James Katsipis is a Montauk-born artist, known for his exceptional ocean photography and stunning visual art. Over two decades ago, Katsipis began traveling around the world shooting and exploring distant shores as an adventure and surf photographer. Growing up in and around the ocean is the natural theme and influence throughout his portfolio. Today, as a fine art photographer and in-demand commissionable artist, James’s work is featured in fine art galleries, campaigns, books and magazines worldwide. He has recently opened his own gallery in Montauk and it’s absolutely beautiful. James has evolved and grown as a person over the years. He’s really come into his own and has had to overcome some large obstacles along the way. He’s humble, smart, emotionally aware and one of our favorite interviews.  We were recently in Montauk the week he opened his gallery. What follows is an in depth conversation with someone who has made many strides to get where he is and now feels comfortable in his own skin. Our conversation wanders from his evolving attitude over the recent popularity of his home town, to his technique and how he handles the ups and down of life. We are really stoked to present to you our conversation with James Katsipis. Enjoy…  For more information on James's work go to www.jameskatsipis.com You can Follow James Katsipis on Instagram @letstaukgrams The Swell Season Surf Podcast is recorded by The NewsStand Studio at Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan and is distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Network.  For more information, you can follow @swellseasonsurfradio on Instagram or go to our website: www.swellseasonsurf.com  Music:  Song:Touch of Grey Artist: The Grateful Dead Album: The Very Best of Grateful Dead 00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast 00:09 James Katsipis: The Journey of an Ocean Photographer 00:48 Opening a Gallery in Montauk 00:54 A Personal Connection with James 01:27 The Evolution of Montauk and Localism 02:33 Cherishing Montauk: The Art Show 04:35 Montauk's Artistic Legacy and Community 08:00 Balancing Change and Tradition 25:58 Chasing Light: The Art of Photography 38:09 Family Background and Early Life 39:03 Struggles with Family Expectations 40:53 Pursuing Photography 43:04 The Mermaid Series 45:25 Challenges and Success in Photography 01:01:28 Mental Health and Personal Growth 01:08:28 Overcoming Addiction 01:12:25 Reflecting on Childhood Bullying 01:13:23 Embracing Individuality and Defiance 01:14:51 Navigating Criticism and Success 01:17:01 Adventures and Near-Death Experiences 01:21:02 Passion for Film Photography 01:28:15 Opening a Physical Gallery Space 01:36:56 Community and Collaboration 01:43:18 Shoutouts and Final Thoughts Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season--3483504/support.