Follow the Light is a globally recognized photography grant and award program that celebrates the next generation of surf photographers. Proudly presented under the Coast Film & Music Festival, Follow the Light continues its legacy of discovering and supporting young photographers who capture the beauty, culture, and spirit of surfing.

Shortly after legendary surf photographer and 30-year photo editor of SURFING Magazine Larry "Flame" Moore's passing in 2005, a group of friends and family formed the Follow the Light Foundation to ensure that Flame's legacy of passionately supporting up-and-coming surf photographers continued. Each year, talented photographers from around the world submit their work to be considered for the prestigious Follow the Light Award, which brings together a community of surf media and industry professionals, athletes, and friends to recognize the excellence of the next generation of surf photographers.

Eligibility:

Applicants must apply as individuals - collaborations and business entities are not permitted.
Applicants may not be employed as professional surf photographers by any surf media company or surf industry brand.
Must be between 18 - 26 years old.
Finalists must be present at the awards ceremony in October in Laguna Beach, California to win.

Click the COMPLETE APPLICATION FEE button in the upper right corner to submit the $25 Application Fee. You will receive a confirmation email with a code to input into your application.

Follow the Light 2026 Applications

Honoring Emerging Surf Photographers