Photographing a classic Matt Climber "hang 10"

I got in the car before sunrise and drove bleary eyed to the base of Echo Valley to meet Matt Bush. We had scouted out the shoot location the day before – an impressive overhang at the top of Bonny Doon. Soon it would be illuminated by the first light of dawn, and if we timed it right I knew the photo could be spectacular.

After much huffing and puffing on the steep approach, we made it up to the hilltop in good time. I packed out my camera while we debated an important question – which pair of tights would pop the most? I marvelled at his wide selection and was immediately drawn the glittery rainbow pair. Go big I say.

We had to move quickly or we’d miss the best light.

I watched Matt delicately lower himself over the edge of the overhang. He’d be holding onto a large flat edge with his right hand, and a less friendly crimp with his left. They were decent holds, and I’m confident in Matt’s ability - yet the thought of him slipping and breaking his legs did cross my mind. It was nowhere near his most extreme stunt, but he was still several metres off the deck.  

The sun peaked over the mountain and with slightly sweaty fingertips I fired off the shutter.

Despite the initial agony of waking up early I’m always so delighted to have made it out and up the mountain for sunrise – especially when I get to take photographs like this one. The ocean looked like soft blue velvet, the valley, still in shadow sweeping below Matt’s feet. It was definitely one of my best.

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