one of few shots that actually shows some wave size, why is it that photography usually makes everything look flat like a putting green

I think I like this one the best. Great shot Randy! @Kus - Its a frustration to us too!

Its because our survival instincts have created a conspiracy between our eyes and brains, and it looks bigger and scarier than it really is. Actually, while there may be some truth to that, especially for newbies, I'm sure its just the increadibly dynamic environment; the chances of the sailor being at the bottom of the trough while the wave max peaks and the photographer is pointing the camera the right way and with the finger on the shutter button are tiny, even in huge conditions.

I think it was one of them rhetorical questions

A what question