When it comes to wave pool photography, few capture the essence of surfing in an artificial setting like Matze Ried. Fewer still can consistently produce außergewöhnlich (extraordinary & unusual) work. His journey began on the windswept shores of France, where the interplay of light and water sparked a lifelong fascination.
From France to Berlin: The Artistic Path
Moved by the medium’s artistic potential, Matze pursued a degree in screen-based media in Berlin. His academic foundation deepened his understanding of visual storytelling, preparing him for the surf park photography frontier.
Resident Wave Pool Photographer at o2 SURFTOWN MUC
Now based in Munich, Matze is the resident photographer at o2 SURFTOWN MUC, one of Europe’s premier wave pools for surfing and the first with Endless Surf technology. Since the surf park’s public opening, he has documented sessions with top-tier athletes including Mick Fanning, Mikey February, Blair Conklin and a host German superstars.
More Than a Shot List: Art Meets Assignment
Each shoot begins with a detailed photography shot list, a standard operational practice at the Munich wave pool. But through Matze’s eye, every assignment transcends the checklist. His work elevates wave pool surf photography into something almost cinematic—where light, water, and concrete become larger than the sum of their parts. Again, “außergewöhnlich.”
Capturing “In Between Moments”
In a recent promotional campaign, his latest batch of images immediately stood out. His work isn’t just technically excellent—it’s emotionally resonant. Matze refers to them as capturing the “in between moments,” those fleeting scenes where a surfer’s expression or a reflection on the water tells a deeper story.
A Photographer Who’s Easy to Work With
Beyond his artistic vision, Matze is known for his professionalism and collaborative spirit. The team at o2 SURFTOWN MUC praises his ability to balance creativity with commercial deliverables, making him an asset in every promotional push.
“He’s very reliable and never misses a beat,” said Munich surfing legend Quirin Rohleder. “That’s a big difference between Matze and a lot of photographers – and I don’t know if he wants to hear this – is that he aint no primadonna like a lot can be. Which makes it really nice to work with him.”
Why Matze Ried Is a Name to Know in Wave Pool Photography
In a rapidly evolving surf industry, wave pool photography is carving out a space of its own. With venues like o2 SURFTOWN MUC pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in artificial waves, creatives like Matze Ried are capturing this shift in stunning visual form.
Final Thoughts
As more wave pools emerge across the globe, photographers like Matze are essential in defining how this next chapter of surfing is perceived. His work doesn’t just document—it inspires.
