Photolyfe: Sage Burgess

Welcome to PhotoLyfe, in which Stab’s favourite photographers answer questions about themselves with their own images. It’s that old picture-tells-a-thousand-words chestnut but with more colour and pop. It’s a way to cut out all the bullshit. It’s like jacking into the main vein of those who supply us with exquisite surf imagery every day. Give thanks by studying each image with a more careful eye than ever!

Floating out in the Fijian atolls Stab recently had the privilege of an introduction to Miss Sage Burgess. She was posted in the channel, lens in hand, pointed in the direction of Torren Martyn and her man, Tyler Warren. With an exceptional eye for worthy moments on land and sea (view Stab issue 89 for the resulting frames or a digital gallery from that occasion), appearances to flutter the heart and the personality to match, Cloudbreak spectating could have been shared in much worse company. 

It was a trip to Hawaii’s beloved North Shore that lit Sage’s fuse, inspiring her move from home state Montana to Southern California and pursue the surf photography game. “It’s been two years and I haven’t looked back,” she says. “Best decision I ever made!” Pairing her studies with an internship at Surfer Magazine and countless travels shooting pals, Sage’s exposures have a pleasing and timeless aesthetic.

So, how did a girl that grew up in a landlocked state come to be a Stab-adored photographer? Scroll on down and get acquainted. 

1. Describe yourself

2. Where are you from?

3. What got you into photography?

4. Where do you wish you were right now?

5. What inspires you?

6. Who is your favourite person to photograph?

7. What makes the best photograph?

8. What’s your favourite weapon?

9. Describe your mood right now.

10. What else should we know about you?

We recommend giving Sage an Instagram follow, here.