Throughout the summer and fall of 2024, photographer Sébastien Blanquet-Rivière immersed himself in the daily lives of lifeguards along France's Atlantic coast, capturing their work and dedication in a compelling photo series. The first collection of these photographs is currently on display at Horizon Beach in Cap Ferret, offering viewers an intimate glimpse into the world of beach safety.
Blanquet-Rivière, who is as discreet and quiet as his photographs are intense, discovered that these qualities were fundamental to accurately documenting the activities and spirit of the lifeguards who watch over nearly 200 beaches from Le Verdon to Hendaye. His journey into this world began in 2022 when the platform sauveteur-aquatique.fr, which connects coastal communities in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region with lifeguard candidates, approached him to document the annual selections at the beginning of spring.
"That's where the idea came to me: an immersion into the world of lifeguards across different rescue stations to better introduce this population that the general public often only hears about during tragic incidents," explained Blanquet-Rivière, who works in communications for the Regional Council and produces "Le Mag" for the organization. The photographer was not previously familiar with the lifeguarding community before this initial assignment.
Dedicated to the project, Blanquet-Rivière spent his vacation time and free hours sharing the lifeguards' daily routines, spending one to three days at various locations. "I told them: 'I am your shadow,'" he said, describing his approach to gaining their trust and acceptance. Armed with authorization from Sivu33, the intercommunal syndicate that manages beach surveillance in Gironde, he traveled in his van to document their work.
His first stop was in Vendays, where he began his careful documentation process. Equipped with his 24-70mm lens, Blanquet-Rivière worked to gain acceptance from the lifeguards while maintaining a discreet presence that allowed him to capture authentic moments. His approach focused on staying close to the action while remaining unobtrusive, enabling him to document the true essence of their professional lives.
The resulting photographs reveal the intensity and dedication of these coastal guardians who are responsible for public safety across the extensive Atlantic shoreline. The exhibition at Cap Ferret's Horizon Beach will continue through the end of the current season, providing beachgoers and art enthusiasts with an opportunity to appreciate both the artistic merit of the work and gain deeper understanding of the lifeguarding profession.
