Photographs for a surfboard repair request
Clear photographs help James judge the type and scale of the repair before you bring the board to the workshop.
Written by James Bailey, shaper and maker at Whitburn Studio.
Photograph the whole board
Start with one image showing the complete deck or bottom. This gives the damage a position and helps identify the board type, length and construction clues.
Step closer without losing context
Take a second image from far enough away to show the damaged area and the surrounding rail, deck or bottom. This view often reveals whether the repair crosses an edge or fin box.
Add a sharp close view
Fill the frame with the damage and keep the camera focused. Photograph open cracks, crushed foam, lifted glass and any missing material. Use natural light where possible and avoid a flash reflection across the surface.
Show the profile
A side angle helps with raised delamination, buckled rails and crushed sections. Keep the camera level with the board so the depth is visible.
Include scale
Place a ruler or common object beside the damage without covering it. Measurements written in the form are useful, though a visible scale makes the photograph easier to read.
Remove wax around the area when it can be done without disturbing loose glass. Do not cut, sand or fill the damage before James has seen it.