French photographer Jerome Brouillet took a famous photo of the 2024 Olympics, capturing Brazilian surfer Gabriel Medina in the air making a No. 1 sign. Brouillet was surprised by how popular the photo became but explained that taking great surfing photos in Tahiti depends on good conditions and some luck. His editor quickly recognized the photo’s importance and shared it online, which made it go viral. Brouillet has lived in Tahiti for ten years and knows the area well. Even though he surfs, he feels safer taking pictures from the media boat instead of facing the dangerous waves.
Brazil's Gabriel Medina reacts after getting a large wave at the men's Olympic surfing event in Tahiti.