For our latest shoot in Hawaii, we teamed up with the incredibly talented photographer, lemon, whose creative eye and love for the ocean brought Plow’s laid-back energy to life. From dreamy surf conditions to spontaneous laughter behind the scenes, Lemon captured it all in her signature natural style.
We caught up with her to talk about the shoot, her photography philosophy, and why reef-safe sun care isn’t just a trend—it’s a must.
interview with lemon
did you have a creative vision for the day? how do you usually prep for shoots?
The latest Plow shoot was so fun! With my photography, I love to highlight my subjects in the most natural environment possible. Having Kirra and Sami on the other side of the lens made the day playful, fun, and full of laughter. Those are also some of the main words I would use to describe Plow's vibe. I would say the photos show exactly that!
how did you all choose the location to shoot at? what was the surf like on the day?
We had heard of a spot on the other side of the Island that would be manageable for the girls as the waves for nearly the entire winter have been Large to Extra Large. At that point in the trip, they were feaning for a nice log wave. When we arrived, perfect sets were sliding through the bright blue bay. Hoots and hollers streamed out of our car. We were all frothing. The sun had just come up over the mountains and we were blessed with an uncrowded lineup. The locals were both ripping and friendly. The ideal combination for any shoot and surf session. I think the average water time that day was 5 hours per person. I'd say just what the doctor ordered!
about photography & surf culture
what inspires your photography style when shooting surf and lifestyle brands?
My main passions in life are surf and photography, so pairing those two is instantly a dream for me. Sharing that moment with someone as they're sliding down a wave is truly unmatched! Like I mentioned above, I truly love to showcase subjects in their natural environment or doing something they love doing. It makes the photos come out as authentic and energised.
what does sun safety mean to you? how do you incorporate it in your routine / reef safe zinc etc.?
What's the saying? “The best sunscreen is the one you’ll wear.” And while that’s mostly true, I’d add one small but important caveat: it should also be safe for the ocean. More and more brands are marketing their sunscreens as reef-safe, but not all of them actually are. And the reason this matters—especially here in Hawai‘i—is because certain chemicals in traditional sunscreens are harming our coral reefs in ways we can’t ignore.
Studies have shown that chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate (found in many sunscreens) can cause coral bleaching, deform baby coral, and even damage their DNA. And considering that up to 14,000 tons of sunscreen end up in the ocean every year, that’s a serious problem.
Hawai‘i took a stand back in 2018, becoming the first state to ban sunscreens with these harmful ingredients. Since then, more places—and even entire countries—have followed suit. And it’s no surprise why: healthy reefs mean healthier marine life, clearer waters, and thriving coastal ecosystems.
For me, choosing sunscreen isn’t just about sun protection—it’s about making sure I’m not harming the very places I love spending time in. That’s why I stick to mineral-based sunscreens with non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These act as a physical barrier against the sun (instead of absorbing UV rays like chemical sunscreens do) and, most importantly, they don’t disrupt marine life.
A simple switch, but one that makes a real difference.
what's your favourite pic from the shoot?
I have three... ooops!
how do you see surf photography evolving and what space do you see it living in?
Well first off, more chicks!! It's funny, most times I swim out with my camera I have another lovely lady who is out there by herself surfing who is excited to just have another female in the water with her. It's an instant bond.
I think surf photography has so many facets, and it's up to each individual to bring their style and experience into the water and behind the lens. I'm so thankful for the years I've had behind the camera and I hope to inspire some young ladies to do the same!
Lemon’s energy behind the lens is as vibrant and thoughtful as the photos she creates. This shoot reminded us just how powerful it is when creativity, nature, and community come together—and how vital it is to protect the spaces we play in.
