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Warren BolsterAmerican photographer, surfer Article text in Russian:
Date of Birth: 11.06.1947
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Warren Bolster: The Legend of Surf Photography and Skateboarding
- Reputation as a Surfer and Photographer
- Revival of Skateboarding and Legacy
- Tragic End
Warren Bolster: The Legend of Surf Photography and Skateboarding
Early Life and Introduction to SurfingWarren Edward Bolster was an American photographer and renowned worldwide for his iconic surf photography. Born in Arlington, Virginia in 1947, Bolster's father worked as a diplomat, leading the family to frequently move from place to place. In 1963, Warren found himself in Sydney, Australia, where his father was appointed as the consul general. It was in Australia where Warren first developed a passion for surfing, capturing his early experiences on camera. Although his initial attempts at photography were not always successful, Bolster's dedication to the sport and documenting it grew.
Reputation as a Surfer and Photographer
Upon returning to the United States, Warren enrolled at Brevard Community College in Cocoa Beach, Florida in 1967. Within a few years, he became one of the country's most successful surfers. Alongside his training, Bolster continued to experiment with photography, and by the 1970s, his work started appearing in magazines. By 1980, he had accumulated over 600 cover photos. Bolster was known for his relentless pursuit of capturing the action, often putting his own health at risk. He sustained numerous injuries during his photoshoots but remained determined to document the sport he loved.
Revival of Skateboarding and Legacy
Not only did Bolster contribute to the popularization of surfing as a sport, but he also played a significant role in revitalizing 'Skateboarder Magazine,' which became a staple publication for skateboarders. His unreal photographs inspired many skateboarders and helped advance the sport as a whole. In 1978, Bolster moved to Hawaii, where he focused predominantly on surf photography. Despite his undeniable success, Warren struggled financially, often relying on pain medication to alleviate his numerous injuries. In his autobiography, 'The Legacy of Warren Bolster: Master of Skateboard Photography,' published in 2004, he expressed the sacrifices he made to support the sport.
Tragic End
In the summer of 2006, Warren Bolster was involved in a serious accident, which ultimately led to his tragic demise. A few days later, on September 6, 2006, he took his own life. According to his wife, Warren lived with constant pain and heavily relied on strong medication. It is believed that under the influence of these drugs, he made the decision to end his life. Today, Warren Bolster's photographs are considered classics of the genre, captivating and inspiring young people to fall in love with surfing forever.
