Leroy Grannis: surfing and photography as a unique passion

The world of surfing has lost one of its most memorable icons. Photographer LeRoy Grannis passed away at the age of 93.

Grannis captured the best surf pictures of the Golden Age of the 1960s and '70s. He got in touch with surfing when he was 14 but only picked a camera when he reached 42.

LeRoy built a darkroom in his garage and began his remarkable work with the Hermosa Beach surfers.

Californian surfers owe him incredible images of the Beach Boys era, so he is considered one of the most important surfing documentarians ever.

LeRoy and his inseparable wife, Katie, were always a friendly couple.

The New York Times called him the "godfather of surf photography", as his art spread through the world in exhibitions, surf magazines, and documentaries.

A Passionate Surf Photographer

The iconic photographer had the feeling to capture the true surfing moments of sunshine in California.

The girls, the boys, the waves, the surrounding towns, the cars, the beaches, the legends, the smiles, and the breathtaking rides were all paused by the eyes of the master.

The best of LeRoy's works was released by German publisher Taschen Books: "Leroy Grannis - Surf Photography of the 1960s and 1970s" is an incredible masterpiece.

We all also owe him the development of the first rubber-lined box, which enabled him to change films in the lineup.

LeRoy Grannis will forever remain in surfer's hearts for his passion and dedication to surfing and photography.

Discover the best surf photographers in the world.

Top Stories

Kelly Slater's entrepreneurial journey has always been relatively kept under the radar, with surfing doing most of his talking. Let's take a look at how the Floridian planned the move from waves to the boardroom.

Jack Robinson and Gabriela Bryan have taken out the 2024 Margaret River Pro.

Geoff McCoy, one of the world's most innovative and creative surfboard shapers, passed away at home in Byron Bay, Australia, at the age of 79 after complications following a heart attack.

Surpoel, Europe's first indoor wave pool, is already pumping waves. The Dutch structure, powered by 24/7 Waves, has entered the testing stage.