In this surf world of ours, there are some who have stirred up lasting change. The Witzig Brothers are among that group. They have absolutely changed the ways in which surf media evolved throughout the years. John’s main contribution was his creation of Tracks Magazine and Paul’s were his films – his first cameras and lenses he acquired from Bruce Brown after filming the Australian parts of The Endless Summer.
John and Paul Witzig’s films, photos and magazine articles all contributed to this aberration from the then-norm. Phil Jarratt contests that the two documented a lengthy period of surfing history way better than anyone else. Kai Neville agrees that their work was way cooler than what’s happening these days – quite a claim from one of the present day’s best filmmakers. Legend Bob McTavish agrees with an animated rhyme you have to watch to appreciate.
This is one history lesson that lends depth not often covered. The Witzigs are legends in surf history and to understand their evolution, both personally and professionally, is to understand, at least in part, the evolution of surf media, Australian-American surf relations, and a golden era of surfing.
See 15 standout images from John Witzig’s photography career here.
