Teahupo’o, a village located on Tahiti’s southeastern coast, boasts a shallow and precipitous coral reef system that creates a unique surf break, resulting in some of the largest waves on Earth. These powerful, barreling surges draw in surfers from around the world, including photographer Tim McKenna.

From a young age, McKenna surfed on the west coasts of France and later Australia. He’s deeply fascinated by the power of the ocean and its constant mood changes from serene ripples to towering swells. The photographer began documenting waves as he rode in their heaving movements and eventually settled in Teahupo’o, where he’s lived for more than 20 years.

Find more on McKenna’s website and Instagram. (via Kottke)