A Moroccan Surf Film

Filmed By Tyler Kemph

Surf and travel filmmaker Tyler Kemp shares, “What Feeling”, a video documentary centered around two Moroccan surfers, Wassim Tabti and Otman Goudali. The film follows the daily lives of Otman and Wassim as they us a glimpse into the surf culture of Morocco.

Tyler opens up about how the film was made, using outdated equipment, and prioritizing the experience of life.

Essaouira, Morroco

You are sharing your surf film, “Whatta Feeling”. What is it about?

Whatta feeling is the result of spending 4 weeks in the beautiful country of Morocco. Diving in deep to experience the culture, amazing waves, and all of the vibes. I had the pleasure of documenting the lifestyles of two local surfers from the coastal city of Essaouira. Wassim Tabti and Otman Goudali share what it's like to be part of the surf culture in Morocco and the value that surfing holds in their community and daily lives.

Take us through the process of creating this surf film.

I connected with Wassim and Otman through my Instagram page @surfnvibe 2 years ago. I would see their epic content from Morocco and I knew that I would have to meet them someday and see the surf culture for myself.

6 months ago I left my home in California, with a one-way flight to the other side of the world. I brought nothing but a backpack full of camera equipment and good vibes, seeking a grand adventure. I traveled around Europe and the Middle East, taking photos, hitchhiking, surfing, and meeting the coolest people. I was then in Istanbul thinking about where to travel next. I saw a $100 flight to Morocco & booked it immediately without hesitation.

I went to Morocco with no plan thinking I would only stay about a week. When I met Wassim and Otman, they took me in like a brother and we connected right away. That week turned into 4 weeks, full of the best memories, with the best people, with the best vibes.

What were some highlights you experienced?

So many… Moroccan culture is something special. From amazing food, the best mint tea in the world, cultural traditions, lively music, and the everyday relaxed lifestyles of the locals. Every moment was a highlight. Stress doesn't exist in Morocco. Just vibe.

What were some struggles you had while filming?

Before I arrived in Morocco, I had my $2k camera stolen a couple weeks before. I had a backup camera, an old Canon Rebel T5 and I knew I was going to have to make the most of it. I wasn't going to let my outdated camera equipment hold me back from capturing an amazing story.

Behind the lens in all the surf clips, I’m lying on jagged rocks trying to keep my camera as still as possible. I made the mistake of not bringing a tripod ahaha. Weirdly I found it fun as it made me super focused on getting the clips and it kept me in the present moment every second while filming.

What was it like working with Wassim Tabti and Otman Goudali?

Insane. Wassim and Otman treated me like a brother right away. Showing me around their city, and allowing me to learn so much about their culture and lifestyles. The surf community in their home of Essaouira is full of life and high energy. Every day is a beach day consisting of either surfing or kitesurfing. These guys are the essence of what it means to live a stress-free lifestyle. Prioritizing the experience of life. Catching waves, taking in the sun, regularly spending time with friends and family, and being grateful for every moment along the way.

How does “Whatta Feeling” show your growth as a filmmaker?

While I was producing the film, I wanted to slow down a bit more and show the raw and real moments. Doing this amplifies the film, and lets the viewer get a real sense of what the surf culture is like and what life is like for Wassim and Otman. I’m super stoked about how it turned out and am looking forward to making more in the future. Stay tuned!

What's next for you?

For the past 6 months, I’ve been living out of a backpack, traveling around 12 different countries, and I don't plan on stopping anytime soon. I’m heading back to Morocco in a few weeks and then plan on heading towards South East Asia. Chasing the sun, good surf, new cultures, and documenting the journey along the way.