Growing up in Chicago doesn't exactly lend itself to an early career in surfing, but for photographer Liz Lantz, it certainly fostered an eye for great photographs.

“My favorite subjects to shoot are those that are less obvious - meaning things that people might not normally think to take a picture of," says the West Coast transplant, who now calls San Diego home. It's that keen perspective that's allowed her to reel in some of the most up-close and personal shots this side of the Pacific–an openness to the culture that few other photographers are afforded on the these same beaches. Her current self-guided project, dubbed “Sirens,” takes on the waves and females who dominate them.

What drew you to San Diego and what current projects do you have going on there?
Sun and surf brought me here. I was born and raised in Chicago and started surfing on Lake Michigan around 2003. The inconsistent wind swells and freezing water temps just didn't cut it after a while. I fell in love with a like-minded fellow and we ran off to live here in 2007. I have a few ideas for 2011, including continuing work on "Sirens" and making work about Mexican culture to get a better understanding of my family's roots.

What surf trick would you like to learn next?
I am dying to learn how to hang on the nose– five and ten. I've only truly hung ten once– got hoots from strangers in the line-up!

Which areas have been your favorite to shoot so far?
I went to the south of France in November; the light is beautiful all day long. I think I could spend months shooting there and never get bored. I have two favorite beaches to shoot– San O, because of the cliffs, history and scenery and Miami Beach for the hilarious people watching and surreal white sand.

Do you have a special ritual for getting ready to surf or shoot your photos?
I like to make a nice cup of tea or coffee to take on the road with me when I head out in the morning for a shoot; there's something really comforting about sipping that as I look for my next picture. Before I surf, I always give myself a good stretch. If the waves are bigger than I'd like, I take a moment to remind myself about the scary situations I've survived so I don't get too freaked out.

So what time of day is your favorite time to shoot?
Any time the sun is low in the sky: early morning or late afternoon. I think a lot of the photographs I make in the morning are more successful than those made in the evening, probably because I haven't had the chance to fill my mind with the daily grind. I also love shooting any time the sun peeks in and out from behind clouds. It's challenging and inspiring to work with the changing light.

If you could go on your dream vacation tomorrow, where would you go and what would you do?
I would go to Morocco with my husband to surf, make photos, play music, and shop around the markets for interesting finds - especially spices! I love to cook.

What are your favorite subjects to shoot and why?
My favorite subjects to shoot are those that are less obvious. One of my biggest influences is William Eggleston– his photographs taught me that everything around us is worth a second look.