Being a surf website rather than a surf magazine has its distinct advantages. Timeliness is one: we can get news stories up as soon as they happen, pretty much. Video is also key: we can turn your computer screen into mini surf TV station, providing hours of distraction while you're hard at, uh...work. Interactivity is another: we set everything up so you can navigate to what interests you, rather than having to plow through a bunch of useless pages.

But one thing the mags have always done well is showcase photos. Big, clean, double-page spreads have been the staple of surf mags since Severson started SURFER back in the '60s. Meanwhile, websites have struggled with tiny little pixilated images -- enough to get the point across, sure, but nowhere near the impact of an in-your-face, full-bleed shot of Bruce Irons, or a spread of empty Tavarua. But with our new Surfline Portfolio Series, we're hoping to change all that.

Our design team has been under the digital hood for months now, tinkering with different methods of showcasing shots from the world's best surf photographers, trying to balance functionality, usability, and pure stoke. And finally, we think we've got it.

The first thing you'll notice is the shots themselves: near-full-screen, super-high resolution -- not to mention insane -- surf photos. The captions are what really set it off, though, 'cause the photographer talks you through each shot, in his own voice, like you were sharing beers during a slideshow at his house. Also, you have the option of just playing the thing from start to finish, without touching a button -- or clicking on specific shots. Up to you, 'cause now you're in the driver's seat. Buckle up and enjoy.

--Marcus Sanders

SEE TOM SERVAIS' PORTFOLIO

VISIT TOM SERVAIS' WEBSITE

Tom's work will be showcased in an upcoming edition of the "Masters of Surf Photography" book series by The Surfer's Journal, on sale in September.