BEHIND THE LENS: TUCKER WOODING

Tucker Wooding has made a name for himself as one of the most skilled filmmakers & aerial cinematographers in the surf world, but many don't know that his main gig is actually spending months at sea wrangling wild salmon in Alaska. As a FLORENCE Test Pilot, Tucker puts our gear through its paces in the harshest conditions the Alaskan sea can throw at him before spending his off-season capturing some of the heaviest waves on the planet from a perspective few can match. We caught up with Tucker just before his next Alaskan adventure.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself—where you’re from, your age, and how you’d describe what you do?

My name is Tucker Wooding. I’m from Lake Tapps, Washington, and I’m 27 years old. I’m a surf filmmaker specializing in aerial cinematography and documenting big swells. I’ve also been a commercial fisherman in Alaska for 18 years and have captained my own boat for the last 10 years.

What first inspired you to pick up a camera, and how did you get started in cinematography?

I’ve always had an interest in surf, ski, and outdoor films—I just never realized I’d end up being a part of it. I got into filming a little over four years ago after being inspired by two movies: A View from a Blue Moon by John Florence and Parallel Sea, and Nervous Laughter by Albee Layer and Dan Norkunas. I’ve watched those films so many times.

I randomly started my film career after a surf session in Huntington Beach. I saw Kai Lenny out there, grabbed a drone I had, and filmed him surfing. I put together an edit, and to my surprise, he posted it. After that, I just kept chasing swells and documenting heavy surf.

Can you share a standout moment shooting on the North Shore or elsewhere on the planet with the Florence brothers?

My standout moment would be going to Fiji and scoring Cloudbreak with Nathan Florence last year. But on the North Shore, it would have to be my very first time there—a solid Pipeline swell on February 14, 2021. I was blown away by how insane Pipeline is in person. Seeing John, Nate, and Ivan Florence surf was surreal at the time. I wasn’t very good at filming yet, but I did get one sick shot of John that I’m still pretty stoked on.

What makes a surfing clip stand out for you?

First, it’s all about the surfing and the wave. Second, it’s the creativity of the shot. And third, the lighting and color of the scene.

What would you say has shaped your style and approach?

Watching hours and hours of surfing and studying how different waves break has shaped how I film. My approach with a drone has always been: How can I make this mainly about the surfer and the wave?

If there’s too much movement in the shot, it distracts from what’s most important—the surfing. One of my favorite angles is looking into the barrel while moving at the same speed as the surfer. It’s such a unique perspective and really fun to capture.

One camera package for the rest of your life—what’s the kit?

A RED Raptor on a Freefly Alta X heavy-lift drone. Or an Inspire 3.

What advice would you give to aspiring drone operators?

Watch as much surfing as you can. Understand how waves break and what looks visually best. If I’m going to a spot I haven’t filmed before, I study a ton of footage from that break—both land and water angles—to figure out how to capture it properly from the air.

My biggest advice for drone ops in surfing is to have respect and awareness of other filmmakers and photographers. Be considerate of the people on land with long lenses and those swimming with water housings. A drone can be very annoying and a visual nightmare if it’s in the wrong place. Fly high between sets and do your best to stay out of the frame for people shooting from land or water.

As a member since the very beginning of the brand, what are some of your go-to pieces of gear?

High Pile Utility Fleece Jacket

"Fleece is my favorite material. It’s the best for staying warm and dry when I’m in Alaska. This is hands down my favorite product. The style and fit are perfect."

Stormfleece Pro Zip Hoodie

"My go-to for hiking and long runs. Never too hot, never too cold. It’s the perfect medium."

eVent 3-Layer Waterproof Shell

"When I’m on my boat in Alaska, I need protection from the elements. We’re exposed to the ocean and storms, so having high-quality gear that keeps me dry is essential. I love that I can layer this over the fleece when I need to stay warm."

Mens 4/3 Hooded Wetsuit

"From where I’m based, I need a high-quality wetsuit that’s warm. This one has the warmth of a 5/4 but the feel of a 3/2. It’s 100% the best wetsuit I’ve ever had."

Expedition Utility Pant

"Traveling, filming, exploring—these pants are the best."

SHOP TUCKER'S TESTED GEAR