Olympic Photographer Jerome Brouillet Captures Iconic Surf Shot

At every Olympic Games, a select group of photographers capture iconic images. On Day 3 of the 2024 Summer Games, French photographer Jerome Brouillet captured one such image. His photograph of Brazilian surfer Gabriel Medina mid-air, giving the number one sign, has quickly become synonymous with the triumph of the Games.

In an interview with TIME, Brouillet expressed surprise at the widespread attention his photo has received. He explained that there are two media boats covering the surfing events, which are held in the waters off the French territory of Tahiti. He stated, “To be fair, if all conditions are met – weather, waves, light, if the boat driver is in the right position, and if you know how to use your camera – you can take good images of surfing in Teahupo’o.” He added, “All the rest is experience, timing, and a bit of luck! This differentiates a good shot from a great shot.”

All the photographers on site shoot in “bursts,” meaning they capture over 20 images per second. Brouillet emphasized that he likely shot several frames at the same time other photographers were capturing the moment. He believes he took four frames of Medina in the air and knew immediately that this particular shot was the best. However, he acknowledged that it was a “team effort,” crediting his editor at the AFP for recognizing the exceptional quality of the image and immediately posting it for the world to see.

Brouillet is familiar with the waters of Teahupo’o. He moved to Tahiti about 10 years ago from Marseilles after falling in love with the region during a vacation with his girlfriend. He has been working for the AFP for several years, preparing for the 2024 Olympics. His dedication led him to be on the primary media boat on July 29th.

Brouillet is a surfer himself, but even small waves in Teahupo’o are considered dangerous. “I’m not sure I want to take the risk,” he says. He feels much safer on the media boat, embracing serendipity and utilizing his camera to capture the spirit of the Olympic Games.