Meet...Gray Malin

We’ve long been fans of aerial photographer Gray Malin and his amazing work, so it was a beautiful thing to find the feeling was mutual!

Fast forward a few months and here we are, with our recently launched summer collection featuring Gray’s own ‘Waves of Cape Town’ image on our aptly named ‘Waves’ beach umbrella.

We asked the intrepid adventurer a few questions about himself and his work…

I know you started out interning for David LaChapelle, could you share one of your stand-out memories of that time?

It was a brief internship but memorable as I was greatly influenced by his whimsical sets and over-the-top staged shoots.

How did you first get involved with aerial photography – what triggered it off?

I was staying at a hotel in Miami and while looking down at the pool from high above, I was inspired to photograph it because the shapes and colors that formed so far below began to take the form of art to me. After that, I was curious to see how it would be from a helicopter, so I booked my first fly and the rest as they say is history.

What location do you love the most/have the fondest memories of?

I have many fond memories of photographing the beaches as well as my Dream Series in Australia. I also studied abroad there, so I have a love for the entire country, from its people to the beaches and its landscapes.

What made you excited about the prospect of partnering with BB on an artist print?

I am excited to bring my imagery onto an outstanding product that you can take to the beach and create memories around.

Was there anything you were trying to achieve with this particular photograph?

Waves was shot above the beaches of Cape Town. The vibe at this beach is fun and lively, and I hope that these emotions translate to the umbrella. It’s meant for days of fun at the beach!

Do you have any favourite memories from the beach/ growing up?

Every summer my family goes to Lake Michigan. Some of my earliest travel memories are spending summers in Michigan where I would sail on a Sunfish sailboat, which years later was a key part of my inspiration for my series, Sail Away.

Why do you think people will dig ‘Waves’ over their heads?

The colours of this print are really captivating. Whether you’re someone who goes to the beach daily or simply want to bring a little bit of the beach to your backyard, I think nothing brings it more full circle than having a beautiful wave shielding you from the rays.

What’s been the most hilarious thing to happen on a shoot?

During my Gray Malin at The Parker shoot one of the flamingos flew away! Luckily, we had professional animal trainers on hand, but it definitely was a memorable moment watching the trainer run after the flyaway bird!

What are your top 3 favourite beach destinations?

1) Capri, Italy 2) Bondi Beach, Australia and 3) Cape Town, South Africa