Photolyfe: Russell Ord

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! Russell Ord is a man that doesn’t beat around the bush, and that is something that is reflected in every aspect of his work. He’s a husband, a father of three, a searcher, and one of the world’s best ocean photographers. Russ is a straight shooter and is well known for speaking his mind. If he doesn’t like something, he’ll let you know, even if it’s his own work. “I look at images and rate the moment captured out of ten,” says the WA lensman. “I do the same for the skill level, giving the image a score out of 20. If I can look at my images and get a score of 15 I am stoked. I have taken maybe two of those, but that’s about it. It’s just a little game I play in my head.” Imitation might be the best form of flattery, but this gent is all about originality, whether it’s exploring unchartered waters off the WA coastline or jumping in at The Right with nothing but a fisheye rig. “I see about two images a year that blow my mind from the skill level involved to take the shot,” he says. “It may not be the best moment in time, but for me it makes me want to strive for something better. My favourite person to photograph is Chris Ross. The guy charges remote waves exactly where I would like to be, away from everyone exploring.” Conveniently, Russell has just launched a shiny new website, which you can check out here. 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’s 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?