On Oct. 16, Todd Glaser was awarded the "Follow the Light Foundation" grant provided by Surfing Magazine in honor of the late Larry "Flame" Moore, one of the most renowned surf photographers for over 30 years. This award reflects more than great photography. It's about the person, who they are, what drives them, and how each person uses their individuality to express their vision and document surfing and the lifestyle that surrounds it.
Other finalists included: Ryan Craig of Santa Cruz, Zak Noyle of Hawaii, Shawn Parkin of Orange County, and Patrick Ruddy of Florida.
Todd said to the crowd, after the surprising selection was announced: "I didn't prepare a speech, I never thought I would be chosen, but thank you, I am honored." Perhaps, the shortest acceptance speech in the three-year history of the event. Todd may have known all along what he wanted to say, but oftentimes in these moments it's difficult to express them. However, a short while later, he was very clear.
"This is the greatest honoring I've had,” he said. “I want to use some of the money to create a photography book about people and how they are influenced by surfing and the ocean. From musicians to shapers, surfers, to the everyday person that has the ‘thing’ about the water. It's magical! I will also contribute a portion to the ‘Big Worm Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’ to assist in helping those with Cystic Fibrosis. I lost a great friend to CF and it means a lot to me," said Todd.
Todd lives his life with a passion for anything he does including photography and the environment, the community he lives in or visits, and his family.
Earlier this year Todd graduated from Brooks Institute of Photography in Santa Barbara. His life's journey has taken him throughout the world filled with great photographic adventures, meeting the locals, sharing stories, and learning about different cultures.
Todd stated: "The one thing my travels have provided is that when it comes to the environmental issues and surfing, no matter where we go, we have so much in common. That's what makes every trip unique and memorable."
To see more of his work you can visit his website at www.tglaser.com
Congrats Todd!
