Morgan Maassen was born on August 23, 1990, in Santa Barbara, California. From a young age, he displayed a keen interest in photography and filmmaking, spending hours capturing the beauty of the ocean and the surfers who rode its waves. This fascination with the sea would become a dominant theme in his work, shaping his unique artistic style.
At just 20 years old, Morgan Maassen received the prestigious Follow The Light Grant in 2010, which provided him with the opportunity to further develop his skills and pursue his passion for visual storytelling. This early recognition served as a springboard for his burgeoning career in the world of photography.
In 2014, Morgan Maassen's talent and dedication to his craft were recognized once again when he was named a finalist in the Olympus Pro Photographer Showdown. This accolade solidified his reputation as a rising star in the photography world and helped him garner a larger audience for his work.
However, it was his video "Water II," released in September 2017, that truly catapulted Morgan Maassen to fame. The video, a mesmerizing visual ode to the power and beauty of the ocean, was handpicked as a Staff Pick on Vimeo, bringing the talented photographer widespread acclaim and recognition.
Despite his growing success, Morgan Maassen remains grounded and deeply connected to his roots in Santa Barbara. The coastal town's natural beauty continues to inspire his work, driving him to capture its essence in his photographs and films.
In addition to his love for the ocean and surfing, Morgan Maassen is also passionate about environmental conservation. Through his work, he seeks to raise awareness about the fragile state of the planet's oceans and the urgent need for sustainable practices to protect them for future generations.
Throughout his career, Morgan Maassen has had the privilege of working with some of the biggest names in the surfing world, including renowned surfer Jack Johnson. His evocative photographs of Johnson in action have captured the attention of audiences around the globe, further solidifying his reputation as a visionary in the field of surf photography.
With over 280,000 followers on his Instagram account, Morgan Maassen continues to inspire and captivate audiences with his stunning visual creations. His work serves as a testament to the power of art to evoke emotion, provoke thought, and spark positive change in the world.
Related links