June Southern-Hemi Madness Down South
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Images © 2012 Steve Bissell/SANTA BARBARA SURFER
BIRDLAND
Every time that I visit this quiet corner of the coastline, I am reminded of that old tune “Surfin’ Bird”, and it ain’t because it’s “for the birds”, but “de is everywhere, mon!” There’s always an airshow going on, and the Pelicans constantly strafe the few surfers in the lineup, and the surfers retaliate by launching “helicopter airs” — more for show than lethality, of course. All kinds of other sea birds are just looking for a meal and they always run around in little feathered gangs beating up and eating up any mini-crabs that they find. The sand forms the waves, and the waves pound the sand…sounds like modern family manners. Anyway, back to surfing!
On this day I noticed one very exceptional surfer I’d never seen before. He was constantly on the attack, and later I was told his name was Dillon Perillo. Just to let you know, I usually never know who is who out there, mainly because of the extremely backlit conditions, and also the seemingly omnipresent haze. It’s nearly impossible to identify a particular surfer in my cramped and dim eyepiece, except by the rider’s style perhaps. I only really figure out who is who after the fact, when I’m back at home looking over the shots, and can review them on my amazingly clear and sharp Macintosh monitor. Perillo appeared very hyper and energetic, constantly taking off on every possible wave — somehow always seeming to have enough kinetic energy in reserve to keep up his phrenetic pace. Nonetheless, he moved fluidly, and was really fun to watch. Always up and down and inside seemed to be his motto… I bet the ladies really like this guy…
I am truly fortunate to have such good friends as Shuey, who allows me to experience these great days, and of course “Da Lieb”, my abnormal photographer friend who just won’t let go of the trigger on his beloved Nikon, at least until his subjects wilt from the camera heat!! I love characters…
I hope that you enjoy the show.
—Steve Bissell
Watch the Slideshow
Music: The Trashmen “Surfin’ Bird”
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Stay tuned to Santa Barbara Surfer for continuing Summer Southern-Hemi Swell coverage!