Photo: Victoria Moura

Gabriella Angotti-Jones has the spirit of the youth that makes us believe the kids really are all right.

Gabriella published her first photography zine ‘I Just Wanna Surf’ documenting and celebrating her community of black women and non-binary surfers at the ripe old age of 23. If we were betting people, we would be putting money on Gabriella. We’re not, but we’d still put money on her because that’s how much of an impression she has already made. Her photos are regular features in the New York Times, just casually, with a real talent for conveying emotion across her photos that make us want to go surfing and hug our friends. Our favourite thing about Gabriella is how much she cares. About her art, about surfing, her family and friends, about trying to make the world a better place. Some oldies are quick to dismiss that the youngins don’t give a fuck, but Gabriella is here to remind us that they really do.

Who are you?

I'm a sister, journalist, daughter, water woman-in-training, surfer, a slut for salad, a small girl.

What do you do?

I'm a photojournalist and commercial photographer.

How long have you been doing that?

About seven years professionally, nine since I really started trying to make photography happen.

Where is home for you?

I currently live in Los Angeles, but I'm from South Orange County.

Photo 1 Top Left: Elijah Sinclair Walker. Photo 4 Bottom Right: Basil Vargvas

If you weren’t surfing or taking photos, what would you be doing?

I'd probably be outrigging and making pastries/baking stuff full time.

What do you think about the current state of surfing?

I think the larger corporations are losing their power over the culture. I think all the smaller mags, surf groups/brands are way cooler and stronger. Everyone's over surfing's competitive, overtly male gaze and capitalistic values. I think we're about to have a revolution of African surfers and we're in the midst of an explosion of female and non female talent on every level especially in SoCal. 

What do you do outside of surfing and photography and how does that thing influence or affect your craft?

I watch a lot of movies and talk about story structure with my friends and family. I collect art books and I go to galleries when I can to get inspo. And I’m constantly watching music videos and listening to music. 

The best/worst thing about the surf industry? 

Best: So many cool people who genuinely care about the sport and the people who participate in it

Worst: There is no money in it and nobody gets paid their worth. Also sexism, colonialism, racism.

Something you’re most proud of? 

That I’ve gotten this far and I’m still making money!! Also my truck. And I've had photos on billboards and getting shortlisted for Aperture in 2022 for my book was so amazing and cool.

Biggest lesson you’ve learnt in life so far?

People tell you who they are and what they are about pretty immediately lol. 

Something anyone can do today to make the world a better place? 

Give someone an unsolicited compliment. 

What is the biggest challenge you’ve overcome so far in your industry?

Gatekeeping.

What is something people might not know about you? 

I literally think I'm tall but I'm not even 5'6. 

Who do you think is doing it the best/coolest in your industry right now?

Emocean is killing it with its design game and coverage surf. I'm obsessed with the 2% surf kids and love to see SC represent the true attitude and style of the area (please let me photograph you guys thanks).

What do you think is the biggest issue young people are facing today?

The economy and climate change. 

How can surfing be more inclusive?

Long-term: Increasing beach access, facilitating local break history, knowledge and rules which in my opinion helps reduce gatekeeping and allows people to respect the space, locals, and the ocean. 

Short term: People need to chill the fuck out and let people get waves. Overall, please stop being agro. It’s embarrassing and it ruins a sacred place. Just be nice. Otherwise, I will read you and your lack of hairline. 

Do you think of yourself as an activist?

LMAO no but people say I am.

What is your favourite subject to photograph?

Any situation where I can melt into it and observe and feel.

What was it like holding your first photography book for the first time?

I cried and facetimed some of the people in it and my mom.