Internationally renowned and multiple award winning photographer, Fred Pompermayer has been dedicated to shooting Big Wave Surfing and Adventure Sports for the last 20 years. Always seeking unique angles and exciting challenges, Fred has expanded his lenswork to include rock climbing, mountain biking and any other passion that gets the blood flowing. Being based in El Segundo, California allows Fred easy access for last minute travel to all parts of the globe. Fred's photos have appeared on renowned magazine covers, in books including the Guiness Book of World Records, television, movies and advertising worldwide.
SHOP THE KIT
When you’re under‑slept and over‑caffeinated and the conditions finally turn on, what flips you from “tired” to “locked in” behind the lens?
Its funny, the day of a big swell I'm so amped, my mind goes in to a different mode. I can spend the whole day on the ski without much food or drink. Its the adrenaline that gets me going.
What’s the most dangerous or uncomfortable spot you’ve put yourself in for a shot—and was it worth it?
There have been a lot of crazy moments over the years. But ultimately, I take calculated risks. In December 2024, in the biggest swell that was ever recorded in Mavericks, it was a really scary day to be driving my ski and shooting. When I saw Peter Mel trying to pull this gigantic barrel, I put myself very close in the action at Mavericks and that photo ended up winning the Photo of the Year Award at the Big Wave Awards. It was definitely worth putting myself to get that kind of photo!
What’s one image you missed that still haunts you, and what did it teach you about staying ready?
I can’t recall a photo that i missed but there are definitely places and swells. I’ve missed over the years that I wish I were there!
What’s the most ridiculous thing you’ve done or said to get a shot—awkward fall, bad call, or “did that really just happen?” story?
Going to TodosSantos from San Diego on a small boat during giant swell, when all the harbors were closed. When we were coming back in the pitch black l the swell was getting even bigger and the strong wind was ridiculous. It turned out to be a nightmare, and we had to bail to the shore in Mexican cartel area. As we were trying to get all the equipment from the boat to the shore, the Mexican military rolled up on us and we had to deal with two hours of interrogation. It ended up being at 24 hour mission back to my truck.
When everything goes sideways in your world, what does “composed in the chaos” actually look like for you?
Chasing big waves is the definition of composed in chaos! You have to think on your feet and when everything is going sideways you have to keep your head straight. Its part of the game.
When everything goes sideways in your world, what does “composed in the chaos” actually look like for you?
Chasing big waves is the definition of composed in chaos! You have to think on your feet and when everything is going sideways you have to keep your head straight. Its part of the game.
What’s the gnarliest day you’ve ever had in your element, and how did it change the way you operate now?
Getting stuck in the fog with no visibility in a high surf advisory was an intense moments, so I always keep alert on it and have my gps navigation ready. What do you chase more: the perfect result or the feeling you get getting there—and why? The perfect the result is my goal. Im very happy when i can capture the power of the moment.