The ocean, with its untamed energy and mesmerizing beauty, has long captivated artists, each seeking to capture its raw power and endless mysteries. For Clark Little, a surfer from Hawaii turned renowned ocean photographer, this allure of the ocean wasn’t just a passing interest—it became his life’s work. His breathtaking photographs, taken from inside powerful waves, have brought him worldwide acclaim. And what’s perhaps most surprising is that his journey into ocean photography began with a simple wish from his wife.
Clark Little’s path to becoming a famous ocean photographer is a story of passion, courage, and dedication. Born in California in 1968, Clark’s life took a transformative turn just two years later when his family moved to the North Shore of Oahu in Hawaii. The North Shore is a place where surfing isn’t just a sport; it’s a way of life. Growing up here, Clark developed a close connection to the ocean from a young age. By his twenties, he was already a skilled surfer and one of the early pioneers riding the challenging shorebreaks of Waimea Bay. Known for his bravery in the water, Clark had an eye for waves and an understanding of the ocean’s power that would later serve him well in his photography career.
But it wasn’t until 2007 that his love for the ocean transformed from a hobby into an artistic calling. One day, his wife mentioned she wanted a photo of the ocean to hang in their bedroom, a piece that would bring the beauty of the ocean into their home. As she looked at art options, Clark realized that he could take such photos himself. Inspired by this idea, he purchased a waterproof camera and began photographing waves, capturing the beauty he had seen up close for years.
Clark’s first images quickly gained attention, not just locally but internationally. His unique shorebreak photos began circulating, reaching exhibitions across continents, from Japan to Spain, Canada to Brazil. What made Clark’s photos so captivating was the perspective—he didn’t just stand on the beach; he plunged into the heart of the waves, photographing them from the inside. This approach brought viewers right into the center of the ocean’s power, showing the wave’s curvature, its rushing foam, and the intense moment when it crashes toward the shore. His images were unlike anything else, inviting audiences to experience the ocean’s force and beauty up close, as if they were riding the waves themselves.
Clark’s signature shots—what he calls shorebreak photographs—showcase the intense meeting point of wave and sand. These photos capture the split-second when a wall of water barrels toward the shore, sometimes towering several feet above the ground, before it collapses with incredible force. The energy in each shot is palpable, and Clark’s skill at positioning himself in precisely the right spot, even in turbulent water, is what makes these images so remarkable. He explains that to get the perfect shot, everything must align—the backdrop, the rocks, the beach, the sunlight streaming in at the right angle. This synergy of elements transforms a simple wave into a work of art, full of drama and natural beauty.
Being a shorebreak photographer comes with its challenges, and Clark often faces the danger of being caught in waves’ powerful grip. Yet, it’s this very thrill that drives him. “It’s raw and intense,” he shares, “but there’s a beauty in capturing something that’s there for only a moment.” His dedication to this form of art has opened up a new way of experiencing ocean photography, with his work offering a perspective few dare to explore.
Over the years, Clark’s career has grown, allowing him to turn his passion into a full-fledged profession. His photographs have been featured in numerous international exhibitions, bringing a piece of Hawaii’s ocean magic to people around the world. In 2011, he opened the Clark Little Gallery Haleiwa, located in his hometown on the North Shore, not far from where he surfs and photographs. The gallery allows visitors to view his work up close, and it has become a destination for those drawn to the power of the ocean. Alongside his gallery, Clark has published three art books, each showcasing his journey and growth as a photographer.
In 2016, a documentary titled SHOREBREAK: The Clark Little Story was released, giving audiences an intimate look at the man behind the lens and the dedication required to capture his extraordinary images. The film explores his daily experiences, showing the rigorous preparation, courage, and skill involved in his work. Through this documentary, fans of his photography gain insight into the passion that drives him and the unique challenges he faces with each shot.
Clark’s story is a reminder of how unexpected life paths can be, sparked by a single idea or wish. What began as his wife’s request for a beautiful ocean photo turned into a career that has brought Clark fulfillment, recognition, and an opportunity to share his love for the ocean with the world. He frequently reflects on how grateful he is to have discovered a way to combine his love for surfing with his art, capturing scenes that reflect the ocean’s powerful allure.
Each of Clark’s photos serves as a tribute to the ocean’s beauty, a reminder of the delicate balance between its strength and serenity. Through his images, Clark has found a way to connect with people, allowing them to see the ocean as he does—a dynamic, breathtaking force that, for all its danger, holds an irresistible charm.