It’s not often that I photograph something for the first time, and you have the feeling that you’ve already photographed it in some way. It was a real pleasure to spend a few days with the great friends from Vgan Chocolate in Norway during the Døds World Championships. The famous floating saunas in Oslo were our playground for the preshoot with the biggest stars of Dods (death diving champions) in front of the Oslo Opera House home of the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet. The next day they fought for the world title, and I was there to cover it all with my camera. The amazing atmosphere I enjoyed with one of the strangest sports I’ve ever photographed.
SMILE IT´S DØDS
The journey of Døds diving is one defined by laidback fun, characteristic style, benevolent humor, mind-blowing courage, creative innovation, and a strong sense of community. Continuously defying human limitations, it manages to encapture hearts and minds across the globe. At VGAN we see Døds diving as a perfect match for us, and perfectly aligned with our values and approach to life.
THE ESSENCE OF DØDS DIVING
Drenched in history dating back to the 1970s at Oslo’s Frognerbadet pool complex, Døds Diving carries a legacy of significance. Emerging from the 10-meter platform, it was first embraced by Erling Bruno Hovden, a guitarist for Raga Rockers. This enduring legacy comes alive each year through the esteemed Bruno Award, commemorating remarkable performances in classic Døds dives.
CLASSIC OR FREESTYLE
The world of Døds diving is divided into two captivating disciplines: Classic and Freestyle. In the Classic category, athletes glide horizontally, arms and legs fully extended, aiming for a pristine entry into the water sans rotations. As they curl into a protective fetal pose just before impact, divers employ strategies to minimize impact, all while showcasing skills assessed for speed, air time, complexity, and splash. On the other hand, Freestyle introduces daring tricks and spins mid-flight, contributing to the mesmerising allure of the sport.
THE EVOLUTION OF THE DØDS DIVING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
Hailing from Oslo, Norway in 2008, the Døds Diving World Championship unveiled competitive death diving to the world. What began as a local phenomenon has morphed into a global sensation, luring daredevils from every corner of the globe.