Through the course of time, our surfing community has seen a lot of changes. New technology, in all aspects of this lifestyle we love, has totally given way to new ideas.
On November 30, 2013 at the Great Pacific Instameet, one of those ideas which was not possible in our surfing community thirty years ago, was experienced. Hosted by world class photographer Chris Burkard, Rosewood Creative’s Digital and Creative Director Matt Bauer and Social Media and Network guru Mrsgrubby, this opportunity gave the chance to have some fun and hang out with some amazing and inspirational artists. “Instameets, in general, are a chance to connect Instagrammers with their followers,” says Chris Burkard. “It’s a great opportunity to connect likeminded people in one place and give them a chance to explore two of their passions – photography and Instagram.”
The scene at the Instameet was epic. A crowd socializing on the beach, pier jumping and a swarm of ocean lovers creating great moments in the sea with new friends. Chris aimed to make the ocean the focus of the meet. Whether you were bodysurfing, on the pier, or wading around, his goal was to create the unique opportunity to meet in the water. On hand were Iphone housings, contributed by Water Shot Housing, a new product that has allowed the average Iphone user to break boundaries with their phone. Instagrammers got a chance to test this product for themselves at the meet to indulge in the art of water photography.
When I stop to think that events like this are made possible through social media, it blows my mind. These channels have made it possible for the entire world to become involved in your work. Chris Burkard adds, “a while ago the only way your photos could be seen was through a magazine. Now I can post a photo on my social media channels and it will probably get more views than it would anywhere else. It’s a wild progression.” There is abundant potential for using social media as serious work and a whole new door into creativity that comes with the fun you have doing it. This meet connected both of those ideas to make an event gravitating towards the new generation. Keep your eyes peeled for more Instameets coming up! Big thanks to Water Shot Housing for supplying the housings at the event and to the hosts that made it happen, Matt Bauer, Chris Burkard and Mrsgrubby. Also, big thanks to everyone that came to the meet!
