Photographer Ed Templeton discovered one of Europe's most unique urban surfing scenes during a spontaneous visit to Munich's Englischer Garten, capturing what he describes as a "methodical and mesmerizing" display of athletic skill and community spirit. After waking up in Zurich, Switzerland, and taking a train to Germany that same day, Templeton found himself drawn to the famous artificial wave on the Eisbach River.

The Englischer Garten, one of Europe's largest urban parks, serves as home to the Eisbach's renowned artificial wave, where surfers have developed their own unwritten code of conduct based on mutual respect. "The surfers follow unwritten rules based on respect that are fascinating to watch," Templeton explained. "They line up on either side of the river and take turns. When one surfer falls off the wave and is swept away in the current, another jumps on, and everyone cheers each other on."

The technical challenge of river surfing in such a confined space impressed Templeton, who observed the incredible skill required for the sport. "It takes great skill to jump from the wall into the wave, and maneuver back and forth in such a narrow space," he noted. The coordinated nature of the surfing community created what he described as a methodical and quite mesmerizing spectacle.

To capture his photograph, Templeton positioned himself on a bridge overlooking the scene, finding the elevated perspective necessary due to crowded conditions below. While the riverbanks create a natural amphitheater perfect for viewing, the popularity of the spot means finding an open viewing space can be challenging. Despite the crowds, Templeton was struck by the peaceful atmosphere, describing how "the spectators are very quiet, mostly watching in awe, so it's quite peaceful and relaxing to find a perch in the shady forest."

Templeton's approach to mobile photography embraces creative freedom and post-processing techniques. "I have no rules for iPhone shots," he stated. "Cropping, jacking up the colors – it's all fair game!" This philosophy allowed him to enhance the visual impact of the scene he witnessed.

The photographer's Munich experience was cut short by changing weather conditions the following day. He had planned to return to the park for a swim and potentially experience the wave himself, but "the sun had been replaced with pouring rain." Reflecting on the missed opportunity, Templeton expressed regret about not being able to participate in the activity he had documented. "We never got a chance to get in the water," he said. "I felt as if I missed out on a great experience, so I hope I'll get to return one day."