# Surfer Wins Adventure Photography Award in Remote Solomon Islands

> Beatriz Ryder wins 2026 Illume Awards Surf category after capturing surfer Shaley Mercado in Solomon Islands.
- Title: Surfer Wins Adventure Photography Award in Remote Solomon…
- Summary: Beatriz Ryder wins 2026 Illume Awards Surf category after capturing surfer Shaley Mercado in Solomon Islands.
- Keywords: beatriz ryder, shaley mercado, solomon islands, illume awards, surf category, rip curl, nikon z9, nikkor z 24-70mm f/2.8 s, Digital Camera World
- Source: Digital Camera World — https://digitalcameraworld.com/photography/awards-and-competitions/we-were-in-one-of-the-most-remote-parts-of-the-world-says-surf-photographer-after-snagging-major-adventure-photography-accolade
- Published: 2026-11-04T19:21:07+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: beatriz ryder, shaley mercado, solomon islands, illume awards, surf category, rip curl, nikon z9, nikkor z 24-70mm f/2.8 s
## Surf Photographer Wins Award
Beatriz Ryder, a Portuguese creative, won the Surf category at the 2026 Illume Awards for her image of professional surfer Shaley Mercado in the Solomon Islands.
## Remote Solomon Islands Location
The Solomon Islands, a Pacific nation 2,000 miles from Australia's northern coast, is a dream destination for surfers.
## Ryder's Winning Shot Details
Ryder captured Shaley Mercado on a shallow, fast wave with short, fun runners during a commercial shoot for Rip Curl.
## All-Girls Crew Experience
Ryder's crew included athletes at different career stages, from world champions to up-and-coming talents, making it her favorite work trip.
## Prizes and Recognition
Ryder won a Leica D-Lux 8 camera and her image will be featured in The Illume Photobook 2026.
## Key takeaway

Surf photographer Beatriz Ryder won the 2026 Illume Awards Surf category for her image of professional surfer Shaley Mercado in the Solomon Islands.