North East Winter Cold Water Surf Photography Contest
Thank you for your interest in these surf photos!
These images were captured as part of the North East Winter Cold Water Surf Photography Contest, a competition celebrating the raw beauty and intensity of winter surf from North Carolina to Maine. The challenge? Photographers could only submit shots taken during the winter months, pushing their skills and endurance to the limit in the frigid waters and winds of the North Atlantic.
Hundreds of photographers entered, with many submissions coming from Long Island and New Jersey beaches—renowned for their powerful winter swells. Finalist images were printed and displayed at an awards ceremony, where winners and runners-up were announced across multiple categories.
Photo Categories & Judging
Entries were judged based on:
✅ How the shot was captured – from land or in the water
✅ Subject matter – featuring a surfer or an empty wave
✅ Creativity & Grit – showcasing the raw power and beauty of cold-water surfing
✅ Technical Merit – sharpness, exposure, and overall execution
✅ Composition – framing, perspective, and storytelling
Most of the photographs featured here were taken between 2019 and 2020 and represent the semi-finalists and winners of the contest. Each image is a testament to the dedication of photographers who braved the elements to capture the spirit of winter surfing.
Enjoy the gallery and immerse yourself in the artistry of cold-water surf photography!