Hunter Martinez is 21 years old and from Pasadena, California. Not exactly a spot many of you would know if you surf. But that hasn’t stopped him from becoming a major standout in what has become an overwhelmingly well-documented California winter. Hunter has the eye. And the hustle. And our very own Nate Lawrence saw this. We curated some of his recent work and got to know him a bit in this new Photo Credit.

What Youth: Describe your approach to photography?

Hunter Martinez: I personally think of photography as a way to document life in whichever ways you want. What I mean is there are so many different cameras and video cams out now that you can record anything as long as you know what you want others to see. I think film photography is the best, I hope to get further into that, but I also like knowing about digital because its what everyone uses for immediate coverage.

Who’s work inspires you?

I’ve always been most inspired by younger people. Although I look up to every photographer I know, people near my age push me to do things differently. But of course we wouldn’t be where we are without current group of well known photographers.

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What makes a good photograph?

I would consider a good photo to be one that first makes you say something like, “thats so sick,” or “holy shit,” then after you really look at it, you confirm its good. Surf photos are a different “good” than other kinds of photos, nothing is ever the same so when a good surf shots comes around and everything comes together, its pretty cool.

Favorite camera?

That I own, an Olympus point ‘n shoot.

Interests outside photography?

I’ve always liked surfing and I really love dogs, but I also try to skate since all my friends do. Oh, and lately I’ve been seeing a lot of cool art I find interesting.

What pushes you outside your comfort zone?

I’ve only been into photography/filming for a year, and I’ve come to realize there is a decent amount of competition between photographers. So not that it makes me uncomfortable, but I feel like I take better photos when I’m alone or with friends on a trip where we are all relaxed. A crowded spot on a good day kinda bums me out but I still love it too [laughs].

Why do you take photos?

I take pictures because I like capturing the good times we all have with our friends, whether its near home or when your traveling, its always sick looking back at a good photo of a great time, and I’d like to do keep doing that.