Born in Santa Monica California, Bob Barbour's early years spent on the beach and in the surf became the foundation for his lifelong passion for the ocean, waves and the quintessential surfing lifestyle.
Bob started surfing at Malibu when he was 13 and soon became an avid surfer. Although he enjoyed photography, it wasn't until his college days at San Diego State that he realized his true calling.
Bob’s photography teacher, Gene Kennedy was that one in a million teacher who inspired and mentored Bob to make his passion for photography his career.
The rolls of film shot on his first trip to Hawaii gave Barbour the confidence to submit them to Surfing Magazine. The photos published from that trip made it clear to him that he could, in fact, make his professional photographic aspirations a reality. Bob's images became instantly recognizable.
His impeccable eye for detail, patience for good lighting, great rides and perfect waves landed him a Staff Photographer position with Surfing Magazine. That endeavor would turn out to be a twenty-year career before moving on to Surfer Magazine.
The Santa Cruz area was one of his first assignments for Surfing. He welcomed the opportunity to visit Santa Cruz for an extended period of time.
Now, three decades later, he still calls Santa Cruz home and has amassed a historical photo library of surfing life from the area unmatched by anyone.
His award-winning photography has allowed him to travel worldwide. His images have appeared in books, magazines, calendars and publications both nationally and internationally, along with exhibitions and juried art shows. Many of his limited-edition original works are hanging in collections and galleries worldwide.
On a technical note, Bob designs and builds his own water housings and uses Canon cameras and lenses exclusively. His film of choice is Fuji Velvia.