Beneath the Foil

Exploring the Hidden Marine World

The team at Appletree Surfboards met Underwater Photographer and Marine Biologist (and wingfoiler) Lorenzo Mittiga through a mutual connection, and since then they’ve had an ongoing conversation about how the brand can further position itself as a steward of ocean conservation alongside responsible production of surfboards. At the heart of their conversations lies the health of our underwater ecosystems – brought vividly to life through Lorenzo’s images. Here Lorenzo reflects on what occurs beneath the foil…

Words & Photos: Lorenzo Mittiga

As we embark on the exhilarating journey of skimming the water's surface with our foils, there lies a captivating world beneath the waves that often escapes our attention. This world is teeming with life, color, and wonder, an intricate ecosystem that deserves not only our admiration but also our utmost respect. Today, I invite you to dive deeper into the marine realm, unveiling its mysteries through a lens that captures not just the thrill of the sport, but the beauty of life beneath the board and foil.

The ocean is a symphony of life, and each note is played by the creatures that inhabit its depths. From the delicate dance of corals to the stealthy glide of sea turtles, the marine world's vibrant diversity is a masterpiece waiting to be discovered. Yet, how often do we truly connect with this underwater realm? It is time to broaden our perspective, to become conscious participants in the marine narrative that unfolds beneath us as we glide through the water.

Enter with Awareness, Leave with Reverence

Our foiling adventures grant us access to the ocean in a unique and thrilling way. However, with this privilege comes a responsibility – a responsibility to tread carefully and enter the ocean with awareness, as if stepping into a hallowed sanctuary. Just as we approach a revered place with reverence, we must approach the ocean with a deep understanding of its fragility. Our entry into the water, our movements above and below, all contribute to the delicate balance of marine life.

We all hold a responsibility when it comes to entering the ocean with mindfulness – that goes for us as foilers and even extends to Appletree as a foilboard manufacturer. During our conversations, an interesting question popped up: how can Appletree do more than just creating boards responsibly to actively contribute to ocean preservation? This question truly fascinates me, and it's something the Appletree team is eager to dig into further, especially with experts like myself guiding us along the way.

Visual Storytelling for Marine Awareness

Underwater photography serves as the window to the marine world that often eludes our direct sight. Through the lens, we can capture the intricate tapestry of coral reefs, the mesmerizing patterns of fish schools, and the breathtaking beauty of sea creatures. It's a perspective that allows us to immerse ourselves in the lives beneath us, to feel the currents that sway the underwater vegetation, and to witness the interactions that shape this hidden universe. With each photograph, we are granted a momentary glimpse into a reality that deserves our attention and protection.

Visual storytelling has an unparalleled power to convey emotions and inspire change. As foiling enthusiasts, we can harness this power to raise awareness about the marine world we are so intrinsically connected to. By sharing our underwater captures, we don't just showcase the beauty – we share stories of resilience, coexistence, and the impact of our actions on this delicate ecosystem. Through these visuals, we can engage a wider audience, igniting conversations that ripple far beyond the foiling community.

Educational Enrichment Through Words and Facts

While images transport us to the marine world, words and facts provide context and understanding. As we gaze at an underwater photograph, we should also be informed about the species we see, their roles in the ecosystem, and the threats they face. Fun facts about marine life inject an element of curiosity and wonder, encouraging us to delve deeper into this realm of discovery. By coupling visuals with educational content, we cultivate a holistic connection to the marine world.

Did you know that a group of jellyfish is called a smack? Or that some fish change their colors to communicate with each other? These fun facts aren't just tidbits of trivia; they are invitations to explore further, to celebrate the small wonders that comprise marine life. In the same vein, our actions, even the seemingly insignificant ones, collectively shape the health of our oceans. Every time we choose to avoid disturbing the seabed, we contribute to the preservation of habitats that sustain countless species.

Foiling with a Purpose

As foiling enthusiasts, we have the power to turn our passion into a force for good. By integrating awareness and respect for marine life into our foiling journeys, we can set an example for others to follow. Let's enter the water with mindfulness, conscious of the impact we might have on the underwater world. Through underwater photography and visual storytelling, we can inspire awe and empathy for marine life, encouraging a broader audience to care for the oceans.

In conclusion, let us not merely skim the surface of the ocean, but dive deep into the heart of its mysteries. The world beneath our foils is a canvas of life that beckons to be explored, understood, and cherished. By approaching the ocean with awareness, embracing the beauty of underwater photography, and sharing the stories of marine life, we pave the way for a future where foiling and marine conservation coexist harmoniously. It's time to redefine our relationship with the ocean and immerse ourselves in the wonder that lies beneath the foil.