Shawn Parkin: 2012 Grant Winner! Shawn was a finalist a couple years ago. He took a year off work to travel the world and shoot photos. Some of his adventures are in this year’s slideshow. He shot a wide variety of surfing, not just shortboarding, and with angles and looks that have a completely virgin appeal.

Newcomer Sarah Lee: She brought a fresh look of surf minimalism to this year competition. Her photography is pure innocence. It’s really broken down into the simplest form which is super refreshing these days.

Ryan Craig: He’s shooting water photography at locations that a lot of people would feel really uncomfortable shooting. He also posseses the talent to showcase popular destinations in a whole new light, which is a very difficult thing to do. One of the most driven surf photographers out of this batch.

Mike Smolowe: Technically a very strong performance. His lifestyle images, landscapes, and scenic photography are his real strengths. One of the strongest in the focus and composition realm — he really uses it to his advantage. He hasn’t traveled as much as some of the other finalist, but here he really makes the most out of the surf that he gets to shoot. A very solid up and coming photographer.

Matt Kurvin: Most surf photographers are looking to chase waves. Matt chooses a very unique angle in chasing color. The spirit of his slideshow was probably the most thought out. A great choice of music, pacing and theme.