talented young photographers on the rise.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

  • Photographers (aged 18 - 26) – Submit your portfolio and share your vision. $25 application fee. 2025 Submissions are now open!

  • Fans & Supporters – Join us for the awards ceremony to experience the magic of surf photography.

  • Partners & Sponsors – Help support emerging creatives and keep this legacy alive.

Previous Follow The Light Recipients

2006 Chris Burkard | @chrisburkard

2007 Matthew Clark | @mattclarkoceanimagery

2008 Todd Glaser | @toddglaser

2009 Ray Collins | @raycollinsphoto

2010 Morgan Maassen | @morganmaassen

2011 Duncan MacFarlane | @duncanm

2012 Shawn Parkin | @shawnparkin

2013 Trevor Moran | @tallteef

2014 Ryan Craig | @chachfiles

2015 Seth de Roulet | @seth_de_roulet

2019 Nick Green | @nickgreenphoto

2020 Paul Greene | @paulgreene

2022 Kalani Cummins | @kalanicphotos

2023 Oscar Hetherington | @oscar.hetherington