“A Day in the Life” with professional surf photographer Marcus Paladino

I’ve always been jealous of my little brother, Marcus Paladino. Not because for most of our childhood I was sure he was our parents’ favourite, (I’m still not entirely convinced he isn’t) but because he always knew what he wanted to be: a sports photographer. In high school, he took an interest in photography and excelled, his talent was obvious to everyone. When graduation rolled around, he planned to enroll in the Professional Photography program at North Island College. He admitted to me he was worried he wouldn’t succeed in such a competitive field. I tried to reassure him by saying if it didn’t work out, he could always be the kind of photographer who takes school photos or family portraits at the mall. My intention was to comfort him, but my words had the opposite effect, he looked absolutely horrified and declared that was no life for him. Thirteen years later and Marcus has persevered from humble beginnings shooting his friends for fun to working with some of the best surfers in the country. From making a small income shooting surf lessons to getting published in prestigious magazines and publishing a book. I’ve witnessed his style transform from action shots to incredible artistic expressions.

While I floated from job to job, Marcus Paladino never once lost sight of his dream. I’ve watched it all with overwhelming pride, never hesitating to tell anyone who will listen: That’s my baby brother and I admire him more than anyone.

-Written by Francesca Paladino (Marcus’s Sister)