We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Tommy Pierucki. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Tommy below.

Tommy, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

My journey from the structured corridors of Uber to the unpredictable waves of surf photography was a leap into the unknown, filled with risks and rewards. At Uber, life was a series of routines and defined paths, but deep down, I yearned for something more — something that resonated with my passion and spirit. That’s when the call of the ocean became irresistible.

Transitioning to surf photography was more than a career change; it was a life choice. It meant swapping the security of a regular paycheck for the uncertainty of chasing the perfect shot. It involved adapting to the whims of nature, where each wave and weather pattern could make or break a session. The risks were real – financial instability, physical dangers in the ocean, and the daunting task of establishing a name in a niche, competitive field. Yet, the pull of the sea was stronger than any apprehension. Each photograph captured not just a surfer and a wave, but a moment of truth, a dance with nature that was infinitely more fulfilling than any boardroom success.

In this new chapter, every risk brings an opportunity for unparalleled creativity and connection with the environment. Surf photography is not just a job; it’s a testament to following one’s passion, embracing uncertainty, and finding joy in the journey, not just the destination.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m Tommy Pierucki, and my journey into the world of surf photography began in a rather unconventional way. My initial career path had me at the heart of the corporate world, working with Uber. It was a world of routines and predictability, but something crucial was missing – a sense of personal fulfillment and creative expression.

My passion for surfing has always been a part of who I am. I remember my first wave in Waikiki as a tourist back in 2001. This lit the fire and stoke. This passion eventually led me to make a bold decision: I left my secure job at Uber to dive into the unpredictable yet exhilarating world of professional surf photography. It was a leap of faith, transitioning from the security of a regular paycheck to the dynamic and often uncertain world of owning a small business.

In my current role, I specialize in covering longboard surfing, mostly in Waikiki. What sets my work apart is I shoot most of my photographs from the water swimming with my camera. My services/products cater to those that love surfing, Hawaii, longboarding, and Waikiki, solving creating in-water content issues.

One aspect that I believe truly distinguishes me in this field is my unique style, composition and colors. You can look at a handful of shots and know which one was shot by me. This has not only helped me stand out but also enabled me to deliver content that resonate deeply with my clients.

I am most proud of being a WSL photographer in 2024. It encapsulates what I strive for – shooting excellence in longboarding around the world at its finest.

For potential clients, followers, or fans, I want them to know that my artwork is more than just a business – it’s a a journey towards something meaningful. Whether you’re looking for specific services/products or just wish to explore more about surfing, I invite you to join me on this incredible journey.

In conclusion, Tommy Pierucki stands for the joy of surfing. As I continue to grow and evolve, my commitment to quality, creativity, and client satisfaction remains unwavering. I’m excited for what the future holds and look forward to doing more of what I love!

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist and a creative professional in surf photography lies in the sheer freedom and diversity of experiences it brings into my life. Firstly, there’s the creative freedom – the ability to capture the world as I see it, to tell stories through my lens, and to express emotions and narratives that resonate with others. This freedom is a stark contrast to the constraints of a typical 9-5 job. It’s not just about setting my own schedule, but also about having the liberty to pursue my vision and creativity in its purest form.

Then, there’s the aspect of travel and exploration. My journey takes me to some of the most breathtaking surfing destinations in the world. Each location is not just a backdrop for my work but a character in itself. The ever-changing landscapes, the play of light on the water, the unique personalities of different waves – every element adds a new dimension to my work.

Meeting new people is another enriching experience. Each individual I encounter – surfers, locals, fellow creatives – brings a new perspective, a story, or a piece of wisdom that enriches my understanding of the world. These interactions often lead to lasting bonds, forged over shared experiences and a mutual love for the ocean and surfing.

And of course, there’s the exhilaration of great waves and great food. Surfing isn’t just a sport; it’s a lifestyle that encompasses the thrill of riding the perfect wave and the cultural experiences that surround it, including local cuisines. Sharing these moments, whether it’s on the waves or over a meal, creates content that’s not only visually compelling but also deeply personal.

The bonds formed over the content we create are perhaps the most fulfilling. Each piece of work is a collaboration of experiences, moments, and emotions. It’s a collective narrative that binds me with my subjects and my audience.

In summary, leaving behind a conventional career path to embrace a life of creativity and exploration has been the best decision I’ve ever made. The freedom to do what I love, on my own terms, and the richness of experiences it brings, makes every day a rewarding adventure.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

At the core of my creative journey is a desire to leave a lasting legacy, one that transcends the boundaries of time and continues to inspire long after I’ve clicked my last photo. My goal is not just to capture moments but to create memories that resonate with depth, emotion, and authenticity.

I want to be remembered as someone who didn’t just observe the world, but who truly saw it – in all its raw, unfiltered beauty. I aim to be an artist who used his lens to reveal the untold stories of the ocean and the people who dance with its waves. My photographs should speak not only of the exhilarating moments of triumph on the surf but also of the quiet, introspective instances that often go unnoticed.

In essence, I want my work to be a bridge between the fleeting present and the eternal – a collection of works that not only depict the beauty and thrill of surfing but also capture the spirit of the ocean and the human connection to it. This connection is profound and universal, and if my photography can make people feel it, resonate with it, then I believe I will have achieved my mission.

Ultimately, my goal is to leave behind a body of work that stands as a testament to the art of surf photography, an enduring source of inspiration and wonder for future generations. It’s about creating a legacy that celebrates not just the sport, but the lifestyle, culture, and the timeless dance between humans and the sea.

Contact Info:

• Website: tommypierucki.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/tommypierucki
• Facebook: facebook.com/tommypierucki
• Linkedin: linkedin.com/tommypierucki
• Twitter: twitter.com/tommypierucki

Image Credits
All images shot by Tommy Pierucki.