Gurreyʻs Ltd. Billboard circa 1911
History & Legacy
A. R. Gurrey Jr. (1874–1944) is widely recognized as one of the earliest—and most influential—surf photographers in history. Long before waterproof cameras, fast shutters, or digital tools existed, Gurrey captured surfers riding the waves of Waikiki with remarkable artistry and innovation. His work helped introduce the world to the sport of surfing and preserve the culture of Hawai‘i at the turn of the 20th century.
Early Life & Path to Photography
- Born in Kansas in 1874, Gurrey later moved to Hawai‘i, where he developed a deep appreciation for the ocean and local culture.
- He opened an art and photography gallery in Honolulu, becoming part of the growing creative community.
- His wife, Caroline Haskins Gurrey, was also a respected photographer, known for portraits of Hawai‘i’s diverse families.
Pioneering Surf Photography
At a time when cameras were bulky, slow, and sensitive to water, Gurrey experimented courageously with technique and vantage point.
He photographed surfers:
-
- From the beach, capturing sweeping views of Diamond Head and Waikiki.
- From canoes, getting closer to the action than anyone had before.
- In the midst of motion, producing images full of energy, culture, and connection to the ocean.
His photographs are some of the earliest visual records of legendary Hawaiian surfers, including Duke Kahanamoku and others who shaped surfing’s global story.
The Gurreyʻs 1903 From “Photographers of Old Hawaii”
Duke Kahanamoku
The Surf Riders of Hawaii (1914)
In 1914, Gurrey assembled one of the first books ever created about surfing: The Surf Riders of Hawaii
- Hand-bound and produced in limited numbers
- Included Gurrey’s photographs, handwritten captions, and poetry
- Now considered one of the rarest and most valuable surf books in the world
- Helped ignite interest in surfing far beyond Hawai‘i
Style & Artistic Impact
Gurrey blended art, athleticism, and documentary photography in a way few had attempted.
His work is known for:
- Strong composition using Hawai‘i’s mountains and shorelines
- Dramatic silhouettes and lighting
- Motion, energy, and storytelling
- Cultural authenticity, depicting surfing as a way of life
Note embossed Gurrey stamp at bottom left, reads “Gurrey – Honolulu”
Makaweli, Kauai by A. R. Gurrey Sr. (Kauai Museum Collection)
Why A.R. Gurrey Jr. Still Matters
Gurrey’s photographs capture a moment in time when surfing, culture, and community were
deeply intertwined. Modern surf photography—whether taken from the shoreline, water, drone,
or board—still builds on his pioneering work.
His legacy continues to inspire:
- Artists
- Photographers
- Historians
- Students
- Anyone who loves the ocean
