Shooting Teahupo’o, One of the World’s Deadliest Waves

“These guys are basically riding tsunamis. It’s an unbelievably challenging wave. The coral, you even think about touching it, and you get stabbed. Most surfers don’t have the skill. This could be the event of the Olympics. It’s probably going to be the most dangerous Olympic event ever, because you can friggin’ die out there.”

That’s veteran surf journalist, Ben Marcus, setting the scene for the new film about Teahupo’o, Tahiti aptly titled End of the Road . (Check out the trailer above.) And while Chopes is the primary subject of the film, the supporting role goes to lauded surf photographer, Ben Thouard, who has dedicated his life and career to documenting the notorious lefthander.

With a distinct eye, and unparalleled underwater shots, Thouard’s imagery is iconic, gallery-worthy works of art. And so, that’s what’s happening. In conjunction with the film, a selection of Thouard’s shots will be featured at Dirk Braun Gallery in Malibu, California from July 12th – August 9th. Just in time for the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Speaking of which, Thouard will be the only photographer in the water during the Olympics, which will go down between July 27th – August 4th at Teahupo’o. And deservedly so. He’s got the perfect résumé for the job.

Related: Olympic Surfing 101: Everything to Know Before Paris 2024

Per the press release for the gallery opening:

“Born in Toulon, located in the picturesque south of France, Ben’s affinity with the sea was nurtured from a young age. Growing up in a family of six, his older brothers introduced him to surfing, igniting a passion that would shape his life. Surfing quickly became more than a hobby—it became a way of life. He has been living In Tahiti since 2008.

“As he honed his surfing skills, Ben also discovered a talent for art and began attending painting classes. Unsurprisingly, his subject of choice was the ocean and its dynamic waves. This dual passion for surfing and art has not only defined Ben’s personal journey, but has also greatly influenced his professional career as an oceanic underwater surf photographer.”

Stay tuned for the gallery opening and film debut at Dirk Braun Gallery in Malibu, coming July 12th – August 9th.

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