Anthony Claravall, a name synonymous with skateboarding cinematography, has spent over two decades capturing the essence of skateboarding culture globally. Unlike most skate filmers, Anthony’s journeys don’t end when the trip does; for over a decade, he didn’t have a permanent address, choosing instead a nomadic life chasing the best skate spots. This article delves into the life of this 47-year-old skateboard filmer, exploring his motivations, struggles, and what keeps him on the road, offering insights into a life dedicated to skateboarding.
Anthony Claravall filming skateboarding
Life on the Go: Bags, Stashes, and Skateboarding
Anthony’s life has been a continuous journey since 2004 when he moved out of his San Francisco apartment and didn’t have a permanent lease until 2016. Even with his current role managing New Balance Numeric in Asia, he’s on a plane every week. This constant movement has led him to create a network of “stashes” – places at friends’ homes in cities like Hong Kong, Bangkok, Barcelona, and New York where he keeps essential gear like shoes, boards, and clothes.
“I would just have a pack of white T’s, a pack of wheels, bearings, shoes, and a board. That’s all I need.”
This minimalist approach has been key to his lifestyle, allowing him to move freely and focus solely on skateboarding.
The Hustle and Broke Days of Early Filming
Anthony’s early days of filming weren’t glamorous. When he started with 411VM, he earned just $83 per issue, which was released every two months, forcing him to live off dollar menus for years. To supplement his income, he’d sell free skate products he received as a filmer.
Anthony Claravall selling skate goods
He developed an entrepreneurial mindset, buying and selling gear in different markets, knowing what was in demand in each location. For example, he would save up boards and products and sell them in Brazil. He even sold the shoes off his feet at MACBA to keep going. His resourcefulness is a testament to his commitment to his craft and the skateboard lifestyle.
“Someone at MACBA would come up to you and be like, ‘What about those shoes?’ So I’ve literally sold the shoes off my feet and skated back to the crib in socks.”
The Global Nomad: From New York to the World
Anthony’s nomadic tendencies started in childhood. Born to Filipino parents in New York, his family moved frequently due to his father’s job with Pepsi. He lived in Mexico City, London, and Malaysia. This constant movement ingrained a love for travel and exploration. After graduating high school, the desire to travel resurfaced when he started working in skateboarding and filming, leading him to take every opportunity to travel.
Anthony Claravall in a skate spot
He realized that the world was open to him as long as he was open to the journey. He took the leap, writing proposals to 411VM to fund trips, such as a European filming mission which required just a rail pass. He leveraged his resourcefulness and drive, setting the stage for his long and enduring career.
From 411VM to Global Skate Guide
Initially, Anthony worked with 411VM, a major skateboard media outlet of its time. He was eventually offered an American Express Gold Card for travel, along with benefits like health insurance. However, the media landscape changed, and the outlet ultimately faded away. Despite this, Anthony’s passion for filming continued, leading him to work with different companies. He initially became known as the “Barcelona dude,” and later the go-to “Asia guy.”
Anthony Claravall filming in Barcelona
Discovering Barcelona and Asia as Skate Meccas
In 1999, Anthony visited Barcelona on a skate trip with photographer Joe Brook. They discovered MACBA completely unskated, and created their own maps of spots for other skaters to use, which quickly became highly sought-after.
In 2002, a trip to Asia opened Anthony’s eyes to the potential of China and other Asian countries as skate destinations. His enthusiastic reports encouraged skaters to film parts in China, making it a staple in skateboarding videos. His unique perspective and knowledge of global skate spots is a vital part of his continued success.
A Filmer’s Perspective: More Than Just Pushing Record
While Anthony recognizes others such as RB Umali and Greg Hunt have been filming for as long or longer, he differentiates himself as someone who loves the simple act of filming, rather than being a filmmaker who produces. However, his 2009 LRG video, Give Me My Money, Chico, made him feel he was finally catching up to his peers in terms of broader video creation.
Anthony Claravall filming a skateboarder
Anthony stresses that successful filming is about matching a skater’s energy and being professional without applying pressure. It’s also about being intuitive, understanding the skater’s needs, and doing whatever is necessary to support them, such as finding spots or making sure they’re taken care of after long sessions.
“The secret to filming is to make it seem like you’re not filming.”
He notes that this approach is becoming less common as more skaters film with multiple cameras, drones, or their iPhones.
The Claravall Butters: A Pre-iPhone Era Story
During the VHS era, Anthony became known for making “Claravall Butters,” which were porn compilations on VHS tapes. These compilations were shared among fellow skaters before the advent of iPhones and easy access to online content. This anecdote reflects the resourcefulness and unique culture of the skateboarding community during that time.
Anthony Claravall and other skaters
Film vs. Digital: It’s All About How You Use It
Anthony doesn’t see much difference between film and digital. While film has its unique process, the end result is often viewed on a small screen, like an iPhone, just like digital. For him, it’s how the tools are used that matter, rather than the technology itself. However, he admits the VX1000 camera has a special place in skateboarding history, noting the 4:3 aspect ratio and fisheye lens flatter the human body.
Anthony Claravall with a camera
The Future: A Solo Journey and One Last Destination
Anthony’s dream is to die alone and values his independence. He likes the freedom to travel on a whim without commitments. For now, his travels continue, with just one destination on his list: Cuba.
Anthony Claravall’s story is one of passion, dedication, and a unique perspective on life through the lens of skateboarding. His journey is an inspiration, showcasing how a commitment to what you love can create a life rich with experience and adventure.
