Russ is one of the worlds leading surf photographers, whose ocean images are celebrated for simultaneously implying the cruelty and majesty of the sea. He has squinted down the lens at an intriguing mix of subjects over the years and he draws on these diverse perspectives to anchor himself as an incredibly worldly Ambassador.
Russ is the fullest embodiment of the water element. His life and work all revolve around the ocean and he describes the great sea as a place that unquestionably allows you to be present, especially in powerful waves, because your mind cannot wander without consequences.
Death can be one of these consequences, and something Russ has had much exposure to in his 19 years as a Fire Fighter. We are all shaped by our lived experiences, and his journey with seeing the reality of death at the hands of fire shaped and propelled Russ to savor life to the fullest, embodying a belief that you can do anything if you are dedicated and put your mind to it.
In addition to Russ’ devotion to the ocean, he takes the apnea teachings into the desert through his charity The Desert Lights Foundation, where he incorporates quality breathing tips into his connection with children, seeing instant benefits for the students. Russ enhances the lives of disadvantaged children by passing the wisdom he has gained from the ocean and his courage to push beyond his own personal boundaries and comforts in his surf photography.
To keep Russ brimming with Lifeforce you can find him on solo immersions in the ocean with his camera, travelling far and wide to be enriched by varied landscapes, and taking the time to meet and honour inspirational people from all walks of life.
For Russ, “being your own dolphin’ means activating your flow state to be instinctively in tune with the ocean, your environment, and all surroundings. Russ lives this, practices this and is a living legend when it comes to understanding the depths of the ocean and how we can harness its teachings to empower us to live purposeful, flowing and fulfilling lives.
